9mm VS 45 ACP | The 45 Holds More Energy At 100 Yards

Published on February 14, 2026
Duration: 5:03

This guide details a ballistic comparison between 9mm and .45 ACP calibers at 100 yards, utilizing a LabRadar for precise velocity measurements. The analysis, presented by an instructor with high authority, highlights that .45 ACP retains more energy at distance despite lower muzzle velocity. The data demonstrates practical insights into terminal ballistics for handgun cartridges.

Quick Summary

Expert ballistic analysis shows the .45 ACP 230-grain XTP load retains more kinetic energy at 100 yards (approx. 356 ft-lbs) than the 9mm 115-grain XTP load has at the muzzle (approx. 362 ft-lbs). The .45 ACP also lost less energy over the distance (75 ft-lbs vs 122 ft-lbs).

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Equipment
  2. 00:30Test Parameters
  3. 01:439mm Ballistic Results
  4. 02:07.45 ACP Ballistic Results
  5. 02:35Data Analysis and Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

How does 9mm compare to .45 ACP in terms of energy at 100 yards?

At 100 yards, the .45 ACP 230-grain XTP load retains more kinetic energy (approx. 356 ft-lbs) than the 9mm 115-grain XTP load has at the muzzle (approx. 362 ft-lbs), demonstrating superior energy retention over distance.

What equipment was used to test the ballistic performance of 9mm and .45 ACP?

The test utilized a LabRadar ballistic velocity meter mounted on a tripod to accurately measure muzzle velocity (V0) and velocity at 100 yards (V100) for both 9mm and .45 ACP ammunition.

Which handgun caliber loses less energy over 100 yards?

The .45 ACP 230-grain XTP load lost less kinetic energy over 100 yards (75 ft-lbs) compared to the 9mm 115-grain XTP load (122 ft-lbs), indicating better energy retention at range.

What were the key ballistic results for 9mm and .45 ACP at 100 yards?

The 9mm 115gr XTP had a V100 of 969 fps, while the .45 ACP 230gr XTP had a V100 of 835 fps. Despite the lower velocity, the .45 ACP retained more kinetic energy at 100 yards.

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