Is +P and +P+ Ammo Safe for My Gun?
+P ammunition is loaded to higher than standard pressure (typically 10 percent over SAAMI standard) and is safe for modern firearms rated for it — most guns manufactured after 1990 handle +P without issues. +P+ exceeds SAAMI specifications entirely and should only be used in firearms explicitly approved by the manufacturer. Check your owner's manual or contact the manufacturer before using either.
Why It Matters
Higher pressure ammunition generates more velocity and energy, improving terminal performance for self-defense. However, it also increases recoil, muzzle flash, and accelerates wear on the firearm. Using +P or +P+ in a firearm not rated for it can cause cracked frames, accelerated slide wear, and in extreme cases, catastrophic failure. Knowing your firearm's rating is essential.
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+P pressure specifications by caliber:
9mm Luger:
- Standard pressure: 35,000 psi
- +P: 38,500 psi (10 percent over standard)
- +P+: no official specification, typically 40,000 to 42,000 psi
.38 Special:
- Standard pressure: 17,000 psi
- +P: 20,000 psi
- .357 Magnum (same case, different specification): 35,000 psi
.45 ACP:
- Standard pressure: 21,000 psi
- +P: 23,000 psi
Firearms rated for +P (generally safe):
- Most modern polymer-framed pistols (Glock, S&W M&P, Sig P320, Springfield XD)
- Most modern metal-framed pistols manufactured after 1990
- Any firearm whose manual states '+P rated'
Firearms to avoid +P in:
- Older revolvers (pre-1980s .38 Special revolvers)
- Lightweight alloy-framed pocket pistols (check manufacturer)
- Any firearm the manufacturer says is not rated for +P
- Older Walther PPK and similar compact designs
Wear considerations with +P:
- Recoil spring life reduced by approximately 30 to 50 percent
- Slide velocity increases, accelerating frame and rail wear
- Barrel wear slightly accelerated
- For practice: use standard pressure; for carry: +P is acceptable
- Replace recoil springs at manufacturer-recommended intervals or sooner
Build Impact
If you carry +P ammunition for self-defense, practice with standard pressure ammunition of the same bullet weight to save on wear, then verify function and point of impact with your carry ammo periodically. Replace your recoil spring every 2,000 to 3,000 rounds if shooting +P frequently. Never use +P+ as a steady diet — it is acceptable for carry ammunition but should not be used for range sessions.