When 9mm ammunition is limited you may be curious about what you can do if you still need rounds. Whether your intention is self-defense, hunting, or you simply want time at the shooting range, you need an alternative that will give you similar results. Below are a few considerations.

4 Replacements for 9mm

1. The .38 Special

When 9mm ammunition is low, you can rely on .38 Special rounds to still be there. Even though it’s for .38 revolvers, it is a reliable, effective round that comes in a concealable handgun that has a long history as the weapon of choice for recreational and professional shooters. .38 specials use a mild recoil, low-pressure round, and they have a compact design and short barrel that make them great for self-defense. The round is similar in size to the 9mm, and the grain sizes range from 110 to 158.

2. The .40 S&W

Designed as a joint effort between Smith & Wesson and Winchester, the .40 S&W uses a rimless pistol cartridge initially developed for law enforcement. Its .40 inch, or 10mm, bullets range from 105 to 200 grains. Since police no longer use it, the ammunition is much easier to find.

It can be used in self-defense and comes in a concealable, subcompact variant. However for those who shoot at the range regularly, avoid using the subcompact version for extended periods of time since this will be hard on your wrist and hands due to the large round being used in a smaller firearm.

3. The .38 Super

Originating during Prohibition, the .38 Super is somewhere in size between the 9mm and the .357 Magnum, which means it offers significant power with less recoil since it’s a lighter round. The grain size can be as light as 115 grains. It isn’t ideal for hunting, but it does deliver enough kick for ranges and self-defense.

4. The .357 Magnum

Developed in the late ‘20s, the .357 Magnum was an outdoorsman variant of a .38 Special. The rounds came with thicker case walls and the firearm was only offered as a full-size revolver by Smith & Wesson. Remington then stepped in to make the current version, which features a longer cartridge that couldn’t be used in .38 special revolvers.

Smith and Wesson eventually made the Registered Magnum so it would fit the ammunition properly. The ammunition loads are 125 grain and 158 grain, and the rounds offer a significant amount of power, making them a top choice for hunting and self defense.

When you need ammunition in the Kentucky Tri-State area, trust Glauber’s Sports. Since 1863, the family-owned gun shop has been a top choice for everything from guns and crossbows to apparel and hunting accessories. With more than 1,000 guns in their inventory and one of the widest selections of archery equipment, their trained staff is certified in at least one area of shooting sports as well as repairs and store products. Call (502) 732-4005 for more information or visit them online to view their stock.