Originally Posted by 4ager
Originally Posted by WayneShaw
Originally Posted by The_Real_Hawkeye
Originally Posted by WayneShaw
Glock 36.
With modern 9mm loadings, I don't see the need for a .45 in a concealed carry handgun.


You just can't replace that sectional density. And kinetic energy.


Wayne, I respectfully disagree. On sectional density, that can be matched to the common .45 ACP loads with common 9x19 loads. The 9 may not quite make the top end .45ACP KE numbers, but they are certainly capable of getting into the same ballpark as most .45ACP loads.

If you are talking momentum, then yes, I agree because there is no replacement for mass in that equation.

That said, the 9x19 covers a lot of bases today, and especially firepower when threats are more likely than ever to be in multiples and damned well armed.


A friend of mine used to carry a 1911 with 200 grain loads. He practiced daily at his house, shooting into some sort of backstop he had made. One day he changed and shot some 230 grain loads and was amazed at how much more noticeable the impact that extra 30 grains made on the backstop. You can try and explain away penetration or whatever with a 9MM, but it aint gonna have the same effect on what receives the bullet. Sectional density is a result of the diameter of the bullet, you can't match SD with a smaller bullet. Energy comes from weight and size.

Yes they are heavier to carry than a 9MM, that's why I carry the Glock and not a 1911.