Lindcott Armory Compare / 9mm Luger vs 9x21mm IMI
Cartridge comparison
9mm Luger vs 9x21mm IMI
9x21mm IMI is faster (1,280 vs 1,250 fps); 9x21mm IMI carries more energy (450 vs 400 ft·lb); 9x21mm IMI recoils less.
9mm Luger →Representative trajectory · 25 yd zero0–200 yd Open in Ballistic Compare ↗
9x21mm IMI →Representative trajectory · 25 yd zero0–200 yd Open in Ballistic Compare ↗
| 9mm Luger | 9x21mm IMI | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Pistol | Pistol |
| Introduced | 1902 | 1980 |
| Bullet ⌀ | 0.355″ | 0.356″ |
| Case length | 0.754″ | 0.833″ |
| Velocity | 990–1,250 fps | 1,150–1,280 fps |
| Energy | 300–400 ft·lb | 363–450 ft·lb |
| Max pressure | 35,000 psi | 34,084 psi |
| Recoil | 5–8 ft·lb | 3–5 ft·lb |
| Eff. range | 50 yd | 50 yd |
FAQs
- Is 9mm Luger faster than 9x21mm IMI?
- 9x21mm IMI is faster — up to 1,280 fps versus 1,250 fps.
- Does 9mm Luger hit harder than 9x21mm IMI?
- 9x21mm IMI carries more muzzle energy (450 vs 400 ft·lb).