Last reviewed: 2026-04-18 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, NRA-certified firearms instructor.
Chambered in 380 ACP, the Underwood Platinum Edition Xtreme Defender delivers a fluted solid copper projectile that drives deep and cuts wide without relying on expansion. At 68 grains and 1300 feet per second, this self-defense round achieves 255 foot-pounds of muzzle energy and up to 18 inches of penetration—within FBI protocol—while carving a permanent wound cavity that outpaces traditional hollowpoints in total volume. Underwood ammunition is a specialized line engineered for concealed carry and backup gun applications, tested in real-world firearms and loaded to SAAMI-plus pressures for maximum velocity from short barrels.
Built for the Box
Underwood sources the Lehigh Xtreme Defense projectile, a monolithic copper bullet with radial flutes that force tissue fluid inward, build hydraulic pressure, and expel it outward to create wound channels without mushrooming. The fluted geometry maintains full-diameter penetration through intermediate barriers—wallboard, sheet metal, automotive glass—without the projectile deforming or shedding mass. A proprietary coating improves corrosion resistance, prevents verdigris on stored rounds, and reduces friction during feeding and chambering. Nickel-plated brass cases resist tarnish, feed smoothly in all actions, and remain reloadable with boxer primers. Flash-suppressed powder preserves low-light vision if you fire in dim environments. Each 20-round box ships at 0.380 pounds and is DOT-regulated as ORM-D.
Performance at a Glance
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 380 ACP |
| Bullet weight | 68 grains |
| Bullet type | Fluted solid copper (Lehigh Xtreme Defense) |
| Muzzle velocity | 1300 fps |
| Muzzle energy | 255 ft-lbs |
| Rounds/box | 20 |
| Case | Nickel-plated brass |
| Primer | Boxer |
| Corrosive | No |
| Lead free | Yes |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| Intended use | Self defense |
| Country of origin | United States |
The 68-grain bullet runs supersonic and pairs with micro-compact 380 platforms that benefit from reduced recoil and fast follow-up splits. If you carry a Ruger LCP II, SIG P238, or Glock 42, this load cycles reliably and delivers FBI-minimum penetration without over-penetration risk in thin-walled residential construction. Browse the full 380 ammo catalog for jacketed hollowpoint and range ball options.
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: treat every firearm as loaded, never point at anything you are not willing to destroy, keep your finger off the trigger until sights are on target, and know your target and what lies beyond it.
- Verify that your state and local jurisdiction permits the purchase and possession of lead-free monolithic ammunition for self-defense use.
- Store ammunition away from heat, moisture, and solvents; nickel-plated cases resist tarnish but remain sensitive to temperature extremes.
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