Last reviewed: 2026-04-17 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, NRA-certified firearms instructor.
Federal Personal Defense Reduced Recoil 380 ACP ammo delivers a 90-grain Hydra-Shok jacketed hollow point at 1000 feet per second and 200 foot-pounds of muzzle energy — a load engineered for pocket pistols, micro-compacts, and concealed-carry platforms where recoil management and reliable expansion converge. The 380 ACP (also known as 9mm Kurz or 9×17mm) has served defensive roles for over a century, and this reduced-recoil variant tailors the Hydra-Shok’s center-post hollow point to the snappy blowback actions common in sub-compact pistols. You’re getting controlled felt recoil, consistent feeding, and a bullet designed to expand across barriers encountered in real-world defensive scenarios.
Performance at a Glance
Federal chambers this load in nickel-plated brass with non-corrosive Boxer primers — cases that feed smoothly, extract cleanly, and reload without issue. The Hydra-Shok bullet features a center post that drives uniform expansion and a notched jacket that peels back on impact. At 1000 fps, the 90-grain projectile sits in the middle of the 380 velocity spectrum — faster than subsonic training loads, softer than hot +P equivalents (which do not formally exist for 380 ACP). Federal manufactures this ammunition in the United States.
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 380 ACP |
| Bullet weight | 90 grains |
| Bullet type | Hydra-Shok Jacketed Hollow Point |
| Muzzle velocity | 1000 fps |
| Muzzle energy | 200 ft-lbs |
| Rounds per box | 20 |
| Case | Nickel-plated brass |
| Primer | Boxer, non-corrosive |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| Intended use | Self-defense |
| Manufacturer | Federal Premium |
This load chambers reliably in Glock 42, Ruger LCP II, Sig Sauer P238, Bersa Thunder, Kel-Tec P-3AT, Smith & Wesson Bodyguard, and similar pocket pistols. Each box contains 20 rounds. For range training and function testing, pair this with Federal’s 380 ACP FMJ loads at similar velocities — then reserve the Hydra-Shok for carry magazines.
Safe Handling & Compliance
Federal law requires purchasers to be at least 18 years old for rifle and shotgun ammunition, and at least 21 for handgun ammunition. Ammunition cannot be shipped to certain states, counties, and cities — review our ammunition shipping restrictions before ordering. Store ammunition in a cool, dry location away from heat sources and out of reach of unauthorized users.
- Treat every firearm as if it is loaded; keep your finger off the trigger until ready to fire; never point the muzzle at anything you are not willing to destroy; be certain of your target and what lies beyond it.
- Verify current state and local laws governing ammunition purchases, possession, and use in your jurisdiction before ordering.
- This ammunition contains lead. Wash hands thoroughly after handling, avoid dry-sweeping indoor ranges, and follow California Proposition 65 guidelines if you reside in California.
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