Originally Posted by Landric

Say what?

I suppose what you are trying to ask is why you should use factory ammunition over handloaded ammunition.

Here are some reasons that come to mind:

-Factory ammunition aimed at the self-defense market is designed specifically for that task. It often uses low flash powders, premium bullets (sometimes not available as components), specifically tailored velocities, etc.

-Factory ammunition uses all new components, handloaded ammunition doesn't always, and remanufactured/reloaded ammunition is by definition made with used brass. Used brass can effect reliability.

-There is at least a theory that using handloaded ammunition might open one up to some liability in either criminal or civil court. The more time I spend in law enforcement the less convincing I find the theory, but I will agree that it could come up in an investigation.

I trust my handloads. I would feel comfortable carrying them if I had the option (I don't due to department policy). However, if I were to do so, I would only use new brass, and I would load bullets made by the same manufacturer as that of the brass. I'd have to test the loads using a chronograph for velocity and test other performance (flash, bullet expansion, etc.) Overall its easier to use factory ammunition as much of that testing has been done by experts at the factory. Defense ammunition is not a place to try and save money. I suppose one could say that one knows one's own handloads are assembled correctly. It all comes down to what one is most comfortable with.

I'm comfortable carrying factory defense ammunition. Under the right circumstances I would be comfortable carrying my handloads. YMMV.