9MM versus 45 ACP

[ValhallaMilitaria]

True, but something like a high velocity .223 can make holes that would cause a surgeon to swear like a drunken sailor...Bodes

Like the .357, the 5.56/.223 derives its power from it's velocity. The .357 does best when fired from a rifle barrel or even a carbine barrel. I agree with the have one of each concept with the 9mm/.45 issue. On that note consider having weapons that would utilize the following rounds: 30-06, 9mm, 45acp, 7.62x39 Russian, .223 and 5.56 (and yes, they are different) 30-30, .22 long rifle, .38 SPCL, .308 is another round that would be commonly found in a SHTF situation.

[ValhallaMilitaria]

I like both calibers and own both calibers, however, it depends on the mission set. For carry I like the 9mm. For competition shooting 9mm over .45acp, however, .38 super is popular. As for the military, the USMC bought a bunch of 1911s and are switching back to 9mm because of weight and capacity. The US Army is currently field the SIG P320 in 9mm, but with an option of .40 cal. So I will say that I love the .45 Acp, but I think 9mm wins.

And on and on it goes...que sera sera.

[ottodog8]

In most cases a handgun is a weapon of desperation. I would want to throw the biggest slug I could at such a time. As a friend who fought in Korea said "most guys who had to use pistols to defend themselves aren't alive to tell the tale"

Steve

[ValhallaMilitaria]

In most cases a handgun is a weapon of desperation. I would want to throw the biggest slug I could at such a time. As a friend who fought in Korea said "most guys who had to use pistols to defend themselves aren't alive to tell the tale"

Steve

Or, a pistol is the thing you use to fight your way back to the rifle you never should have left behind in the first place.

[bodes]

Like the .357, the 5.56/.223 derives its power from it's velocity. The .357 does best when fired from a rifle barrel or even a carbine barrel. I agree with the have one of each concept with the 9mm/.45 issue. On that note consider having weapons that would utilize the following rounds: 30-06, 9mm, 45acp, 7.62x39 Russian, .223 and 5.56 (and yes, they are different) 30-30, .22 long rifle, .38 SPCL, .308 is another round that would be commonly found in a SHTF situation.

And since the .223 (ala the M-16) has the tendancy to tumble, the effects of keyhole wounds can be an efficient way to tear into a body....Bodes

[Blitzkrieg70]

9mm versus 45 ACP

I have to admit that using a 155 howitzer to throw the largest amount of lead/steel at one enemy soldier sounds really awesome but I can not confirm if it is really necessary. I did 5 combat tours to Iraq and one thing I learned in combat is that you can never have too much ammo. I love the 45 ACP but I also like the idea of depending on a 15 round magazine than a 7 round magazine in case I have to rely on my sidearm. I like the idea of using a 50 BMG pistol to throw the biggest slug possible at a enemy soldier but it is not necessary and in many situations it can be very detrimental. Substantial muzzle blast, muzzle jump, and recoil can effect accurate shot placement. I think it is more advantageous to return fire with accurate, well aimed follow up shots to engage and neutralize the enemy.

[ValhallaMilitaria]

And since the .223 (ala the M-16) has the tendancy to tumble, the effects of keyhole wounds can be an efficient way to tear into a body....Bodes

Like it does so many times when fired at a car windshield where it 'keyholes' often without actually penetrating.
As for the handgun round debate...to each their own and I must take the experience of those who've 'seen the elephant' to heart.
Yes, I can see the point of those extra rounds.
That said, I would still prefer to 'field' with a .308 battle rifle and a .45 on my hip, .38 in ankle holster or boot clip.
Let us hope that we never find out who was 'right'
Eric

[Darin S.]

I like both. The 9 is great because I have carbines that take the same round. I will say that I keep the .45 close at hand around home, but it's just so I could make a fighting retreat to the gun safe if necessary.