Here's something interesting to consider about the .40:
-- a 180gr .40 has almost the exact same sectional density as a 230gr .45
-- Penetration is largely a function of sectional density and velocity (and, ironically, slower rounds tend to penetrate futher with JHP).
One could load a reduced-power .40 pushing a 180gr at about 900fps and have a very light-recoiling round that would penetrate as well as a .45 230gr and have a negligible difference in terminal ballistics with something that kicked less than a .45 or even a 9mm.
Not to mention, you'd be able to carry a good bit more of the .40s.
I back what many have said. 40 is plentiful right now but its a high pressure round and has a lot more felt recoil. I prefer 9.
I back what many have said. 40 is plentiful right now but its a high pressure round and has a lot more felt recoil. I prefer 9.