These cartridges are great choices for self-defense.
Do you want a 45 ACP or a 9mm pistol?
Frankly, why not consider 10mm vs 9mm vs 45 ACP for your needs?
When you select a chambering for your self-defense pistol, make sure you get high-quality defensive ammo like these Hornady rounds for theSpringfield XD-E.
45 ACP vs 9mm
Have you considered 9mm vs 45?
9mm recoil is less than the .45 Auto, but the 45 ballistic performance is better for stopping power.
9 vs.45
You already know that you cant go wrong with either of these classic calibers.
But its a debate that continues to create controversy among shooting enthusiasts everywhere.
Each round has its pros and cons when compared, yet each remains a staple among firearm fans.
In this category, the advantage belongs to the 9mm.
Ensure the pistol and chambering you have picked fit you well, and that you can use them effectively.
Size and weight of the gun matter when calculating recoil.
When launched from similar guns, the recoil advantage will go to the 9mm.
And this combination is also a perfect gun for brand new shooters to start with.
Whether you select .45 ACP or 9mm, choosing a high-quality gun you can shoot well is a must.
You will find ample quantities everywhere from big-box retailers to even the smallest local gun shop.
So, for 9mm vs. 45 price, the advantage goes to the smaller round again.
If cost is a concern, keep this in mind.
Its lighter recoil makes follow-up shots quicker, and the smaller size gives 9mm pistols additional capacity.
Additionally, there are more concealed carry pistols made in 9mm than in .45 ACP.
You are therefore more likely to find a pistol that fits your needs in 9mm.
For example,the wildly popular Springfield Hellcatis only available in 9mm .45 is not even an option.
Outdated Data?
So with greater mag capacity and the lighter carry weight, the 9mm benefits are easy to argue.
I shot larger calibers through many of my competitive years.
My first competition gun was a 1911 .45 and I loved it!
Eventually though, over several decades, I developed tendinitis in both elbows.
The .45 regularly is considered to have more stopping power than a 9.
Its a big reason why it was adopted alongside the 1911 for U.S. military service back in the day.
Note Not all of us agree about the stopping power of the .45 vs. that of the 9mm.
You should also read Fred Mastisons articleWhat is the Best Caliber for Self-Defensefor another perspective.
Many Spec Ops groups did not change, and retained the .45 for its greater power.
Team Springfield CaptainRob Leathamsays, My position on this subject is well documented: I like the .45.
But he does have a preference when carrying for self-defense.
He likens the .45 ACP v 9mm debate to hunting.
Given the choice, I will pick the bigger bullet with more power every single time.
Magazine capacity alone cannot and will not substitute for power and accuracy.
Stay tuned…
American as…
Apple pie, baseball, bald eagles and the .45 ACP!
This cartridge has a proven track record in America that dates back over a century.
Supply of this cartridge should also be high.
Though a 9mm pistol will hold more rounds, the .45 ACP definitely packs more of a punch.
[Last updated: May 9, 2024]
Go to forum thread
