Handgun stopping power is real??

[sqlbullet]

This is always an interesting thread topic to watch.  I need some popcorn.

On the theoretical side, the 10mm has few peers.  It's energy budget is just plain huge compared to the other common players that will fit in a "standard" semi-auto action size.  The 45 Super gets close, and the 460 rowland exceeds the 10mm, but really needs a comp to ensure reliable function.

But, in regards to its capability as a defensive round need that energy budget to be effectively used.  And there the 10mm is at a disadvantage.  Due to the limited user base, not as much work has been done to maximize the utilization of this energy budget.  other popular rounds like 9mm, 40 S&W and 45 ACP have lots of R&D put into figuring out how to ensure their smaller energy budgets are directed into maximum tissue disruption and penetration.  The 10mm, less so.

Finally, the 10mm energy budget comes at the cost of follow up shot speed.  This can only be overcome with lots of training and a rising tide in that regard would raise all boats.  This is where drills like the bill drill and the el presidente become important.  They teach you to shoot fast.  And scoring becomes important on these as well.  The scoring is meant to be an indicator of what your "best" strategy is to maximize effect.

And, when arguing the merits of stopping power, all of these factors are important.  And the answers won't be the same for everyone.  My daughter, for instance, shoots a Browning Hi-Power in 9mm far better than she does my Glock 20.  Small hands, slight frame just means she can "score" way better with the minor round.  So, for her, the 9mm is the "better" stopper.

[Olgo]

I agree and the gun has to fit the person so for a lot of people the 9mm is ideal if not the 380 or whatever.

I'm a retired mechanic and I slapped wrenches for a living. Because of that I have strong arms and thick wrists. I learned how to shoot my 10mm where it doesn't flip my wrist but push my arm back. I keep my elbow bent and I use the Weaver stance.

I started with a 9mm and it feels like a toy so I moved on to 40sw. Some loads were snappy as heck but I got used to it. I wanted a 10mm for a long time and I finally got one a few months ago. I never looked back.

As to ballistics they are similar but the energy imparted on the target are not. They don't call the 45acp the flying ashtray for nothing and the 10mm are gonna have them wished they stayed home.