Monday, August 18, 2008
Adequate Cartridge
Lately I've been thinking some about how a newbie would choose an adequate cartridge for self-defense, other than word of mouth. It's probably difficult for the person that isn't a gunnie like I am. So I've been looking at numerical values like energy, power factor, etc. comparing them to "tribal knowledge" for typical handgun cartridges. I'll publish the results here when I'm done.
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2 comments:
The acceptable cartridges list was longer when there was an advantage to the revolver over the auto. That advantage has disappeared; a Glock is every bit as reliable as a revolver, and in several cases, moreso. Now you're paying a price in lessened capacity. That being the case, the choices become much easier: 9mm Parabellum, .40 S&W, and .45ACP. The 9 holds lots of bullets, the .40 and .45 make bigger holes, but with fewer rounds in the magazine. All of them will work, but here's the Overarching Truth: handgun rounds poke holes. Rifle rounds tear stuff up. Be aware that a handgun is a compromise of portability and power.
My work includes some lesser auto and typical revolver cartridges. How does gramps old 38 compare? How about Mom's little 25?
Handgun choices and therefore cartridges are always a compromise. For those that cannot or will not practice on a regular basis, the old double action wheel gun may still be the best choice. The same holds true for weak hands. The Boss can't rack the slide on any auto I own.
"Be aware that a handgun is a compromise of portability and power."
Words of wisdom. My first recommendation for home defense is a shotgun, though most ignore me there.
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