9mm, 40 S&W, 45 acp | Which One Should You Carry?

Published on June 4, 2024
Duration: 11:15

This video compares 9mm, .40 S&W, and .45 ACP for concealed carry, emphasizing that shooter proficiency is paramount. While terminal performance and recoil control are factors, the instructor highlights that energy levels between standard loads are often negligible. The choice ultimately depends on individual preference, capacity needs, and recoil management.

Quick Summary

The most critical factor in choosing a concealed carry caliber is shooter proficiency. While energy levels between standard 9mm, .40 S&W, and .45 ACP loads are often negligible, consider capacity and recoil control. Ultimately, the best carry round is the one you shoot best.

Chapters

  1. 00:57Introduction: Choosing Your Carry Caliber
  2. 01:30Caliber Comparison Setup: 9mm, .40 S&W, .45 ACP
  3. 02:11Testing Methodology: Chronograph & Shot Timer
  4. 03:27Chronograph Results: Velocity & Energy Readings
  5. 04:46Energy Calculations: 5-Shot Totals
  6. 05:41Timed Shooting Drill: 9mm Performance
  7. 06:22Timed Shooting Drill: .40 S&W Performance
  8. 06:35Timed Shooting Drill: .45 ACP Performance
  9. 07:00Drill Analysis: Shooter Proficiency vs. Caliber
  10. 07:35Key Takeaways: Caliber vs. Skill
  11. 08:16Factors in Caliber Selection: Capacity, Terminal Performance, Recoil
  12. 09:09Conclusion: There's No Single 'Best' Carry Round

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most important factor when choosing a concealed carry caliber?

The most crucial factor is shooter proficiency. You must be able to shoot the firearm accurately and effectively. Even the most powerful caliber is useless if you cannot hit your target reliably. Therefore, choose a gun you shoot well, regardless of its chambering.

How do the energy levels of 9mm, .40 S&W, and .45 ACP compare for concealed carry?

In standard Federal HST loadings, the energy levels are surprisingly close. While .45 ACP is often perceived as more powerful, this test showed 9mm and .40 S&W producing comparable or slightly higher total energy over five shots. The differences between standard loads are often negligible.

What are the key considerations when selecting a carry caliber besides terminal performance?

Beyond terminal performance, consider capacity (narrower rounds like 9mm offer more rounds in a given magazine size), and recoil control. The recoil impulse varies, with .45 ACP often having a push, while 9mm and .40 S&W are closer, though individual perception can differ.

Does a wider bullet always mean better terminal performance for self-defense?

Not necessarily. While a wider, expanded bullet from a .45 ACP has more frontal surface area, it may penetrate less than a narrower, faster 9mm round. There are trade-offs: a wider bullet might penetrate shallower, while a narrower one penetrates deeper.

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