What Is +P Ammo?
Higher pressure, more velocity, more recoil and wear — when +P is worth it and when it isn't.
The Bottom Line
+P ('plus P') ammo is loaded to a higher pressure than standard, which boosts velocity and energy. The benefit is modestly improved terminal performance — most notable in cartridges like .38 Special, where +P meaningfully wakes up an otherwise mild round. The costs are more recoil (slower follow-ups), more muzzle flash, and more wear on the gun over time. There's also a hotter '+P+' designation that exceeds even +P pressure.
Only use +P in a firearm rated for it — check your manual or the gun itself, as some older or smaller guns aren't built for the added pressure. For modern defensive calibers like 9mm, standard-pressure premium hollow points already meet FBI standards, so +P is optional and largely a matter of preference versus controllability. For .38 Special snubbies, +P is often worth the trade. Whatever you choose, confirm it runs reliably and that you can still shoot it fast and accurately.