Is SimX Ammo really better for self-defense?

Why are people talking about SimX Ammo?

Most concealed carriers trust brands like Gold Dot, HST, or Hydro-Shok. I have carried Hydro-Shok for years. These rounds have a proven track record. Many see no reason to switch. But a new contender, SimX Ammo, demands attention. This option doesn’t tweak hollow point design—it completely rethinks how defensive ammunition works.

In this episode of the For The Love of Guns Podcast, Bill Riley, the founder of SimX, explains the science behind their lightweight, polymer-core bullets. This article breaks down that conversation and explains what sets SimX apart. It also covers why it could change what goes in the magazine.

What makes SimX different from traditional bullets?

A Polymer Core, Not Lead

SimX Ammo swaps the traditional lead core for polymer. This change reduces the round’s weight. But the goal isn’t just lighter bullets. SimX designs its bullets to decelerate rapidly inside soft tissue, releasing massive energy to stop threats quickly.

Built for Shock, Not Penetration

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Traditional self-defense rounds aim to penetrate a certain depth and expand. SimX flips this approach. The bullet dumps energy fast inside the target, delivering up to 1,500 PSI of internal shock. Traditional bullets create about 150 PSI. That tenfold increase makes a major difference. It took nearly two years to fully understand and accept the science behind it.

How does SimX Ammo perform in real-world tests?

Field-Proven on Large Threats

During the episode, Riley shared real-world results. SimX has taken down 400+ pound feral hogs with a single 9mm round. These aren’t lab tests—they’re field results under extreme conditions.

SimX backs its claims with footage and testing data. The company spent years perfecting the design, logging over 160,000 failures before reaching success.

Will SimX work in standard concealed carry guns?

SimX builds its ammo to run reliably in common handguns. Testing includes Glock, SIG, and Smith & Wesson platforms. No special tuning, springs, or barrels are needed.

Does SimX make sense for EDC and home defense?

Lighter Weight, Lower Recoil

One major benefit of polymer-core bullets is lighter carry weight. A full mag of SimX weighs less than a mag loaded with traditional rounds. Over a full day, that savings adds up.

Lighter projectiles can also mean less recoil, leading to faster follow-up shots. How much difference it makes will vary between shooters and platforms.

Designed to Minimize Over Penetration

SimX designs its rounds to stop soft threats quickly. They aren’t built to punch through auto glass or thick walls. For home defense and close-quarters encounters, this design could prevent unintended risks.

Longer Barrel, Same Delivery

Riley explained that longer barrels can increase bullet speed. However, the internal energy transfer and terminal performance stay consistent. It’s not just about higher velocity—it’s about using that energy effectively.

Why switch from Hydro-Shok to something new?

Hydro-Shok has been my trusted carry round. That’s about to change. After talking with SimX’s founder and studying the science behind their design, it’s clear SimX deserves a real-world test. It’s not ready to fully replace my setup yet, but it has earned a spot in the testing lineup.

Where can you buy SimX Ammo?

Interested shooters can buy SimX Ammo directly from their official site. Visit SimX Ammo here to check current options and specifications.

Is this the future of self-defense ammunition?

SimX Ammo might not be for everyone. Some shooters will prefer sticking with lead-core, expansion-driven designs. But shooters who want faster threat stoppage and reduced over penetration will want to keep an eye on SimX.

This isn’t a product review—that will come later after real-world testing. Still, the conversation with Bill Riley shows this isn’t hype. It’s a fresh way to think about defensive shooting.

To hear the full story, listen to the podcast episode now.

FAQ

What is SimX Ammo made of?
SimX uses a polymer-based core instead of traditional lead. This design reduces over penetration and delivers massive shock inside soft targets.

Is SimX Ammo safe for everyday carry?
SimX builds its ammo for EDC and self-defense. The company claims better real-world performance, but shooters should always test in their own firearms.

Does SimX Ammo work in regular handguns?
Yes. SimX designs its rounds for common calibers like 9mm, .40, and .45 without requiring modifications.

Why is SimX different from hollow points?
Instead of expanding like a hollow point, SimX bullets slow down rapidly and dump energy, delivering high internal pressure without over-travel.

Where can I learn more about SimX Ammo?
Listen to the full podcast episode with Bill Riley, SimX’s founder, at TRB Podcast HQ.

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About the Author: Jason Schaller is a former FFL holder and founder of Eagle Eye Shooters Supply in Helena, MT, where he provided professional gunsmithing services and guided customers on all aspects of firearms ownership. Today, he teaches DIY gunsmithing at The Rogue Banshee and serves as a Chief Instructor at Freedom Crew University. With over a decade of hands-on professional experience with firearms and nearly 30 years in IT, Jason also holds top cybersecurity certifications including CISSP, CISA, and CRISC. When he’s not geeking out, he’s helping others build self-reliance, critical thinking, and firearms proficiency through real-world content.

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