Specialized 9mm cartridges are designed to minimize the risk of fatality compared to standard rounds. These cartridges typically employ projectiles constructed from materials like rubber, plastic, or other less penetrative substances. They might also feature reduced propellant charges, yielding lower muzzle velocities. An example includes rounds loaded with beanbag projectiles dispersed from a standard 9mm firearm.
The development and use of such cartridges are driven by a need for effective law enforcement and security tools that reduce the likelihood of death or serious permanent injury in specific situations. These situations may include crowd control, apprehension of non-compliant individuals, or self-defense scenarios where lethal force is not immediately warranted. Historically, the options available to law enforcement in such circumstances were often limited, creating a demand for more graduated force options. This type of ammunition bridges the gap between traditional lethal force and less-effective tools like pepper spray or batons, providing a more proportionate response in many scenarios. Their availability contributes to a reduction in fatalities and serious injuries during law enforcement and security operations.