Systems, methods and apparatus are provided through which in some implementations an ammunition cartridge includes a cartridge casing having a longitudinal center axis, a powder pocket positioned adjacent to the cartridge casing, a piston bore positioned adjacent to the powder pocket, a piston in the piston bore, and a payload bay positioned adjacent to the payload bay, wherein the piston is not coupled to the cartridge, wherein the piston is in contact with the payload bay wherein a diameter of the powder pocket is less than an inside diameter of the cartridge casing to provide a reduced velocity to the payload.