Cor‑Bon 115gr +P 9mm Test — Denim & Gel, Taurus GX4

Overview

The Cor-Bon 115-grain +P hollow-point is a fast and powerful defensive round built for personal protection. It is designed to expand quickly and penetrate deeply, even when fired from compact 9mm handguns.
This review takes a closer look at how it performs from a short 3-inch Taurus GX4, focusing on velocity consistency, barrier performance, and gel test results.

Test Platform and Conditions

Testing was carried out using a Taurus GX4 with a 3-inch barrel and Cor-Bon 115-gr +P hollow-point ammunition.
The setup included five recorded shots through a chronograph to measure speed and consistency. Denim barriers were placed in front of clear ballistic gel to simulate clothing layers.

Conditions were cold, with light snow and temperatures in the mid-20s°F. The short testing distance and fresh chronograph battery ensured reliable readings despite the weather.

Chronograph Results and Performance

The Cor-Bon +P rounds produced very consistent velocities across five shots.

High: 1,120 ft/s
Low: 1,110 ft/s
Average: 1,116 ft/s

These are strong numbers for a 3-inch barrel pistol. The high velocity helps the bullet expand effectively and penetrate deeply, but it can also cause over-penetration when the hollow point fails to open properly.
In short, the Cor-Bon +P maintains impressive speed and energy, giving it solid terminal potential for self-defense.

Denim Barrier Performance

Denim barrier testing revealed how clothing can affect performance.
When fired through four layers of denim, the bullets fully passed through the gel block with minimal expansion. Even with two layers, the rounds often exited the back of the test block.

This shows that heavy or layered clothing can clog the hollow point and reduce expansion. As a result, the bullet keeps its shape and drives deeper than intended.
These outcomes highlight the importance of testing defensive ammo with realistic barriers that reflect everyday conditions.

Ballistic Gel Results

Testing in bare ballistic gel showed the round’s full potential.
One shot penetrated around 12 inches with visible and even expansion. Another went past 16 inches, separating the jacket from the core.

Both results demonstrated strong energy transfer and wide wound channels. The expansion in bare gel was dramatic, confirming that this round performs best without barriers.
The jacket separation seen at higher speeds also suggests the bullet experiences extreme stress on impact.

Strengths and Limitations

The Cor-Bon 115-gr +P shines when fired from short 9mm pistols. Its high velocity gives it the power to expand violently and penetrate deeply. In clean conditions, the round shows excellent stopping potential.

However, there are trade-offs. The same speed that boosts performance can lead to over-penetration when the bullet meets resistance. Layered clothing can clog the hollow point and prevent expansion.
The test also revealed jacket separation, which can change how the bullet behaves after impact. These are important factors for anyone choosing this round for concealed carry.

Practical Recommendations

Shooters who want maximum energy and deep penetration will find this round appealing. It is especially effective for compact handguns that can still reach high velocity.

Still, every firearm and environment is different. It’s best to test this ammo in your own carry gun and with the clothing you typically wear.
If penetration beyond the target is a concern—such as in home defense—consider rounds designed for controlled expansion or more consistent performance through barriers.

Comparison with Independent Tests

Independent ballistic labs, including Lucky Gunner, have reported similar findings. Their tests often show 12–14 inches of penetration through cloth barriers, along with reliable expansion in controlled conditions.

Field testing, however, tends to produce more variation, especially through denim or heavy fabrics. The Cor-Bon +P performs well in ideal conditions but can behave unpredictably when real-world barriers are added.

These results confirm that while the Cor-Bon load is powerful, it should be matched carefully to both the firearm and intended use.

Conclusion

The Cor-Bon 115-grain +P is a hard-hitting, high-velocity round that excels in short-barreled 9mm pistols like the Taurus GX4. It produces consistent speed, strong energy transfer, and dramatic expansion in soft targets.

When barriers such as denim are introduced, expansion may drop and penetration can increase beyond ideal defensive limits. For users who understand and accept these trade-offs, this ammunition remains one of the most energetic and effective 115-grain loads available for concealed carry.

Proper testing in your own setup will ensure reliable performance and help determine if the Cor-Bon +P fits your defensive needs.