Most popular pistol cartridge in the world. Used by militaries, law enforcement, and civilians globally. Excellent balance of capacity, recoil, and effectiveness.
Type: Pistol
Introduced: 1902, Germany
Parent case: 7.65x21mm Parabellum
Standardization: SAAMI
Bullet diameter: 0.355" (9.02 mm)
Case length: 0.754" (19.15 mm)
Overall length: 1.169" (29.69 mm)
Max pressure: 35,000 PSI
Rim type: Rimless
Primer: Small Pistol
Typical twist rate: 1:10
Muzzle velocity: 990–1250 fps
Muzzle energy: 300–400 ft-lbs
Effective range: 50 yd
Common bullet weights: 90, 115, 124, 135, 147 gr
Primary use: Self Defense, Military, Target, Competition
Production status: Active
Also known as: 9x19mm Parabellum · 9mm NATO · 9mm Para
History: Designed by Georg Luger in 1902 for the Luger pistol. Adopted by German military in 1908. After decades of .45 ACP dominance in US, the 9mm surged in 1980s-90s with high-capacity wonder nines.
Notable firearms: Glock 17, Beretta M9, SIG P320, CZ 75, Luger P08, MP5
Military use: {"country":"Germany","years":"1908-present"}, {"country":"NATO","years":"1980s-present"}
Similar cartridges: .40 S&W, .45 ACP