I am a Brit who has lived in the US for fourty years now. One other thing of interest is that in the Buckeye Firearms study both velocity and mass increase accuracy, but again, accuracy favors calibers that can excel and one or both of these things. Or is it just a complex but unimportant piece of data, meant for people who are seriously interested in (and can mentally tolerate) the complex physics of shooting? Working with a custom 7mm Remington Magnum and 175-grain Nosler AccuBonds, I found wonderful accuracyonly to find that the muzzle velocity was slightly more than 2,500 fps instead of the 2,925 fps it should have generated. And then some more. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". It will give some confidence in its use. Primer: Boxer. I don't want to carry anything bigger. In addition to firearms-related work, Josh enjoys working with animals and researching conservation projects in his home state of Michigan. BBTI - Ballistics by the Inch :: 9mm Luger Results ATTENTION: Effective Sept 1, 2020, the BBTI Project is in "Archive Status." No further tests will be conducted, but we will maintain this site and data for the use of the firearms community. If you're really intent on a firearmgo bigger. I think That's exactly why the 9 is so popular. Thanks! New powders and more advanced bullet designs used only work for the 9mm not 45 acp or 40 S&W? 7.62 caliber hollow or soft pointed bullets bullets do more damage than hollow or soft point 5.56 millimeter. I believe you can make darn near any caliber and pistol you have just as flexible as the next caliber. Every caliber has its purpose. To actually answer the question of velocity by barrel length for 9mm Luger, and what the ideal barrel length is, namely for something like an AR-15 / AR-9 pistol or SBR, we'll discuss below. Certainly this is easy to understand with the .44 Magnum because it's increased velocity and mass produces essentially twice that of 9mm, but you can't say that about the other calibers. Well it will make holes in bad guy/rabbid dog I am confident that I can stop attack with .22LR cause I can shoot 8 rounds in about 3 secconds center body mass, palm size group. Bottom line though all are great weapons. I read most of the posts that preceded mine. Provided by Google Tag Manager to experiment advertisement efficiency of websites using their services. Whatever floats your boat. EDUCATION 101. The debate over the 9mm and .45 ACP is one of the most heated conversations in the firearms community. Not sure which one is best for you? The more energy, the more potential for damage. And the one kept loaded in the bio-lock case bedside is the Colt's Government Issue, with 2 clips of Hornady Critical Defense alongside. Im from South America and police there uses 9mm round nose, enough to kill more outlaws in 1 month that all the US police in 5 years. This will eliminate the threat on fewer rounds. Hollowpoint should (mostly) negate over penetration. I agree with you completely,I like and have both -a DW Guardian in .45 and a sig p365 9mm for carry.The choice on which to carry depends upon where I am carrying and why for that day.I believe the ability to have both options covers more scenarios.Great info BTW. These are FBI statistics. Where's the test evidence? Whilst a Glock 19 does have more capacity than a Glock 30, they are almost identical in size, with only 5 rounds difference in standard magazine capacities. Photographs and table, Territories Financial Support Center (TFSC), Tribal Financial Management Center (TFMC). We say these things and move on. Only your focused aiming and bullets. So, caliber choice. I've personally had the experience of using a Thompson .45 submachine gun (A1 army variant) full automatic. Thats a fact. Those who prefer lightweight 9mm projectiles enjoy lower recoil; If you select heavier bullets benefit from deeper penetration of the target. 3. A myth that TV and movies have given the world is that American warfighters won WWII, but really the amount of American blood contributed to the war effort was comparably insignificant -- especially compared to the Soviets. I love your Pro / Con's of each. Thats where the .357 SIG comes into play. However, it's very reasonable to say that without American manufacturing, production, and agriculture the United Kingdom would have either fallen directly to the Germans or more likely would have been starved into submission. I'm sure this was a terrible feeling for him. You must dress around your guns. Possibly the only cons of the Glock 30, compare to the Glock 19, being slightly wider grip and more recoil. For HD, I have a 12gauge but my G19 is fine. I'm carrying a 45, and it was because of the lesser penetration that I decided on it. Does it create better expansion or significant penetration? It offers a larger magazine capacity given a similarly sized firearm, And its compact nature makes it easier to carry, especially when concealed carry, Not to mention, the 9mm brings less recoil, making it an easier gun to handle especially for beginners, While the answer to this is up to debate, one thing is certain: higher muzzle velocity does equal, Unfortunately, this benefit may be completely. .45 is for nostalgia crazed red necks that can't let go of the past. And the proof he show. For reasons I can't quite explain, this particular powder just didn't get along with that rifle. I really enjoy carrying the 22 TCM, 19 rnd, 40 gr hollow points. By the time my dad made it to Korea he was already an experienced shooter. : For me any Glock is a gun that I will be aiming at the dirt, while most Sigs & S&W revolvers will be on the money. Neither round is worth anything if you can't connect with your target confidently and accurately. Facebook Your "facts" are only indisputable for you, since you clearly lack experience or any real world outcomes. What if you can't deploy your firearm in time? In dry practice, make it a habit to take a step to the left or right as the draw is occurring. I really admire the professional comments that was written. A heavy bullet going slow with the same energy as a light bullet going fast will transfer energy to the target better, but won't penetrate as well. I do just like the author says. So, get training. any lower powder grain ammo with a soft or no jacket on the led.. If not, you may shot again but not before. If a 10 round magazine is more than you would likely ever need (a homeowner), go with the 45. Physics boss: 9mm has more penetration and energy. Fast enough to hit your target and put it down. These people think the 9mm shoots magic bullets and the 45 is just slow and heavy. I don't believe that MEN can Kill the SOUL.It's GOD BREATHED Genesis 2:7. and since the "SOUL" is "GOD-BREATHED", then The SOUL is "IMMORTAL".! You think someone is going to outrun your bullet? (Technically, the bullet is fastest at the instant the explosion occurs and the bullet is expelled from the cartridge.). He pulled out a 9mm round and a 45 acp round and held them both in his hand. Ballistic coefficient is a measurement of a projectiles ability to resist air drag. I shoot 240 consistently with my 40 and would never carry a 9 unless I had to. Hi Howard, I am NO EXPERT! The campground lot got sold. With boxes of 9mm Luger rounds being 30% to 40% cheaper than .45 ACP ammo, increased range time isnt going to break your budget. And because 9mm ammo is so relatively inexpensive, it permits its shooter to practice longer and more often. Yes Ive used other peoples experiences to enhance my knowledge. I have both I like the 45 but I love the 9 mm, Agreed. Velocity / Muzzle Energy Test Results. A .357 magnum round can have similar effects. Engaging, defensive and cover fire; they all require lots of bullets. The FBI employs some smart people. All the targets, conclusion is I guess if your shooting steel targets you better use ar500 steel if you don't want to destroy them with you .45, but for self defense Whats right for me is probably a double stack micro 380 (10+ rounds) and a 1.5 stack sub compact 40 S&W (10+ rounds), but they havent invented good enough ones yet so.. Thank you, however for the work on showcasing the loadsRead more . Time to grow up and recognize the difference between feelings (nostalgia, cool factor, historical value etc) and facts. But the greater concern is, that Judges in my country do not like defensive shooting. And, if you are really concerned about penetration on hard targets, then you should probably be carrying a magnum or the .357 SIG or 10mm rounds, not a 9x19mm or .45 ACP. . Another reason for the swap, one the author forgot to mention was that, for the most part, NATO armed forces had already moved to the 9mm. Low capacity isn't your issue, so it seems that a powerful revolver would be ideal. But do please keep up the good work with the site - from a country where only the police are allowed handguns, its like a window on the free world. Ive been reading these articles for years and most of them are skewed in favor of the 9 by ammo selected for the test.They pick the hottest 6 9mm and the weakest 6 45s and shoot jello. Even if you use only factory and clock the loads, this is not news. In short, we ALL live for ever: the only question is WHERE? http://www.ballisticsbytheinch.com/megraphs/45auto.html Remember the reason for the .45. 9x19mm Parabellum is by far the most popular handgun cartridge for self-defense in the world. shoot him with a 45 that does not over penetrate and has 80+% energy transfer or 275 lbs minimum and the fight is over. When all you have is six rounds, you sure better be accurate, reloading took precious time. Very few handgun rounds will stop reliably with one shot or "knock him down." One of the BAD things about FIREARMS in AMERICA is the DEMOCRATIC LIBERALS!! Almost reaching weak .44 mag specs Take the 155gr XTP 10mm round from Underwood. I was an ATL and TL with 173rd ABN BDE LRRP 1966-67. A variation of the _gat cookie set by Google Analytics and Google Tag Manager to allow website owners to track visitor behaviour and measure site performance. It took me 30 years of my fourty being here to get it. And sure, you have to keep hitting which is much easier if they are close. Furthermore, the 9mm is more practical for the average shooter looking to spend time on the range. 300 thousands of an inch diameter more than a 9mm HST.. my 1911 short trigger pull is fast. Two were head shots. Yes you are right there is a lot more 9mm ammo than there are 45 ACP. Its not about practice - its all about the situation theyre in. Hum. Therefore, if you are using rifle cartridges for long-range hunting, you not only need to be concerned with muzzle velocity, but you should also understand the rated velocity for the distance you to target. If you looking for a slugger for something like car defense or home defense. I am ex military and I have seen way to many hiccups with autos and semi autos. Thanks, Eric! RIFLE BALLISTICS. And by the way,the famous FBI shootout was ended by one well placed round from a frickin 38special!!! ". And honestly the 357magnum puts em both to shame. For my 9mm velocity test I would use only Glock pistols. In case you actually see this, if you are wondering about self defense in the home, you need a shotgun. From Firearm Wiki: The Internet Gun Encyclopedia, Velocity by Barrel Length of Various Calibers, Firearms Chambered in 9mm (Palmetto State Armory), https://firearmwiki.com/index.php?title=9mm_Velocity_by_Barrel_Length&oldid=1702, About Firearm Wiki: The Internet Gun Encyclopedia. I will always have a 1911, because it is my favorite gun to shoot. As a civilian I shouldnt find myself in a situation in the street to have to shoot into cars and where I live by code all exterior walls are concrete. You may need to spray again so a larger can is a better bet if you can afford it. Fortunately plenty exists. I have to agree you do need both a 9mm and a 45 cal as far as comparing them I feel it is apples and oranges both are great. Basically, I believe with smaller bores you need to make use of their speeds and get a temporary wound cavity that matters (to make up for its smaller permanent wound cavity). Not in California and some other states that stop you a 10 rounds mags. You are welcome to your opinions, but the facts are indisputable. Whereas in .45, fully half of the rounds made 500 ft lb or more in a 6" barrel, and one round made better than 600 ft lb Be armed and have the gun where you can access it (LOADED) quickly. Itll help keep you consistent and on-target. Hi Holmes, you're right. Going to the store I take my 9 with 124 gr hst. Americas oldest Second Amendment News outlet. FBI dropped 0.40 not because 9mm comes even close to it just affirmative action that's all it is. This should bring a target down. No matter how much you love than one 9mm you saved up for. Scenario: Armed burglar breaks in and is standing in the area in which your child/roommate's facilities is now based behind him. Even better if you have the means and the skills to build one yourself, get to know what you're shooting inside and out! I can only say this: When your life - and the lives you protect - depend on 18 ready available bullets, youre going to wish for more. And this is all before we even talk about the lack of concealability of .45 ACP double stack. It appears that overall, the optimal barrel length for 9mm (for something like an AR-15 pistol build, SBR, or similar setup), is about 7 to 8 inches for maximum efficiency and handling, though going longer can still have benefits. I shoot one shot with a 45 and the muzzle blast brings the barrel up sometimes cocked sideways some making it slow and difficult getting the gun back on target. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. lb Muzzle Velocity ft/sec. 5 Rounds of Hell. Even if you think size > capacity or more bullets is better, you have to admit having bigger bulletsand having more bullets on tap are both worthy considerations when choosing one gun over the other. The same advancements that the 9mm has received, so did the .45. And its compact nature makes it easier to carry, especially when concealed carrying. This is an Alexa Analytics cookie that is used to track user behavior. I'm sticking with ole tried and true 1911. They're both about the same energy in most common defensive rounds between the two calibers. I would think soldiers in fire fights face similar circumstances, except with more opponents who may also have body armor, which would favor the 9mm further, since it pierces armor better. Did the "suspects" who had 9mm rounds bounce off of them happen to be wearing red underwear and a big "S" on their chest. Muzzle Energy. * Universal availability or AMMO--actually should be #1 !! Or pick up some Federal HST 185 grain 45 ACP, 1140 fps! Both produce muzzle energy levels in the 380 ft/lb to 425 ft/lb class. Last time I saw the statistics on it, most domestic self defense gun fights occur in 6 or less feet. No, it's just wrong to tell half-truths & mythologize recent historical events. haha. Also avg distance of civilian gunfights are extremely close quarters. Preferring a 9mm for higher capacity and easier recoil is one thing. My choice, since my first 1911A back in 1953, to my Glocks G21SF, G30, and G36 of today. Modern forensicss indicates a .38 Special and up is just as any other side arm aka marginal. Back in the day, there was a revolver chambered in .600 Nitro Express. just saying. 540 ft lb was the highest recorded muzzle energy for the 9mm in their testing. Statistically this is a dead heat and well within any reasonable margin of error; but remember, the 9mm and .45 ACP wound channels are essentially the same in size, so what is the difference? So, I disagree with the Taylor KO index . The _ga cookie, installed by Google Analytics, calculates visitor, session and campaign data and also keeps track of site usage for the site's analytics report. The FNX 45T and a few others hold around 15 rounds. With bigger bores, you need only worry about the reliability of your hollow point expanding (after going through material) and going 1012 inches or so in the body to avoid over/under-penetration. That is why some like the 9mm short or .380. what do you expect from them? I used .45 ACP and full load .44 Mag in competition. 45 will make a bigger hole, which can be a decisive factor in lethality. Im a little bit late to the party, but thanks for this. Speed is an important factor for ballistic performance, impacting accuracy, trajectory, energy, and penetration. The same tech that has caught the 9mm up to the 45 has made the 45 even more superior. As you can see from the data, the 9mm is heavily impacted by barrel length. Nuff said. About 7 inches. The above writing concludes that my next pistol is .45ACP (already ordered Glock 41 MOS) and if I have to ever use it (and I hope not) - it will be one shot center body mass and wait if bad guy want to do something else. He further explained that smaller shooters found the 45 to be more accurate on follow up shots due to the reduced muzzle movement. 9mm Luger rounds have a deeper penetration than other handgun calibers. I can still put a magazine full of .45 ACP right on target fast enough to get yelled at by the range officer. Today it sends your readers to the Giffords Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence." I prefer the 45 ever since the military i jus had a thing for the 45 acp although I do own a couple few 9mm's and have favorite pistols in that caliber also love my custom 17. Before 1911, soldiers hit with a 9mm were still advancing even if mortally wounded. I notice that most articles talking up the 9mm always compares the newest and best 9mm to the old slow fmj .45, not taking into account that there are now .45 with lighter projectiles and higher speeds that far and away leave the 9mm in the dust. Will a 45 penetrate body armor within 10 feet. You think that you can outshoot a cop? 30% is being nice. I carried and used the 45 ACP in the military. I recently moved to my country property and am living alone. The velocities displayed are an average taken from six readings. So you can literally grab, draw, aim and shoot. I realize these instances are rare but one things for sure i can cut a target in half with rapid shots so easily with a 1022 because of zero recoil i think i could shoot 4 rounds to 1 outta my 45. You can vaguely cite "muzzle energy" but it ultimately means nothing with so many variables. I'm still on the fence about it though. So muzzle energy is certainly real and a consideration; however, if hit in the eye with a .22LR versus hit in the arm with a 45 ACP means anything, worry about aiming over power. I'm building a couple of .45s now. I shot IPSC and IDPA 30 years ago. Killing the BODY "in this world" is MORE than Sufficient. It's quiet and very handy if you plan on silencing a weapon. +P and +P+ rounds are available as well. Muzzle Velocity. The thing you are trying to quantify is energy , which 45ACP has less of by a notable margin. I guarantee you I'll stop an attacker in fraction of the time you'll do it with a 9mm aiming center mass. In this case, the 9mm has a velocity of 1,150 feet-per-second (fps), while the larger .40-caliber bullet leaves the barrel at 919 fps. The Wild Bill Hickok method of gun fighting: rapidly draw your gun, calmly stand your ground, carefully aim and press the trigger, observe the target fall, holster your gun, turnaround and walk away.