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Best 25 ACP Ammo

What is 25 ACP Ammo? 🧐

This ammo, also known as the .25 Automatic Colt Pistol, is a small centerfire cartridge developed by John Browning in 1905. This caliber became popular among law enforcement and military personnel due to its reduced recoil and increased stopping power compared to other pistol rounds of the same size.

What is 25 ACP Ammo

Features 💥

The .25 ACP ammo is a small, centerfire cartridge that is commonly used for personal protection due to its ease of concealment.

  • ✳️ One of the most notable features is its compact size. The cartridge measures only 6.35mm in diameter and 16mm in length, making it one of the smallest centerfire cartridges available.
  • ✳️ Despite its small size, this ammo can still pack a punch. It typically delivers a muzzle velocity of around 760 feet per second and a muzzle energy of around 64 foot-pounds.
  • ✳️ Another feature is its low recoil. Due to its small size and relatively low power, the recoil of the .25 ACP is often described as mild, making it easier to handle for those who may be sensitive to recoil.
Our Top Pick
25 ACP Ammo
Since the 25 ACP was created in 1905, this round has seen great developments, becoming popular for use in virtually any pistol. This type of ammo is ideal for shooters who want something reliable and trustworthy with a tremendous reputation. The 25 ACP version rounds ensure the durability, reliability, and accuracy of the firearm when using this type of ammo. Get dependable, pristine performance from this ammo so that you can enjoy all your shooting activities.
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Benefits 🔥

  • 🔶 Concealed Carry: The 25 ACP ammo is one of the smallest cartridges available, making it an ideal choice for concealed carry purposes.
  • 🔶 Optimal for Close-Range Shooting: This ammo has a short effective range, making it an ideal choice for close-range shooting. This type of ammo is perfect for personal defense situations as it can easily stop an attacker within a short distance.
  • 🔶 Economical: The ammo is relatively inexpensive compared to other calibers. This makes it an affordable option for individuals who are on a budget or who are practicing their shooting skills.
  • 🔶 Low Noise: It produces less noise when fired, making it an ideal choice for indoor shooting ranges. It is also less likely to cause hearing damage, making it a safe choice for individuals who shoot regularly.
  • 🔶 Versatile: This ammo can be used in a variety of firearms, including semi-automatic pistols, pocket pistols, and revolvers. This versatility allows you to choose a firearm that best suits your personal preferences and shooting style.

Benefits of 25 ACP ammo

How to Choose? 🔍

When selecting a type of 25 ACP ammo, it’s important to consider the intended application.

  • 💡 If you need ammunition for target practice or plinking, then standard full-metal jacket (FMJ) bullets will be more than suitable.
  • 💡 On the other hand, if you need self-defense or hunting ammunition, then hollow points may be a more suitable option.
  • 💡 Additionally, you’ll need to factor in the desired velocity and the powder charge used. Different types of cartridges use different amounts of powder and this affects their power and accuracy.

💵 While many people prefer to buy bulk cases of ammunition, it may be wise to try out several types before committing to large quantities to ensure compatibility with your firearm.

Selecting a type of 25 ACP ammo

⤵️ With that said, here are some helpful tips for selecting ammo:

  • ✴️ Consider your intended application – target practice or self-defense?
  • ✴️ Review velocity ratings and powder charges when comparing brands.
  • ✴️ Compare grain weight as heavier bullets tend to travel slower but deliver greater stopping power.
  • ✴️ Check reviews of various brands online.

Best 🚀 25 ACP Ammo Reviews

1# 25 ACP – 50 Grain FMJ – Fiocchi

25 ACP - 50 Grain FMJ - Fiocchi

1000 Rounds

If you’re searching for superior quality and reliability in your ammunition, notice the Fiocchi Shooting Dynamics. Loaded with similar grain weights as their Exacta line, this 25 ACP Auto ammo is perfect for both teaching and practicing, with comparable results at a much cheaper price. That means you can shoot, plink, or hunt as much as you like without breaking the bank. Order a case of Fiocchi 25 ACP AUTO bulk ammo today and enjoy a superior performance at an unbeatable price!

Pros:
  • Superior quality and reliability
  • 1000 rounds pack is ideal for teaching and practicing
  • Affordable pricing
  • Flawless performance through 21A Beretta
Cons:
  • Maybe a little dirty

 

2# 25 ACP – 50 Grain FMJ – PMC

25 ACP - 50 Grain FMJ - PMC

1000 Rounds 50 Rounds

Check out PMC Bronze Handgun Ammo! This ammo is manufactured with the same quality and dependability as PMC’s Starfire ammunition, so you know you’re getting a great product. All PMC cartridges must pass through a rigorous electronic powder check station inspection to ensure reliable performance. PMC Bronze Handgun Ammo is perfect for recreational shooters and sportsmen who want great performance without breaking the bank. With PMC, you know you’re getting quality and dependability that you can trust.

Pros:
  • Great for target practice
  • Reliable performance
  • Quality and dependability
  • Rugged construction
  • Good for recreational shooters and sportsmen
Cons:
  • Could be more expensive than other brands

 

3# 25 ACP – 50 Grain FMJ – Federal American Eagle

25 ACP - 50 Grain FMJ - Federal American Eagle

1000 Rounds 50 Rounds

Federal American Eagle’s 25 ACP is a great choice for those who want reliable and accurate performance from their pocket pistol. This round features a full metal jacket projectile that is perfect for target practice or self-defense. With a muzzle velocity of 760 fps, this cartridge provides the power you need in any situation. Whether you are at the range or out on the streets, you can count on the Federal American Eagle 25 ACP to get the job done.

Pros:
  • Affordable
  • Copper jacketed to keep bore cleaner
  • Feeds more smoothly than some other 25 ACP ammo
  • Non-corrosive primer
Cons:
  • May not be popular among handloading enthusiasts

 

4# 25 ACP – 35 Grain XTP JHP – Fiocchi

25 ACP - 35 Grain XTP JHP - Fiocchi

500 Rounds 50 Rounds

Do you want to get a little sidearm that packs a punch? Fiocchi’s Pistol Extrema XTP ammo is exactly what you need! This round is topped off with Hornady’s 35-grain XTP, a jacketed hollow point projectile that is designed for self-defense. The XTP’s swaged lead core also aids in uniform expansion, and along with Hornady’s signature, the concentric jacket possesses the rotational stability that accurate shooting demands. The nickel-plated brass casings are 100% reloadable, making this ammo a great value. And with a muzzle velocity of 900 fps and muzzle energy of 63 ft-lbs, you can rest assured knowing that your little sidearm packs a serious punch.

Pros:
  • Hornady XTP projectile is designed for self-defense
  • Swaged lead core aids in uniform expansion
  • 100% reloadable brass casings
  • Muzzle velocity of 900 fps
Cons:
  • Shorter range than some other handgun calibers

 

5# 25 ACP – 35 Grain FTX – Hornady Critical Defense

ACP - 35 Grain FTX - Hornady Critical Defense

25 Rounds

Introducing the Hornady Critical Defense 25 ACP.  This round is fitted with a 35-grain FTX Projectile – the columnar Flex Tip of which prevents its hollow cavity from clogging with fabric as it penetrates a threat. The FTX also boasts the ability to tunnel deeply within a target, as the InterLock ring which mechanically binds its core and jacket together promotes superior weight retention. Plus, the brass casing is plated with nickel for great lubricity, easy spot-checking in dark settings, and enhanced corrosion resistance. So when your life is on the line, you can count on Hornady Critical Defense 25 ACP to get the job done.

Pros:
  • Columnar Flex Tip prevents clogging
  • Devastating expansion
  • Tunnels deeply within a target
  • Easy spot-checking in dark settings
Cons:
  • Pricey

 

6# 25 ACP – 35 Grain JHP XTP – Hornady

25 ACP - 35 Grain JHP XTP - Hornady

25 Rounds

The Custom line of handgun ammunition from Hornady is the perfect choice for hunting, self-defense, and law enforcement applications. The XTP bullet provides maximum knockdown power and features jacketed hollow point bullets which are designed to achieve high-impact energy transfer and controlled expansion upon impact. With a muzzle velocity of 900 feet per second and 63 foot-pounds of muzzle energy, this round is sure to stop any threat in its tracks. Don’t take chances with your safety, trust the Custom line of handgun ammunition from Hornady.

Pros:
  • XTP bullet provides maximum knock-down power
  • Designed for high-impact energy transfer and controlled expansion
  • Produced to the tightest tolerances for peak performance
  • Great reputation among gun enthusiasts
Cons:
  • Not as widely available as some other rounds

 

7# 25 ACP – 35 Grain JHP – Speer Gold Dot

25 ACP - 35 Grain JHP - Speer Gold Dot

20 Rounds

Introducing the Speer Gold Dot 25 ACP – 35 Grain JHP. This premium line of defense ammunition is designed for personal protection and is bonded for superior weight retention and reliability. The core-jacket separation is eliminated with this design, making it more effective than traditional hollow-point bullets. The smooth profile and consistent muzzle velocity make it ideal for use in semi-automatic handguns. With a muzzle velocity of 900 fps and 6 ft/lbs of energy, this 25 ACP ammunition is sure to give you the stopping power you need in a self-defense situation.

Pros:
  • Superior weight retention
  • Eliminates core-jacket separation
  • Optimum expansion and penetration
  • Smooth profile for reliable feeding
Cons:
  • Higher price point
  • May not be as reliable in older firearms

 

8# 25 ACP – 50 Grain FMJ – Fiocchi

25 ACP - 50 Grain FMJ - Fiocchi

50 Rounds

Searching for quality ammunition that won’t break the bank? Look at the Fiocchi Shooting Dynamics. Each round is loaded with a 50-grain full metal jacket bullet, making it perfect for target practice and plinking. The reloadable brass casing and non-corrosive powder make this ammunition easy to use and reload, while the 800 fps muzzle velocity ensures that you’ll hit your target with precision. Don’t settle for less when you can have the best with Fiocchi Shooting Dynamics. Order your ammunition today and enjoy the shooting experience!

Pros:
  • Superior quality and reliability
  • Affordable pricing
  • Loaded with similar grain weights as the Exacta line
  • Perfect for target practice, plinking, and shooting exercises
Cons:
  • It may not be as reliable in all weather conditions

 

9# 25 ACP – 50 Grain MC – Remington UMC

25 ACP - 50 Grain MC - Remington UMC

50 Rounds

Remington Arms is a legendary name in the world of firearms, and its 25 ACP rounds are perfect for range and target practice. These new, brass-cased rounds are reloadable and non-corrosive, making them a great choice for avid shooters. The full metal jacket 50-grain bullet provides excellent accuracy and penetration, and the muzzle velocity of 760 fps ensures that you’ll hit your target with precision. Kleanbore primers provide reliable ignition, making this ammunition a great choice for law enforcement agencies and competitive shooters alike. Pick up a box of these high-quality 25 ACP rounds from Remington today!

Pros:
  • New brass-cased, boxer-primed rounds
  • Reloadable
  • Non-corrosive
  • Kleanbore primers
Cons:
  • Not so high muzzle energy

 

10# 25 ACP – 50 Grain FMJ – Winchester

25 ACP – 50 Grain FMJ – Winchester = 50 Rounds

50 Rounds

Do you need a cleaner and smoother draw with your handgun? Winchester’s Centerfire Handgun Ammunition with Full Metal Jacket is just what you need. The reduced barrel fouling means that you’ll have an easier time drawing your weapon, and the FMJ ensures positive functioning and no expansion. Whether you’re at the range or in the field, you can trust Winchester to provide the high-quality ammo you need to get the job done right.

Pros:
  • Reduced barrel fouling
  • Positive functioning
  • Clean burning powders
  • Reliable Feeding
Cons:
  • High price tag

 

11# 25 ACP – 50 Grain FMJ – CCI Ammunition Blazer

25 ACP – 50 Grain FMJ - CCI Ammunition Blazer Aluminum = 50 Rounds

50 Rounds

Check out CCI Blazer Aluminum ammunition. These loads feature aluminum cases to keep the price low, without sacrificing accuracy or performance. The non-reloadable cases and boxer primers make this ammunition a great choice for training exercises. And with clean-burning propellants, you can expect optimum velocity and consistent chamber pressures. So don’t break the bank the next time you’re stocking up on ammo. Choose CCI Blazer Aluminum instead.

Pros:
  • Affordable price
  • Aluminum cases
  • Accurate
  • Non-corrosive primers
Cons:
  • May not be available in your state

 

12# 25 ACP – 50 Grain FMJ – Remington UMC

25 ACP – 50 Grain FMJ - Remington UMC = 20 Rounds

20 Rounds

Pay attention to the Remington UMC 25 ACP Auto. It features a muzzle velocity of 760 feet per second and muzzle energy of 64 feet pounds, making it a great choice for any shooter. The brass casing and Boxer primers are designed to provide smooth feeding and extraction, while the nickel-plated casing helps reduce oxidation. The powder-coated bullets also help reduce muzzle flash, making this ammo perfect for any situation. Order your box of Remington UMC 25 ACP Auto today and be ready for anything.

Pros:
  • Exceptional performance
  • Controlled recoil
  • Reduced muzzle flash
  • Affordable
Cons:
  • Lacks stopping power

 

13# 25 ACP – 50 Grain FMJ Brass Cased – Federal Premium

25 ACP - 50 Grain FMJ Brass Cased - Federal Premium

50 Rounds

Federal American Eagle 25 ACP Auto is an excellent choice for those high-volume shooters who enjoy reloading their ammunition. This American Eagle ammo is designed to have similar ballistic qualities as Federal Premium rounds, but at a value price that makes it perfect for target training and plinking. The 50-grain bullet is clean burning and provides great ballistics and reliable feeding. With a wide selection of bullet styles available, Federal American Eagle 25 ACP Auto is sure to have the perfect option for your needs. So don’t miss your target – pick up a box of Federal American Eagle 25 ACP Auto today!

Pros:
  • Clean-burning powders
  • Federal primers and brass
  • Value price for target training and plinking
  • Reliable feeding
Cons:
  • May not function properly in some semi-automatic handguns

 

14# 25 ACP – 35 Grain Hollow Point – Speer Gold Dot

25 ACP - 35 Grain Hollow Point - Speer Gold Dot = 20 Rounds

50 Rounds

Speer Gold Dot ammunition is the choice of law enforcement agencies across the country. It’s pressure-formed lead core and bonded jacket provide exceptional accuracy and penetration, while its Gold Dot hollow-point design expands consistently through a variety of barriers. With its Uni-Cor process, Speer has control over the expansion of the bullet, making it a reliable and effective choice for self-defense. With muzzle velocities of up to 900 ft/s, this is the ammo you need to keep you safe and in control.

Pros:
  • Structural-plated, pressure-formed core
  • Uni-Cor bonding
  • Gold Dot hollow point design
  • Sealed primer
Cons:
  • Not available in some areas

 

15# 25 ACP – 35 Grain Extreme Terminal Performance – Hornady

25 ACP - 35 Grain Extreme Terminal Performance - Hornady

50 Rounds

Hornady Custom pistol ammo is an excellent choice for handgun shooters looking for supreme accuracy and maximum knockdown power. The XTP (Extreme Terminal Performance) bullet provides outstanding accuracy and terminal performance. The powders in each cartridge are loaded to ensure optimal pressure, velocity, and consistency from lot to lot. Each primer is matched to individual loads and specifically selected for its ability to quickly, completely, and reliably ignite the powder charge. The Hornady XTP bullet will not disappoint.

Pros:
  • Supreme accuracy
  • Maximum knock-down power
  • Every round is hand inspected
Cons:
  • Pricey

 

16# 25 ACP – 45 Grain Expanding Point – Winchester SUPER-X

25 ACP - 45 Grain Expanding Point - Winchester SUPER-X

50 Rounds

Looking for high-quality, dependable, and powerful ammunition that won’t let you down? Notice the Winchester SUPER-X. With over 90 years of experience manufacturing quality ammo, Super-X is a name you can trust. This 25 ACP ammunition features a 45-grain expanding point bullet that is engineered for reliable functioning and accuracy. The hollow point design provides consistent expansion, while the expanding point ensures optimum penetration and rapid energy release. Super-X ammo is the perfect choice for hunters and shooters who demand the very best.

Video review

Pros:
  • High-quality
  • Powerful
  • Consistent expansion
  • Optimum penetration
Cons:
  • Not suitable for target practice

 

Step-by-step Reloading 🧑‍🔧

Reloading ACP ammunition requires a few specific items.

  • 🛠️ To get started you will need a reloading press or die set, brass cases, primers, bullets, powder, and appropriate reloading tools. The amount of components needed depends on the number of rounds to be loaded.

🛑 It is important to check manufacturer specifications to determine the correct components and settings when loading your ammunition.

  • 📝 The first step is to make sure the dies are properly adjusted for case sizing and bullet seating depth. This can be done by following the instructions provided with your particular die set.
  • 📝 Once set up correctly, load each primer into its casing and seat it firmly using a hand press or other tool designed for this purpose.
  • 📝 Next, add the appropriate amount of powder according to manufacturer recommendations for your specific caliber and bullet weight.
  • 📝 The bullet should then be seated to the correct depth and crimped into place if necessary.
  • 📝 Finally, each reloaded cartridge should be inspected both visually and with a case gauge before being approved for use.

🛑 Remember to always observe basic safety precautions when reloading or using firearms, such as wearing eye protection, using a good powder scale and never tampering with ammunition components beyond what is necessary for adequate functioning.

FAQ 🤠

What caliber is 25 ACP?

✅ The 25 ACP is a small caliber pistol round that is also known as the 25 Auto. It was first introduced in the early 1900 and has been used in a variety of small pistols since then.

🛟 It has a case length of 0.623 inches (15.8 mm) and a bullet diameter of 0.251 inches (6.4 mm). The overall length of the cartridge is 1.066 inches (27.0 mm).

What is the maximum effective range of 25 ACP?

🎯 The maximum effective range is usually considered to be around 50 yards (45 meters).

🔶 However, some experienced shooters have been known to hit targets at much greater distances.

What are the most popular 25 ACP pistols?

➡️ Some of the most popular 25 ACP pistols include:

  • 🔰 The Beretta 21A Bobcat;
  • 🔰 The Colt Mustang;
  • 🔰 The Ruger LCP.
How loud is a 25 ACP?

🔷 The 25 ACP (or Auto Colt Pistol) is a small, lightweight caliber of ammunition typically used for self-defense.

  • 💣 Its small size and generally low power make for an exceptionally quiet round. As such, it’s perfect for those who prefer not to draw attention from their weapon.
  • 💣 On average, a gun firing a 25 ACP will produce between 130-140 dB of sound – much quieter than the level considered unsafe by OSHA standards (above 140dB).
What disadvantages of 25 ACP?

🤔 25 ACP has some drawbacks that should be considered before buying.

  • 📌 Since it is a rimfire round, ammo is more prone to misfires due to priming failure than centerfire rounds. This can lead to jams or other issues with your firearm if you are using this ammunition in a self-defense situation.
  • 📌 Additionally, since it typically contains only a small amount of powder, it may not be ideal for long-range target shooting or hunting applications.

Conclusion 😉

The best 25 ACP ammo can be found by following the advice in this article. By considering different factors such as price and quality, you should be able to find the perfect ammunition for your needs. We hope that you have found this content helpful and informative. Thank you for reading! 😎👍

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Gary Brewer
Gary Brewer
1 year ago

I recently purchased an FIE Titan in .25ACP from my local gun shop. The shop had bought a batch of pistols from the police department, and there was no warranty or guarantee of its functionality or safety beyond the in-shop test fire. However, at a price point of just $59, I didn’t have high expectations. To my surprise, I took it to the range and put a few boxes of ammo through it, and it functioned flawlessly. What are your thoughts on the .25ACP as a defensive cartridge?

Suzfon
Suzfon
Reply to  Gary Brewer
1 year ago

I once witnessed a large man being fatally shot with a single round from a .25ACP. Although it was a lucky shot, the man went down instantly, but it still took a few minutes for him to pass away before the ambulance arrived. Despite this, if you have no other choice but to carry a .25ACP, it’s best to practice drawing it and racking the slide Israeli style, and hope that you never have to use it in a real-life self-defense situation.

Misael Terry
Misael Terry
Reply to  Gary Brewer
1 year ago

In my experience, the .25 ACP is often referred to as a “get off me” caliber due to its limited stopping power. However, by using ammo like 25 ACP – 50 Grain FMJ – PMC, you can achieve a penetration depth of around 16″-20″, which should be enough for this caliber.

Frithroy
Frithroy
1 year ago

I recently purchased a Beretta Jetfire for .25 ACP and I must say, I love it. Despite the caliber’s limited stopping power, just having a gun on hand can often de-escalate a situation. In my view, the .25 ACP serves more as a “possibly lethal deterrent” rather than a “life-ender”.

Van Hayden
Van Hayden
Reply to  Frithroy
1 year ago

Based on what I’ve heard from online discussions, the .25 ACP round is said to be easily deflected. This means that the bullet can get easily thrown off course by things like clothing, bone, or even flesh, failing to hit vital areas.

Macsan
Macsan
Reply to  Frithroy
1 year ago

In my experience, a .25 ACP round has the potential to be just as lethal as a .40 S&W round, despite the need for more rounds and precise shot placement. To maximize the stopping power of the .25 ACP, I practice shooting three quick bursts at a time, aiming for the center mass or throat area, or taking an upward angle under the rib cage. This can quickly render someone short of breath and incapacitated. I think the .25 ACP can hold its own in terms of stopping power with the right ammo and shot placement.

Noel Pennington
Noel Pennington
1 year ago

I recently inherited an old 25 ACP pistol and am considering using it as a backup to my 9 mm for self-defense. I know that 25 ACP is not an ideal self-defense round, but I would like to know what type of ammo would be best for it. Should I go for full metal jacket bullets for maximum penetration, or are the XTP bullets in the Hornady and Fiocchi rounds better now?

Egarroy
Egarroy
Reply to  Noel Pennington
1 year ago

All .25 ACP ammunition is smokeless and suitable for firing at SAAMI pressures. I would recommend using full metal jacket rounds due to their feed reliability, even though penetration can still be marginal and inconsistent. I’ve found that JHP rounds rarely expand in .25 ACP, and feeding can be an issue in many of the pistols chambered for this caliber that were poorly made from the start. To effectively use a .25 ACP for self-defense, you need to be able to hit the eye socket, which requires a high level of accuracy.

Neymar Thomas
Neymar Thomas
1 year ago

I live in the UK, and in some ways, we are lucky enough to be somewhat immune to the ammo shortage due to the strict limits on how much ammunition one can purchase and possess. However, this can be a hassle, especially if you live far from a gun shop or in a remote area. I heard about someone who converted a CZ452 to .25 ACP, and while it may seem like a lot of work to reload such a tiny cartridge, it is the closest thing to rimfire, and at least you can still practice your shooting skills. I think it would be a good idea for a gun maker to start producing a bolt-action rifle chambered in .25 ACP. I imagine it would be relatively inexpensive to reload .25 ACP, especially if you cast your bullets.

TomsonRetwil
TomsonRetwil
Reply to  Neymar Thomas
1 year ago

It may be done. I’ve been using small rifle primers in place of small pistol primers and haven’t had any issues so far. From what I’ve read, the only potential problem is that the hardness of the small rifle primer may cause some weak firing pin strikes in a handgun, leading to misfires. It’s worth noting that different primers have different levels of hardness, so it’s important to do your research before purchasing them. In my case, I’ve simply been using what I had on hand.