I'm looking for expert (informed) opinions regarding Federal 230 grain Premium HydraShocks vs. 165 grain Personal Defense loads.  I have carried both in my Gold Cup for defensive purposes.  I have shot both, at the range.  The 230 grain loads seem to be slightly more accurate, with little or no additional recoil.  I have had one stovepipe jam with the 165 grain load, out of about 30 rounds fired.

So, my question is "Why even consider the Personal Defense load?"  Stopping power and penetration is less than the 230 grain HydraShock and, at least in my weapon, they may be less reliable.

Any other experience with these?  [:\]

I did quite a lot of testing with the PD's and found that yes they do expand very violently but not nearly as much penetration as I like. The biggest problem that I had with them though was a very bright and large muzzle flash. Out of a 4 inch or longer barrel I like 200 and 230 gr rounds. In shorter barrels 185 or 185+P. Also the 230's are a bit more accurate because they have a longer surface area for the rifling to engage. The 165's dont stabilize in flight quite as well as the others.

In .45 stick with the heavier rounds.  I prefer at least 200gr. and 230gr. will always be my top choice, especially in a full size 1911.