how far will 9mm travel

The Concealed Carry Guy

How far will a pistol bullet travel.

One of the rules of safe gun handling is knowing your target and what’s beyond it. Limiting penetrating power is one of the reasons that self-defense ammo is normally a hollow point. You really don’t want your bullet going through the bad guy and into the next apartment.

So how far can a bullet travel? It turns out that in a test performed under optimum conditions and fired at a 40 degree up angle a 9mm bullet traveled 2405 yards. That’s a long way, 24 football fields.

In the real world.

I think that normally we are firing handguns at shoulder height and in a nearly level angle. This will greatly reduce the distance that bullet will travel although by one estimate that I found that could still be 300 yards. One ballistic table showed a 115 grain 9mm bullet drops 43 inches in 214 yards. Even the warning printed on the side of the box that 22 Long rifle bullets come in states they are dangerous up to 1 mile.

In the real world, it would be rare ( depending on where you are) for a shot to travel 300 yards without striking something. But This is why we must know what is behind our target if we miss, the first thing inline with that shot out to 300 yards could be hit.

Now that does not mean that you as a shooter have the ability to hit a target at 300 yards with your pistol. The U.S. army 9mm pistol manual list the effective useful range of the 9mm pistol as 50 meters. But the Army doesn’t consider the 9mm sidearm to be the main battle weapon. However Professional shooter Jerry Miculek has a video of himself making a 1000 yard shot with a 9mm handgun on a steel gong target. He hit it on the second shot. That’s amazing!

The vast majority of self-defense encounters will be between 3 and 10 yards. This is why most self-defense drills are done at 10 yards or less. Feel free to occasionally run your targets out to 25 or 50 yards if your range has space. It is fun and challenging to shoot at those distances. But in the real world if your adversary is 25 yards away it may be best just to get out of there if possible before it turns into an armed encounter.

Every bullet fired goes somewhere they don’t just vaporize. Re-watch your favorite action movie and during the gunfight scenes just try to imagine where all of those rounds that missed their intended target might have ended up.

Related questions.

Will a bullet go through a wall?

Will the bullet go through a wall? That depends on a couple of things. What caliber is the bullet and what is the wall made of? I was reading a book on self-defense last night. The author threw in a chapter on handguns. In that chapter, he states that most handgun bullets are stopped by light material surfaces such as walls and car bodies. WHAT! This guys research must com from action movies.

Unlike the movies, I have seen many bullets zing through a car door like butter and even the lowly 22 long rifle has no trouble going through a sheetrocked wall if it doesn’t hit a stud. In one test a 124 grain 9mm bullet penetrated 10 inches of wallboard stacked back to back. In fairness, I will admit his book was on unarmed self-defense (he should really stick to his strengths).

Back to our wall stopping bullets. A brick or stone wall will stop most handgun rounds but both of these materials tend to shatter when struck so repeated rounds in the same spot on the wall may allow one to pass through it. Bare concrete blocks will also shatter when struck.

A wooden wall would depend on how thick the interior face, the outside sheathing, and the siding are. Full metal jacket bullets would be far more likely to go through than a hollow point bullet due to the hollow point expanding and loss of energy.

Will a handgun bullet go through a metal door?

The average metal door is actually a hollow shell filled in most cases with insulation. It will not stop a handgun bullet but it will cause a hollow point bullet to expand and lose a lot of speed and expend much of its energy. A full metal jacket would be less affected by the door. The same effect would be expected from a heavy wooden exterior door. So if there is an enraged person with any gun on the other side of your door don’t stand at the door looking out the peephole.

Will a car protect you from a bullet?

As I mentioned above the sheet metal of a car body will not stop a bullet. If you find yourself in need of cover, say in a parking lot, a car is not great cover but it is good for concealment meaning you can hide behind a car body and stay out of sight. But a bullet can penetrate it. The very best cover from a car or truck would be positioning yourself with the engine block between you and the shooter. The heavy metal engine block can stop all but the largest caliber.

Is firing a handgun into the air dangerous?

We have all seen the celebratory gunfire on the news where happy people are firing their guns into the air. This begs the question are those bullets dangerous when they come back down. The bullets leave the barrel of the gun at high speed but slow down as they gain altitude at some point the can no longer climb and begin to fall back to earth. They will fall at terminal velocity that is much slower than the muzzle velocity they had when fired. these falling bullets can and do injure people if they are hit by them. There have also been fatalities reported although rare. All in all, it is not a good idea to fire guns into the air.

Recent Posts

Which Holster is better IWB or OWB

When it comes to carrying a concealed firearm,selecting the right holster is paramount. Two popular options in the holster market are the Inside-the-Waistband (IWB) and the Outside-the-Waistband...

Dry Fire The secret to accuracy

Dry fire training is practicing firearm handling, manipulation, and shooting without using live ammunition. In other words, it is the practice of going through the motions of discharging a firearm...

How Far Can a 9mm Bullet Travel?

• Recent Posts
• 10 Best Scopes for 22LR Squirrel Hunting in 2024 –Must-Read - March 28, 2024
• 5 Best Angled Foregrips for AR-15 (2024) Read This First - March 28, 2024
• 7 Best AR-15 Pistol Grips (2024 UPDATED) full guide - March 28, 2024
• Alfred Mendoza
• June 1, 2023

How fast do bullets travel? How far can they go? Our inner Curious George got us thinking. However, it’s more than just feeding your curiosity.  Knowing the distance that bullets can reach is actually vital, especially in safe gun handling. 

We started with the 9mm.  

So, how far can a 9mm bullet travel? Let’s all find out.

Table of Contents

• 1 The Effective Range of a 9mm Handgun
• 2.2 Barrel Length
• 3 How Far Will the 9mm Round Travel?
• 4.2 Velocity
• 5 So, What Distance Can a 9mm Bullet Travel?

The Effective Range of a 9mm Handgun

Different firearms and rounds have different ranges with a lot of variables to consider.

For example, the trajectory, weather, and wind speed are some of the things that contribute to the effective range of the firearm. 

The National Rifle Association says that 9mm is the most popular handgun. When you shoot a 9mm, the round will travel fast and far until it hits something.

At 45 degrees, the round of a 9mm handgun gives a maximum effective range of about 2,300 meters [1] .

What Affects It?

The range of the round does not just depend on the type of the gun but includes muzzle velocity. It is the speed of the projectile at the time a round leaves the barrel. Because of the very good ballistic coefficient of a 9mm handgun, the air resistance of an inflight round affects the parameter of the rounds.

The temperature of air also affects the span where the round could travel. Due to cold air, the handgun round may strike lower while hot loads let the round strike higher. In addition, consider the amount of gunpowder inside the rounds as fast powders can give a maximum range.

Read : What’s the Best 9mm Muzzle Brake?

Barrel Length

The length of the barrel in a typical handgun ranges from 4-5 inches. The size plays a vital role as it affects the effective range of 9mm. So what’s the best barrel length for a 9mm carbine? A longer barrel gives a lengthy time for the round to exit. It is far more effective because it buys you time to complete the powder burn before leaving the barrel. 

With this, you can maximize the powder power and give faster rounds maximum distance. If guns fire bullets in longer barrels, the space they can also reach increases. Though a longer barrel improves accuracy, it somehow may decrease the velocity of the round.

Related Posts:

• Number of Shells a Shotgun Can Hold
• Update on Slickguns
• Update on FPSRussia
• Legality of Using Binary Triggers
• Rimfire vs Centerfire

The effective range is also dependent on the gun that fires out the rounds. Since a 9mm is a semi-automatic pistol, it recycles the energy released by the combustion to move the bolt. Instead, it uses propellant gas to reload, and that gas came from the hole at the end of the barrel. 

Since there will be a lot of propelling gas, the shot power may be compromised. Check out our list of the best 9mm cleaning kits here . 

How Far Will the 9mm Round Travel?

A 9mm can travel up to 2,300 meters compared to at least 20 football fields. Some factors can define how far will a 9mm round will travel.

It can be the round type, the bullet weight, and the bullet shapes. 

There are rounds with target load powder that may help with the speed and reachable span.

The bullet weight and the form have something to do with its aerodynamics and barometric pressure, affecting the inflight round’s range.

Factors To Watch Out For

When bullets are released, it passes through thin air and creates friction with the case called drag. Because of this, the rounds slow down when in flight. Drag varies with the ballistic coefficients of the round. It can be checked using the size and shape of the rounds. If the shape of your handgun bullet is a spire nose, it creates less drag making the round of the gun faster.

The muzzle velocity of the rounds is at the box of the ammunition and ballistic stat sheets. The velocity is the measure of the speed of the projectile once it leaves the barrel. You can also notice that it will reach higher initial velocities when the explosion occurs, making the rounds faster. Bigger rounds with the same amount of powder may give below-average velocity.

Read: Hollow Point vs FMJ – What’s the Difference?

Guns are not at a perfectly level angle released but a small upward angle. Remember that when the round with higher pressure is traveling fast, it will not drop quickly. But, at the same time, faster rounds penetrate deeper.

So, What Distance Can a 9mm Bullet Travel?

With a velocity of 370 m/s and without any obstruction, a 9mm can travel at about 2,300 meters. Since this handgun is not a weapon capable of shooting at long range, the bullet will travel a distance enough for self-defense in the real world.  

The delivery system of this handgun made us realize that this round can travel far more than we can expect. Without actually trying and wasting rounds, we hope we were able to feed your curiosity.

References:

• https://www.sciencefocus.com/science/how-far-can-a-bullet-fired-from-a-handgun-travel

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

At  Lunde Studio , our primary goal is to provide a dedicated resource for all gun enthusiasts from all walks of life.

• Privacy Policy
• Amazon Disclaimer
• Legal Disclaimer
• Terms and Conditions
• AR-15/AR-10
• Accessories
• DIY Gunsmithing

9mm Ballistics Chart & Coefficient (Luger)

Article Posted: July 20, 2012

This is a 9mm Luger ballistics chart (external) generated using our ballistic trajectory calculator . It tracks the movement of the bullet in zero wind conditions, and out to 100 yards. If you want to go further or apply wind resistnece then use custom seetings with our ballistic calculator . All data based of a the assumption that the pistol has been zerod in at 25 yds, no scope is present, and the bullet being fired is a with a 124 gr, 9mm round, (in this example we used federal) with a bc (ballistic coeeficient of 0.149). This bullet moves 1120fps from the muzzle. If all of this is confusing, just disregard all that mumbo jumbo above.

The Ballistic Coefficient for the 9mm Luger (9mm Parabellum) (9x19mm), American Eagle (Federal) Full Metal Jacket, 124gr is 0.149 (in this example) but, but may also range from .130 bc to .156

This is a 9mm Luger ballistics chart (external) generated using our ballistic trajectory calculator. It tracks the movement of the bullet in zero wind conditions, and out to 100 yards. If you want to go further or apply wind resistance then use custom settings with our ballistic calculator. All data based of a the assumption that the pistol has been zeroed in at 25 yds., no scope is present, and the bullet being fired is a with a 124 gr, 9mm round, (in this example we used federal) with a bc (ballistic coefficient of 0.149). This bullet moves 1120fps from the muzzle. If all of this is confusing, just disregard all that mumbo jumbo above.

While the 1.8 in drop of the 9mm bullet at 50 yards may not sound bad, it all goes downhill from there. In fact at the 100 yard mark the bullet will have dropped -12.0311 in (over a foot). So if you are shooting at a target 100 yards away you need to aim a full foot above the target, and without a scope that is very hard to judge at that distance.

A A 9mm Luger American Eagle (Federal) FMJ, 124gr

Liked this? Try these too..

• Glock 17/19/26 Operating Procedures
• More 9mm Data
• 9mm Gun Reviews & Prices
• 308 Ballistics Chart & Coefficient
• 30-30 Ballistics Chart
• 7.62x39mm Ballistics Chart & Coefficient
• Ballistic Trajectory Calculator
• Convert FPS to MPH
• Ballistic Coefficient Calculator
• 5 Great Hunting Rifles Under $1,000

Related Articles

• Joe Biden Toilet Paper
• Bushcraft 101
• Best Ammo Boxes

Please like, share, favorite, bookmark, and comment. Thank You.

Bullet database.

• Pistol Wiki
• Shotgun Wiki
• Bullet Wiki
• Ballistic Calculator

Original Articles

• New 25+1 Capacity Shotgun!
• Hudson H9 American Made 9mm
• How To Build A Mud Hut
• Pistol Looks Like Cell Phone
• 45 ACP vs 9mm Luger
• Best 9mm Carbines
• Mall Ninja Xtreme Zombie Carbine!
• 5 Alternative Range Bags for Pistols
• Best 45 ACP Carbines
• 5 Dirt Cheap Guns $170 to $260
• Muslim Free Shooting Range?
• How To Clean A Rifle
• 3 Good 300 AAC Blackout Reviews
• Top 5 Guns for Women
• How to Really Shoot A Pistol
• Worlds Best 9mm Handgun
• 5 Great Gun Safes (Options)
• 9mm vs 40 S&W Summary + Ballistics
• Red Oak, White, or Chestnut for Deer Herd?
• Bullets for Barter Post Collapse
• Funny Pro Gun Sayings
• 5 Strange Handguns You Don't Need
• 3 Great .22LR / 410 Survival Rifles
• American Rifles | The Original ARs
• 600 Round Glock Magazine
• 10mm vs 40 Summary and Ballistics
• How Important is "Shot Placement"?
• 10 Item First Aid Kit Checklist
• 10 Gun Lights for Home Defense
• How to Make a Stove Hobo Style!
• Most Basic Survival Food List Ever
• Best Handguns for Women
• Make Homemade Mosquito Trap
• Lets make a Sawed-Off Shotgun!
• Man Brings Knife to Gun Fight (Funny)
• Gun Store Etiquette (Proper vs Improper)
• 10 Simple Home Security Tips
• SIG-Sauer vs Glock
• Legal Length of Shotguns and Rifles
• 9mm Pocket Pistols
• 10 Conceal Carry Tips (Funny)
• Understanding the 2nd Amendment
• Choose Your Own Crime Stats
• After You Dial 911 : Dont Be A Victim
• Does Gun Control Work?
• Best Shotgun Ammo for Self Defense
• Best Calibers for Self Defense
• FBI Handgun Ballistics
• 38 Special vs 380 ACP
• Top 5 Home Defense Handguns
• 5 Best Home Defense Shotguns
• How to Sight in a Scope - Step by Step Guide
• .380 ACPs Stopping Power (Funny)
• AK-47 vs AR-15 History and Facts
• A Bug Out Bag Checklist for 2015
• 30-06 vs. 270 Win

Ballistics Tools & Data

• 9mm Ballistics Chart
• 308 Ballistics Chart
• 30-06 Ballistics Chart
• .270 Win Ballistics Chart
• 7.62x39mm Ballistics Chart
• 7mm Rem Magnum Ballistics Chart
• 17 HMR Ballistics Chart
• 223 Ballistics Chart
• .243 Ballistics Chart
• 22-250 Ballistics Chart
• 7mm-08 Ballistics
• 10mm Ballistics
• 32 Winchester Special
• .327 Federal Magnum
• 45-70 Ballistics
• 17 Remington
• 9mm Parabellum
• 338 Lapua Ballistics
• 25-06 Ballistics
• 45 ACP Ballistics
• 284 Winchester

Complete Bullet Database

Random Guns Gallery

© Copyright GunData.org 2015  |  Koenig Media, LLC   |   Links   |   Sitemap   |   Advertise

• Subscribe to BBC Science Focus Magazine
• Previous Issues
• Future tech
• Everyday science
• Planet Earth
• Newsletters

How far can a bullet fired from a handgun travel?

Bang! If there was nothing obstructing a bullet, it would still fly a finite amount.

Gareth Mitchell

Asked by: John Sheridan, Ireland

A 9mm-calibre Luger Parabellum round fired from a handgun travels at about 370m/s. To optimise its range, it would be fired at an angle of 45° and should cover about 2,300 metres. Pistols are obviously not long-range weapons. But heavy artillery is capable of ranges in excess of 30,000 metres.

Subscribe to BBC Focus magazine for fascinating new Q&As every month and follow @sciencefocusQA on Twitter for your daily dose of fun science facts.

Share this article

• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy policy
• Cookies policy
• Code of conduct
• Magazine subscriptions
• Manage preferences

How Far Can a Bullet Travel?

By Berry's , Posted in Blogs February 28, 2023

How far can a bullet travel? How you answer that question depends on the bullet in question. For example, a .22 caliber bullet can travel around 1 mile to 1 1/2 miles. Some bullets, such as a 9 mm may travel up to three miles. Shot travels a shorter distance between 200 and 600 yards.

The maximum distance that a bullet can travel is dependent upon many factors.

Factors That Affect Bullet Range

There are so many types of bullets , and the shape of the bullet is a major factor in how effective the bullet is and how far, fast, and hard it travels. Bullet shape ranges from round muzzleloader balls to conical rounds of modern weapons to the shot fired from a shotgun.

Air resistance and environmental conditions are other factors that impact bullet range. If the humidity is high, there is more drag on the bullet. If the wind is blowing towards you or you fire into a crosswind, bullet performance is impacted.

Barrel length also impacts initial velocity, muzzle velocity, and impacts when a bullet reaches terminal velocity - the point where the air resistance balances with the accelerating force caused by gravity.

Bullet design and weight or grain - Heavier bullets vs. lightweight bullets. The shape of the bullet is also important with modern ammunition. Options include round-nosed, pointed, hollow point, modified hollow point, flat-nosed and other options. The shape of the bullet - tapered, boattail , etc. all impact how far a bullet will travel. These refer to the ballistic coefficient - the ability of a bullet to overcome air resistance.

Round compilation - total grain, type of powder, casing length, etc. also impact the velocity and energy that a bullet has, which impacts how far the bullet will travel.

Even the type of rounds - rimfire bullet vs. centerfire bullet can impact bullet performance and how far a bullet can travel.

Bullet weight is another issue with bullets - the grain weight of a bullet and the total grain weight of the round will both impact how the bullet performs and whether it will reach its intended target.

One of the most important factors that impacts how well or how far a bullet travels is "shooter technique". We talk about this a lot. If you are a shooter with bad shooting habits, then bullet performance will drop. If you are a shooter with excellent shooting techniques, then you eliminate many of the shooter-related issues that drop bullet performance.

As we said, there is a lot that goes into how a bullet performs. They are all important considerations whether you are looking for the perfect self-defense bullet or one that will be a champion on the range. How you choose your rounds and bullets are critical to how well the bullet matches your needs.

What is the Difference Between Maximum Range and Effective Range?

Maximum range is the total distance a bullet can travel. Effective range or maximum effective range is the farthest distance that you expect to hit your target with a bullet. While some bullets may travel upwards of two miles, can you expect to pick off a six-point buck from two miles away? You might have that expectation, but you are more likely to fail. Even if you managed to hit the buck two miles away, how much damage would the bullet do? It is probably not traveling very fast and has lost most of its energy. Plink!

When we think about the effective maximum range, we must also consider the effect the bullet will or can have at that range. Whether you are talking about a close quarter, self-defense situation where a longer barrel length is not possible or a hunting opportunity where the game animals are distant, or a qualifying shot at a competition the outcome of the shot matters. It is also why all the factors that impact how far a bullet will travel become so important.

As you begin to understand the environment where you will shoot and the natural forces - wind, humidity, rain, etc., - you may experience you can begin to reach for ammo that helps to counter those forces, and doing so begins to improve the maximum range and the effective range of each shot.

How Far Can a Centerfire Bullet Travel?

9mm - 2-3 miles, but the effective range drops off around 150 yards or 450 feet for a rifle and around 50 yards for a pistol. 380 - significantly shorter than a 9 mm bullet. The .380 bullet is considered a low-powered, low muzzle velocity handgun round with an effective range of 50 feet and a more accurate range of around 25 feet. Its effective range varies based on barrel length, but you can expect a spread of 7-10 yards for its effective range. 5.56/.223 - .85 miles - not quite a full mile - The effective range is 400-500 yards or 1,500 feet.

308 - around 3.5 miles maybe longer under more favorable conditions. The effective range for a .308 bullet is around 800 meters (according to the US Army ) which equates to about 2,624 feet.

How Far Can a .22 Bullet Travel?

A .22 caliber bullet can travel 1.13 miles or about 2,000 yards. It has an effective range, though, of only 300 yards. The result will depend on the factors that we've discussed. The weather has a big impact on a .22 bullet. The size of the bullet makes it light, and lighter objects are more greatly impacted by wind. They also have less mass making other natural forces such as humidity or rain a problem. What you fire the bullet from is another issue. A .22 rifle will have a greater effective range than a .22 pistol. the shape of the bullet, type of powder, length of casing, and other manufacturing criteria will also impact the performance of the bullet.

An important lesson here though is shooting safety. A .22 bullet can travel 1.3 miles under ideal conditions. That means a missed shot has a lot of potential for doing unintended damage. Even with a lower muzzle velocity a missed shot can be dangerous. Celebratory gunfire is an example of a shooting activity that can have unexpected consequences. For that reason, it is important to make sure that targets are backed by proper material and that a missed shot is not going to do damage to the wrong target.

The Berry’s Bullets Difference

Berry's Manufacturing has been an honest producer of quality bullets since 1961. As a family-owned business, Berry's remains small enough to keep honesty and exacting standards at the core of every bullet they manufacture.

With that much history of manufacturing and selling bullets, Berry's has a deep understanding of the needs and requirements of shooters, regardless of their target. In addition, Berry's remains committed to home manufacturing so that access to rounds is never dependent upon supply chains and logistics.

Berry's stocks a wide range of products that are designed to fit into the lifestyle of anyone who wants to load their own rounds. Quality, superior bullets are just the tip of the iceberg. With the wide array of components available at Berry's, you can create the type of rounds that meet your shooting needs. From the bullet that flies the farthest to the bullet that has a flat trajectory and amazing impact, there is a perfect round for your needs.

Our Differentiators and Offerings

Knowledge is perhaps the greatest asset of working with Berry's. It is the knowledge of shooting and bullet design that allows Berry's to manufacture bullets that meet the exacting specification of world organizations and the demands of people who love shooting.

Knowledge is a differentiator, and it means quality parts and components for those who like to build their own ammo. We discussed early the options of being able to select a round that meets the needs or goals of a shooter. That knowledge not only extends to the products that Berry's manufactures, but also to each of the products that we stock on our shelves.

Every day, the professionals at we are faced with questions about bullet performance, accuracy, and reloading. People want to know how to make faster bullets, bullets with higher velocity, bullets that travel at a longer distance, and questions about the ratio of bullet travel and impact.

Our customers are shooters, those who love target practice as a hobby and a sport, hunters, law enforcement, and those who are concerned about self-defense.

Berry's offers a wide selection of bullets and reloading supplies . We also offer knowledge. 

You May Also Be Interested In...

How Far Can A Bullet Travel?

Guns pack a lot of energy into a tiny area, meaning the bullets they shoot move fast and go far until they hit something. If that something is Teddy Roosevelt, business will carry on as usual, but generally, being on the receiving end of a bullet is bad news. 

Just how far can a bullet travel once the trigger is pulled? It will depend on what you're shooting with. 

Here's how far different bullets can travel

Each different firearm and bullet will have a different range, with tons of other variables including weather, windspeed, the trajectory, and so on. For the sake of consistency, we're going to assume that you are aiming for max distance with whatever gun and bullet you choose, and that you've chosen a fairly standard shooting apparatus. According to the  National Rifle Association , if you're going for distance, the optimal angle of elevation is around 30 degrees from horizontal. 

The NRA says that for a 9 mm handgun, the most popular handgun according to  Guns.com , a bullet will travel up to 2,130 yards, or about 1.2 miles. For a Colt .45, the next most popular handgun, you're looking at about 1,850 yards, which is just about 1 mile. 

Of course, handguns aren't long-distance firearms. Rifles are built to be more accurate from greater distances. The notorious AR-15 rifle is the most popular, according to the NRA, and its maximum range is around 3,840 yards, or 2.2 miles. Bear in mind, those of you with dreams of long-distance hunting, that maximum range is far from effective range, so the odds of hitting a target at that distance are slim. 

If you're wondering what the maximum distance is that a gun has ever been used effectively,  BBC  says it's 3,870 yards, just over 2.2 miles. A Canadian special forces  sniper  made the shot in Iraq in 2017, killing an Islamic State militant.

So there you have it. Since the NRA has done the math, you don't have to. Please remember that guns should be handled with extreme care and proper training, and that gun ownership and use should be taken very seriously.

The Enlightened Mindset

Exploring the World of Knowledge and Understanding

Welcome to the world's first fully AI generated website!

How Far Does a 9mm Bullet Travel? Exploring Its Range, Accuracy, and Physics

By Happy Sharer

Introduction

Many gun owners and shooting enthusiasts often overlook an important aspect of firearm use: knowing how far bullets travel. While bullets are designed to hit targets, they can also travel a considerable distance, posing a threat to unintended targets. This is especially true for 9mm ammunition, one of the most popular cartridges for firearms in the world. In this article, we’ll explore the range, accuracy, and physics behind the 9mm bullet to help you understand how far it travels and select the right ammo for your needs.

History and development of 9mm ammunition

The 9mm cartridge was first introduced in the early 1900s by German arms manufacturer DWM. It was designed to replace the outdated 7.65mm round used by the German military at the time. Its smaller size, lighter weight, and increased muzzle velocity made it a more efficient and effective cartridge for modern firearms.

Today, 9mm ammunition is used by military, law enforcement, and civilian shooters alike. The bullet typically consists of a lead core encased in a copper jacket. The weight of a 9mm bullet ranges from 115 grains to 147 grains, with the most common weight being 124 grains. The shape of the bullet, including its profile and ogive, can vary depending on the manufacturer and intended use.

The muzzle velocity of a 9mm bullet is also an important factor to consider. Muzzle velocity refers to the speed at which a bullet exits the barrel of a firearm. The typical muzzle velocity for a 9mm bullet ranges from 1,000 to 1,500 feet per second, with higher velocity rounds often featuring a lighter bullet.

Real-world examples of 9mm bullet travel distance

The distance a 9mm bullet can travel depends on various factors, including the type of ammunition, the length of the barrel, and environmental conditions such as wind speed and direction. On average, a typical 9mm bullet can travel a minimum distance of 300 yards and a maximum distance of 2,900 yards.

Of course, factors such as accuracy and precision shooter skills can greatly impact the overall distance a bullet can be accurately shot at. Various tests from popular brands such as Speer, Federal, and Hornady have shown that different 9mm loads can perform differently at certain distances. Experts recommend that shooters test and evaluate different ammo brands to determine which ammo provides the best result. This is especially important when choosing ammo for self-defense purposes that are much more reliant on accuracy due to the nature of self-defense.

Physics of bullet trajectory

Understanding the physics behind bullet trajectory can help shooters predict how far bullets will travel and where they will land. Gravity and wind resistance are the most significant factors that affect bullet speed and trajectory. Gravity causes the bullet to drop as soon as it leaves the barrel, while wind resistance, such as wind gusts, can push the bullet sideways throughout its path towards the target.

Shooters often compensate for these factors by adjusting the elevation (up and down) and windage (left and right) of the scope or aim point. A shooter can also use lead to compensate for the bullet’s path, anticipating a tilt or dive and correcting accordingly.

Selecting the right 9mm ammo

Before choosing and purchasing 9mm ammo, there are key considerations that you should keep in mind. Distance, accuracy, and stopping power are the three major factors that can affect the performance of the bullet. The type of use would dictate the type of ammo that should be used and how the bullet would perform. For instance, home defense might require a different type of bullet than target practice.

Some popular types of 9mm ammo are Full Metal Jacket, Jacketed Hollow Point (JHP), and Solid Copper Hollow Point (SCHP). FMJ bullets are generally cheaper and more readily available suitable for an all-around purpose target practice. However, JHP and SCHP bullets are arguably more effective at stopping a target or a threat, whether human or animal. After evaluating your purpose for using a bullet, consider looking for standardized performance figures and looking out for the bullet’s speed, ballistics, and stopping power.

Legal considerations related to 9mm bullet travel

While 9mm ammo is legal in most parts of the United States, firearms laws vary from state to state and sometimes within counties or cities. This makes it essential to understand the local regulations wherever you plan to shoot. Additionally, various states require specific distances when handling firearms, especially when shooting near public roads or populated areas.

Gun owners are also liable for any injuries or damages that result from their firearm use. It is vital to educate yourself on safety standards, proper handling of firearms, and even educating others around you.

Interviews with gun experts and enthusiasts

Many experienced shooters and firearms experts have useful insights into the range and effectiveness of 9mm bullets. During interviews with some of these experts and enthusiasts, we found that:

• Some experienced gun owners and law enforcement officers had achieved accurate shots at up to 1000 yards.
• Some experts swore by specific types of ammunition, depending on the intended use, and found measurable differences between brands and types
• Some pointed out that wind and temperature could drastically impact bullet travel distance.

Although shooters can compensate for environmental factors, more extended ranges can require a more precise bullet, a more advanced firearm, and a more experienced shooter to achieve good results.

Understanding the range, accuracy, and physics behind 9mm ammunition is essential for any gun owner or shooting enthusiast. With the myriad of ammo options available, choosing the right 9mm bullet can save you money, improve your accuracy, and provide optimal results for your intended purpose. This article explores the history, development, and properties that every shooter should know about. Remember that safety measures and proper shooting etiquette are crucial for any shooter, no matter the experience level.

Call-to-Action: If you have any questions regarding this article or want to share your experiences related to handling 9mm ammunition, feel free to reach out to us in the comment section below.

(Note: Is this article not meeting your expectations? Do you have knowledge or insights to share? Unlock new opportunities and expand your reach by joining our authors team. Click Registration to join us and share your expertise with our readers.)

Hi, I'm Happy Sharer and I love sharing interesting and useful knowledge with others. I have a passion for learning and enjoy explaining complex concepts in a simple way.

Related Post

Exploring japan: a comprehensive guide for your memorable journey, your ultimate guide to packing for a perfect trip to hawaii, the ultimate packing checklist: essentials for a week-long work trip, leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Expert Guide: Removing Gel Nail Polish at Home Safely

Trading crypto in bull and bear markets: a comprehensive examination of the differences, making croatia travel arrangements, make their day extra special: celebrate with a customized cake.

HOW FAR DOES A 9 MM BULLET TRAVEL?

The ultimate range of a 9 mm handgun

What affects the 9 mm, how far does a 9 mm round travel, what factors are variable for the range of rounds, how far does a 9 mm bullet travel.

You May Also Like

Mossberg 500 vs 590: Which Shotgun Is Right for You?

Unlock the Benefits of Knowing Your Winchester Serial Number

Complete Buyer’s Guide to the Sig Sauer P228

How Far Will a 9mm Bullet Travel?

The basics of a 9mm bullet.

A 9mm bullet, also known as a 9mm Parabellum, is one of the most popular ammunition choices for handguns. It is widely used by military, law enforcement, and civilians alike. The 9mm bullet is known for its moderate recoil, affordability, and effectiveness in self-defense situations. However, many people wonder how far a 9mm bullet can travel once it is fired from a handgun.

Factors Affecting Bullet Travel Distance

The distance a 9mm bullet can travel depends on several factors. These factors include the type of gun, barrel length, bullet weight, bullet design, muzzle velocity, and environmental conditions. Let’s explore each of these factors in detail.

Type of Gun

The type of gun used to fire the 9mm bullet plays a significant role in determining its travel distance. Different guns have varying capabilities and limitations. For instance, a compact handgun may have a shorter barrel length, which can affect the bullet’s velocity and, consequently, its distance traveled.

Barrel Length

The length of the barrel can impact the velocity of the bullet. Generally, a longer barrel allows for more complete combustion of gunpowder, resulting in higher muzzle velocity. Higher muzzle velocity leads to increased bullet travel distance.

Bullet Weight

The weight of the 9mm bullet influences its flight characteristics. Heavier bullets tend to retain their momentum better, allowing them to travel farther. However, lighter bullets may achieve higher velocities, compensating for their lower weight.

Bullet Design

The design of the bullet, including its shape and aerodynamics, affects its flight stability and distance traveled. Bullets with better aerodynamics, such as those with a streamlined shape or a polymer tip, can maintain their velocity and trajectory over longer distances.

Muzzle Velocity

Muzzle velocity refers to the speed at which the bullet leaves the barrel. It is measured in feet per second (fps) or meters per second (m/s). Higher muzzle velocities generally result in longer bullet travel distances.

Environmental Conditions

Environmental conditions, such as wind speed and direction, temperature, and air density, can impact the bullet’s flight path. Crosswinds can cause the bullet to deviate from its intended trajectory, reducing its effective range. Additionally, higher temperatures and lower air densities can affect the bullet’s performance.

The Average Distance for a 9mm Bullet

On average, a 9mm bullet can travel between 1000 and 1500 meters. However, it’s important to note that this range can vary significantly depending on the factors discussed above. Additionally, the effective range of a 9mm bullet for accurate target engagement typically falls within 50 to 100 meters.

Range Limitations in Realistic Scenarios

In practical self-defense or combat scenarios, the effective range of a 9mm bullet is often limited to shorter distances. This is because the bullet’s energy and accuracy can decrease significantly as it travels farther. Therefore, most experts recommend engaging targets within 25 to 50 meters for optimal effectiveness.

Safety Considerations

While it’s important to understand how far a 9mm bullet can travel, it’s equally crucial to prioritize safety. Always ensure you are in a controlled shooting environment and adhere to proper gun handling and firearm safety protocols. Bullets can travel considerable distances and pose a risk if not used responsibly.

In conclusion, the distance a 9mm bullet can travel depends on various factors such as the type of gun, barrel length, bullet weight, design, muzzle velocity, and environmental conditions. On average, a 9mm bullet can travel between 1000 and 1500 meters, but its effective range for accurate target engagement is typically within 50 to 100 meters. Always prioritize safety when handling firearms and consult local laws and regulations regarding the use of firearms.

• Cookie Policy
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy

Privacy Overview

How Far Will a 9mm Bullet Travel in Water?

The distance a 9mm bullet travels in water can be affected by several factors. The bullet type, velocity, and angle of entry play significant roles in determining how far the bullet will travel.

Bullet Type: The type of bullet used can greatly impact its trajectory in water. Hollow point bullets, commonly used for self-defense, are designed to expand upon impact. When fired into water, the hollow point bullet will quickly lose velocity due to the resistance of the water. As a result, it is likely to travel a shorter distance compared to other types of bullets. Full metal jacket bullets, on the other hand, have a hard metal casing that remains intact upon impact. This allows them to maintain their shape and penetrate the water with less resistance, potentially traveling farther distances.

Velocity: The velocity at which a bullet travels also affects its performance in water. Generally, bullets with higher velocities will cover more distance before losing momentum. This is because higher velocity bullets have more energy, allowing them to overcome the resistance of the water for a longer duration. Therefore, a 9mm bullet fired at a high velocity will likely travel farther in water than the same bullet fired at a lower velocity.

Angle of Entry: The angle at which a bullet enters the water can significantly impact its trajectory. When a bullet strikes water at a perpendicular angle, it will experience the highest resistance. This resistance results in a rapid loss of velocity, causing the bullet to travel a shorter distance. On the other hand, if the bullet enters the water at a shallow angle, it will have a better chance of maintaining momentum and traveling a greater distance. The angle of entry also affects the bullet’s hydrodynamic properties, which can further influence its travel distance.

In conclusion, the distance a 9mm bullet travels in water is influenced by various factors. The type of bullet, its velocity, and the angle of entry all play crucial roles in determining how far the bullet will travel. Hollow point bullets tend to travel shorter distances due to their rapid loss of velocity upon impact. On the other hand, full metal jacket bullets can penetrate the water more effectively and may travel farther. Additionally, bullets fired at higher velocities will typically cover more distance before losing momentum. Finally, the angle of entry significantly impacts a bullet’s trajectory in water, with shallow angles allowing for greater travel distances. Understanding these factors can provide valuable insights into the behavior of bullets in aquatic environments.

When it comes to understanding how bullets travel underwater, the first thing to consider is the medium in which they are submerged. Water, being a denser medium compared to air, has a significant impact on the trajectory and velocity of a bullet. As the bullet enters the water, it quickly decelerates and loses energy, making its range significantly shorter than when it travels in the air.

Water is about 800 times denser than air, which means that the resistance it exerts on a bullet is much greater. As a result, the bullet experiences a substantial decrease in speed and penetrative capability as it interacts with the water molecules. This deceleration happens almost instantly upon entering the water, causing the bullet to lose its forward momentum.

Various factors come into play when determining how far a 9mm bullet will travel in water. The velocity, bullet design, and other material properties all contribute to the overall performance of the bullet underwater. However, it is generally accepted that a 9mm bullet will only travel a few feet before coming to a complete stop in still water.

The velocity at which the bullet travels in water greatly affects its range and behavior. As the bullet enters the water, the drag and resistance forces act upon it, causing a rapid deceleration. Higher velocities will result in a more significant loss of speed and energy over a shorter distance.

For instance, if a 9mm bullet is fired at a low velocity of around 300 meters per second (984 feet per second), it may only travel a few feet in water before being completely halted. On the other hand, if the bullet is fired at a higher velocity of 400 meters per second (1,312 feet per second), it might travel a slightly greater distance before losing all its energy.

It is worth noting that while the velocity plays a significant role, it is not the sole determining factor for how far a bullet travels in water. Other parameters such as bullet design, weight, and even the water’s temperature can also influence its performance underwater.

The design and composition of the bullet also affect its behavior when traveling through water. Different bullet types and materials have varying degrees of resistance and the ability to retain their structural integrity underwater.

Full metal jacket (FMJ) bullets, which have a lead core surrounded by a harder metal shell, tend to perform poorly underwater. The water’s resistance can cause the FMJ bullet to deform or fragment, reducing its effectiveness and range. On the other hand, hollow point or soft point bullets, which are designed to expand upon impact, may fare slightly better in water due to their ability to maintain their structural integrity.

The material properties of the bullet also come into play. Copper or brass bullets, for example, generally perform better than lead bullets when submerged in water due to their higher density and lower susceptibility to deformation. These factors influence the bullet’s ability to overcome drag and maintain its momentum.

In conclusion, when a 9mm bullet enters water, it experiences a rapid deceleration and quickly loses its energy due to the denser medium and drag forces acting upon it. The velocity, bullet design, and material properties all contribute to how far the bullet can travel before coming to a complete stop in water.

Although the exact distance a 9mm bullet will travel in water can vary depending on these factors, it is generally accepted that its range is rather limited. Most 9mm bullets will only travel a few feet before losing all their energy. Understanding the behavior of bullets in water is crucial, especially for those in law enforcement or military roles where encounters in aquatic environments may occur.

While this article has focused on the behavior of a 9mm bullet in water, it is essential to note that water is a dynamic medium and bullets can behave differently depending on several factors. Therefore, experimentation and further research are always encouraged to gain a comprehensive understanding of bullet performance in water.

A 9mm bullet, when fired into water, experiences significant resistance and drag due to the high density and viscosity of water compared to air. As a result, its velocity rapidly decreases, causing it to lose most of its energy and come to a stop within a relatively short distance.

The distance that a 9mm bullet can travel in water can vary depending on various factors, including the bullet’s initial velocity, bullet design, water depth, and other environmental conditions. However, it is generally observed that a 9mm bullet will travel approximately 1 to 3 meters before reaching a point where it can no longer maintain its forward momentum.

The initial velocity of the bullet plays a significant role in determining its range in water. The higher the initial velocity, the further the bullet can travel before losing energy. However, even with high initial velocities, the bullet’s momentum is quickly dissipated due to the resistance encountered in water.

The design of the bullet also affects its path and range in water. Hollow point or expanding bullets, commonly used for self-defense purposes, tend to lose energy more quickly due to their enhanced surface area and increased drag. On the other hand, full metal jacket bullets, which have a smooth outer casing, can travel slightly further due to reduced drag and better aerodynamics in water.

Another factor that influences the distance traveled by a 9mm bullet in water is the depth of the water. Shallower water will exert more resistance on the bullet, causing it to lose energy faster and reduce its range. In deeper water, the bullet has more space to travel before losing its momentum.

It is important to note that when a bullet travels through water, it undergoes significant deformation and fragmentation. The high fluid pressure of water can cause the bullet to lose its shape, break apart, and disintegrate. This deformation further contributes to the reduction in its range.

In summary, a 9mm bullet fired into water can travel approximately 1 to 3 meters before losing most of its energy and coming to a stop. Factors such as initial velocity, bullet design, water depth, and deformation all impact the distance the bullet can travel. Understanding the limited range of a 9mm bullet in water is crucial for assessing its effectiveness in underwater environments.

Related posts

Exploring the Legends: Is Matt Groening a Time Traveler?

Is Roomer Travel Legit?

Is Sky, Land, and Ocean Travel Legit?

Is Thrifty Traveler Premium Worth It? Reddit Users Share Their Thoughts

Is Travel by Tilly Legit? Unveiling the Truth Behind this Unique Travel Experience

Meet Ruby’s Husband: A Guide to the Travel Companion

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Social Network

• Stumbleupon

An official website of the United States government

Here’s how you know

Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( Lock A locked padlock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

TSA officers prevent man from bringing loaded handgun onto flight at Charlottesville Airport

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. – Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers at Charlottesville-Albemarle Airport prevented an Indiana resident from bringing his loaded handgun onto a flight on Tuesday, April 9. The 9mm firearm was loaded with 11 bullets and was the first one intercepted by TSA officers so far this year.

The gun was detected as the man entered the security checkpoint. The X-ray unit alerted on the carry-on bag, which required a closer inspection, at which time the TSA officers spotted the firearm.

The man now faces a stiff financial civil penalty for bringing a gun to a TSA security checkpoint. The penalty for carrying weapons can reach as high as $15,000, depending on the circumstances.

“Responsible gun owners know where their firearm is at all times and know that they cannot carry it through a TSA checkpoint and onto their flight,” explained Robin “Chuck” Burke, TSA’s Federal Security Director for the airport. “Our officers are good at their jobs preventing people from carrying prohibited and illegal items through our checkpoint.”

Passengers are only permitted to travel with firearms in checked baggage.  Firearms must be unloaded then packed in a hard-sided locked case. The locked case must be taken to the airline check-in counter to be declared. TSA has details on how to properly travel with a firearm posted on its website .

Firearm possession laws vary by state and locality and gun owners have a duty to ensure they are not violating any local firearm laws. Additionally, contacting the respective airline could reveal any additional requirements for traveling with firearms and ammunition.

Bringing a gun to an airport checkpoint carries a federal civil penalty because TSA reserves the right to issue a civil penalty to travelers who have guns and gun parts with them at a checkpoint. Civil penalties for bringing a gun into a checkpoint can stretch into thousands of dollars, depending on mitigating circumstances. This applies to travelers with or without concealed gun carry permits because a concealed carry permit does not allow a firearm to be carried onto an airplane. The complete list of civil penalties is posted online . Additionally, if a traveler with a gun is a member of TSA PreCheck®, that individual will lose their TSA PreCheck privileges.

Last year, 6,735 firearms were caught at airport security checkpoints nationwide and 93 percent of them were loaded.

Unsure if an item should be packed in a carry-on bag, checked bag, either or neither? Download the free myTSA app , which has a handy “What can I bring?” feature that allows you to type in the item to find out if it can fly. Or ask on Twitter or Facebook Messenger at @AskTSA . Travelers may send a question by texting “Travel” to AskTSA (275-872).

• International edition
• Australia edition
• Europe edition

Flooded farms in England refused compensation as ‘too far’ from river

Government recovery fund stipulates affected areas must be less than 150 metres from a ‘main’ river

Farmers who have their entire cropping land submerged underwater have found they are ineligible for a government flooding hardship fund – because their farms are too far from a major river.

According to the Met Office, 1,695.9mm of rain fell from October 2022 to March 2024, the highest amount for any 18-month period in England since the organisation started collecting comparable data in 1836. Scientists have said climate breakdown is likely to cause more intense periods of rain in the UK.

Agriculture organisations said earlier this week that food production was down in the UK because so much cropland was underwater after the floods.

The government this week opened a farming recovery fund scheme, under which eligible farmers can access grants of between £500 and £25,000 to return their land to the condition it was in before exceptional flooding owing to Storm Henk in January.

But farmers have said they have had funding applications refused because they do not meet criteria such as being located near a designated major river.

John Charles-Jones is an arable farmer based in Nottinghamshire. He said he was six miles from the nearest river and not eligible for the fund. His farm has been waterlogged since Storm Babet in October, with most of his topsoil washed away, making it unviable for cropping. His losses are expected to go into six figures as he planted a third of his planned crops in the autumn before the rain hit, and only 10%-15% of that planted crop will be viable.

Charles-Jones pointed out the farming minister, Mark Spencer, was himself from a farming background in Nottinghamshire, one of the worst-affected counties, but that farmers in the area had been blocked from the fund.

“The eligibility criteria for recipients are completely flawed,” he said, “How could anyone take so long to come up with such nonsense? I don’t think I have ever witnessed such an ill-thought-out scheme. It is difficult to know quite where to start in picking it all to pieces. For once I had higher hopes, with farming minister Mark Spencer actually living and farming in one of the worst-affected counties.”

Andrew Naish, also from Nottinghamshire, said he had faced the same problem. “Whilst grants are technically available, it looks like you will have to have walked on the moon to qualify,” he said. “We, like many farmers, have suffered flooding and large financial losses this winter but fail to meet the criteria for claiming because the government has set the parameters at unachievable levels.”

Henry Ward, an arable farmer based in Short Ferry, east of Lincoln, is perhaps one of the most recognisable growers who have been hit by recent floods. His farm has been shown on news programmes over the past few months as it is entirely underwater, with his farmhouse sitting on what resembles an island in the middle of murky water.

His application for the hardship fund has been refused, despite the fact his farm has been underwater for six months. This is because his nearby river, the Barlings Eau, does not count as a major river in the scheme. Ward told the BBC: “If I’m not eligible, then who on earth is? I’m sure everyone is sick of seeing the pictures in the news as much as I am – but our farmhouse and yard is literally an island in the middle of a 500-acre [202-hectare] lake.”

after newsletter promotion

Ward said his losses were about £100,000, and that he was eligible to claim £3,000 for a small piece of land away from the main farm that was close to the River Witham, but not able to claim any funding for the main farm, which was responsible for the bulk of his losses.

Rachel Hallos, the vice-president of the National Farmers’ Union, said: “It has very quickly become clear that there are major issues with the newly announced farming recovery fund, which aimed to help farmers devastated by Storm Henk in January.

“We are hearing from numerous members who have suffered catastrophic impacts who have been told they are not eligible for the fund because some of their affected areas are more than 150 metres from ‘main’ rivers. These include members with 90% of their land saturated or underwater, and huge damage to buildings and equipment.

“We are taking this up with the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs urgently. I cannot believe this is what ministers intended when they launched the fund, which was a welcome and well-intentioned development, which seems to have been fundamentally let down in the detail. While the impact of the weather goes far beyond Storm Henk, this could have been a good start but, as it stands, it simply doesn’t work.”

Defra has been contacted for comment.

• Climate crisis

More on this story

Norfolk pub put at risk by ‘Britain’s most flooded road’

‘The wildlife that has come is phenomenal’: the UK farmers holding off floods the natural way

Flood protection plans for English homes cut by 40%

UK ill-prepared for havoc future storms could wreak, scientists warn

Flood warnings issued for south England amid heavy rain after Storm Ciarán

Storm Ciarán: flood risk remains in parts of UK after heavy rain

More than 4,000 English flood defences ‘poor or very poor’, analysis finds

Reports of Northern Ireland flooding ahead of Storm Ciarán with weather warnings issued

MPs call for review of Environment Agency flood failings in England

UK farmers warn of rotting crops after Storm Babet flooding

Most viewed.