9 mm FAR

The 9 mm FAR (Fabbrica d’Armi Romana), sometimes referenced in specialized ammunition circles, represents a unique entry within the 9 mm caliber family. Developed in the mid-20th century in Italy, the 9 mm FAR was designed to cater specifically to the needs of the Italian police and security services. Its origins tie closely to law enforcement modernization, as agencies sought a balance between manageable recoil and effective stopping power. Although overshadowed on the global market by calibers like the 9 mm Luger (Parabellum), the 9 mm FAR found its niche in Italian service sidearms and compact carbines. Its design reflects the period’s focus on producing reliable and controllable cartridges compatible with both semi-automatic pistols and selective-fire weapons.

In terms of application, the 9 mm FAR is primarily employed for self-defense, law enforcement, and target shooting. Its manageable recoil and adequate energy delivery made it ideal for police operations in urban environments, where over-penetration and excessive collateral damage were concerns. Beyond official use, the 9 mm FAR enjoys a following among civilian shooting enthusiasts and reloaders who appreciate its versatility. Its cartridge dimensions are suitable for a range of compact to full-size handgun platforms, making it a practical choice for competitive shooting and recreational plinking. Reloaders in particular find the caliber appealing due to the availability of quality brass and components, as well as the opportunity to fine-tune loads for specific firearms and shooting requirements.

When it comes to target species, the 9 mm FAR is best suited for small game and varmints, as well as defensive scenarios involving human threats. Its ballistic profile lends itself well to dispatching pests such as rabbits, squirrels, and other similarly sized animals at close to moderate ranges. Due to its limitations in terms of penetration and energy transfer, it is generally not recommended for medium or large game hunting. However, its reputation among reloaders stems from its ability to deliver sufficient terminal performance on appropriately sized targets, and for use in practical shooting disciplines. The 9 mm FAR's performance characteristics ensure that it is most effective when users remain mindful of its intended purposes and limitation.

Typical bullet weights for the 9 mm FAR range from 115 to 124 grains, closely paralleling the popular 9 mm Parabellum. However, some manufacturers have experimented with lighter bullets around 100 grains for defensive loads, and slightly heavier projectiles up to 130 grains for subsonic applications. The standard bullet diameter is 9 mm (.355 inches), and overall cartridge length closely matches that of other mainstream 9 mm rounds, simplifying reloading setup for users with existing 9 mm dies and components. Reloaders favor the caliber for its flexibility—lighter projectiles can achieve higher velocities, while heavier bullets lend themselves well to suppressor use or scenarios where deeper penetration is warranted. The cartridge operates at moderate pressures, typically between 30,000 and 35,000 psi, ensuring reliable cycling in semi-automatic platforms without excessive wear. Collectively, these characteristics make the 9 mm FAR a practical and interesting choice for reloaders seeking a blend of history, performance, and versatility in their reloading pursuits.