Last reviewed: 2026-04-18 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, NRA-certified firearms instructor.
The Underwood 40 S&W 180 grain Nosler Sporting Handgun jacketed hollow point delivers 1100 feet per second and 484 foot-pounds of muzzle energy — a mid-weight projectile designed for self-defense carry in compact and full-size 40 S&W platforms. The Nosler Sporting Handgun bullet features a tapered copper-alloy jacket and form-fitted lead core, engineered to expand reliably across a broad velocity window while retaining 95+ percent of its mass. Flash-suppressed powder preserves low-light vision; boxer-primed nickel-plated brass cases reload cleanly. Each round is hand-inspected before packaging. Underwood loads to published specifications using temperature-stable propellants — expect consistent velocities across seasonal temperature swings and minimal velocity loss in short-barrel pistols.
Performance at a Glance
The 180 grain weight sits at the heavier end of the 40 S&W spectrum, trading a small velocity penalty for increased sectional density and penetration depth. At 1100 fps, this load generates approximately 12–14 inches of penetration in calibrated 10% ballistic gelatin when fired through four layers of heavy denim — meeting FBI protocol minimums while delivering a frontal diameter of .60–.65 inches after expansion. The bonded core resists fragmentation when striking intermediate barriers such as automotive glass or plywood, maintaining a cohesive wound channel. Recoil impulse is moderate — manageable in polymer-frame compacts and notably soft in full-size steel-frame pistols.
Specs at a Glance
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 40 S&W |
| Bullet weight | 180 grains |
| Bullet type | Jacketed Hollow Point |
| Bullet brand | Nosler Sporting Handgun |
| Muzzle velocity | 1100 fps |
| Muzzle energy | 484 ft-lbs |
| Rounds per box | 20 |
| Case | Nickel-plated brass |
| Primer | Boxer |
| Corrosive | No |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| Lead-free | No |
| Intended use | Self Defense |
| Country of origin | United States |
| Manufacturer | Underwood Ammunition |
This load pairs well with Glock 22/23, SIG P229, Smith & Wesson M&P40, Springfield XD, and H&K USP platforms — all documented to cycle reliably with 180 grain projectiles. For additional 40 cal ammo options, including lighter 155/165 grain loads or heavier 200 grain subsonic rounds, browse our full catalog.
Safe Handling & Compliance
Federal law requires purchasers to be at least 21 years old 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.
- Observe the four rules of firearms safety — treat every firearm as loaded, never point at anything you’re not willing to destroy, finger off trigger until sights are on target, know your target and what lies beyond.
- Verify current state and local ammunition laws before ordering — some jurisdictions restrict hollow-point ammunition for civilian possession.
- This ammunition contains lead. Wash hands after handling; avoid ingestion. Pregnant women and children should avoid exposure. California Proposition 65 warning applies.
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