The Glock 43 and other single-stack “micro” 9mm handguns are all the rage, and for good reason. They are small, concealable, and pack a pretty good punch all things considered. Even our own James Reeves loves his Kahr handguns and yours truly typically carries a 9mm Glock 43 on a daily basis.

However, selecting an ammunition that will perform well can be tricky. Most defensive ammunition is designed for usage in 4″ barrels or longer (for reference, a Glock 19 is 4″). Anything slower, and one runs the risk of the ammunition not having sufficient velocity to expand upon impact, which can quickly lead to over-penetration. Often, shooters will select a +P round to get that extra velocity, but with a micro 9mm, that can lead to some relatively severe recoil, muzzle blast, and muzzle flip.

Knowing the fondness for micro 9mm handguns, Federal Premium ammunition developed an HST loading specifically for the micro 9’s. The powder charge was matched to the typical barrel length of about 3″. By doing so and using a heavy-for-caliber 150 grain projectile, the load can be a capable performer without all the detriments of the +P.

TNOutdoors9, a great bullet testing channel, go its hands on a set of the new 150 grain loading and put it to the test versus its own self, albeit in standard pressure 147 grain and +P 147 grain loadings. The Micro loading performs well, with sufficient penetration and reduction in both blast and flip. But, it comes at a cost, nearly twice that of the standard ammunition.

Enjoy the video below and make sure to always test your daily carry ammunition with your chosen firearm. While your own gel block test is overkill, know your velocity is sufficient to get reliable expansion.