As one of the most popular cartridges in the world, the 9mm Luger, also known as the 9mm Parabellum or simply Ammunition 9mm Luger, has been around for over a century. Developed in 1902 by German firearms manufacturer Georg Luger, the 9mm quickly became a favorite among military and law enforcement agencies. Today, it is also a favorite among civilians for self-defense, competition shooting, and recreational shooting.

In this guide, we'll explore the basics of the 9mm Luger, including its history, performance, and popular firearms that use it.

History

The 9mm Luger was developed as a replacement for the 7.65mm Luger, which was used by the German military at the time. The new cartridge was designed to provide more stopping power, better penetration, and increased accuracy. The first firearm to use the 9mm Luger was the Luger semi-automatic pistol, which was adopted by the German military in 1908.

During World War II, the 9mm Luger was widely used by German troops and their allies, including the Italians and the Japanese. After the war, the cartridge became popular among military and law enforcement agencies around the world. Today, the 9mm Luger is one of the most widely used cartridges in the world.

Performance

The 9mm Luger is a versatile cartridge that is capable of delivering both high velocity and stopping power. It typically uses a bullet weighing between 115 and 147 grains, although some manufacturers offer lighter or heavier options. The cartridge has a maximum pressure of 35,000 psi and a muzzle velocity of up to 1,300 feet per second.

The 9mm Luger has a reputation for being easy to shoot and having low recoil, making it popular among new and experienced shooters alike. It also has a good reputation for accuracy and reliability, which is why it is a favorite among law enforcement agencies and military personnel.

Firearms

There are many firearms that use the 9mm Luger cartridge, ranging from compact concealed carry pistols to full-size duty pistols. Here are a few popular options:

  • Glock 19: The Glock 19 is a compact pistol that is popular among law enforcement officers and civilians alike. It has a 15-round magazine and is known for its reliability and accuracy.
  • Sig Sauer P320: The Sig Sauer P320 is a modular pistol that can be customized to fit the shooter's needs. It has a 17-round magazine and is known for its accuracy and ease of use.
  • Smith & Wesson M&P9: The Smith & Wesson M&P9 is a full-size duty pistol that is popular among law enforcement agencies. It has a 17-round magazine and is known for its accuracy and reliability.

Conclusion

The 9mm Luger is a versatile cartridge that has been around for over a century. It is known for its ease of use, accuracy, and reliability, and is popular among military and law enforcement agencies as well as civilians. There are many firearms that use the 9mm Luger cartridge, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable and versatile firearm.