45 ACP

Question
Good afternoon,

I just recently bought a Smith & Wesson M&P in 45 ACP and was curious as to what weight grain to carry for personal defense. I've carried a gun for 29 years now, and after doing some research on the computer, I'm no closer to a real definitive answer than I was when I started. Most everyone seems to swear that the 230 grain bullet is the only way to go, but in my honest opinion, I can't possibly see how a 185 grain bullet wouldn't ruin a bad guys day. I'm currently carrying the 185 CorBon DPX, and as soon as the ammunition arrives, the Remington Golden Saber in 185 +P Like I said, I can't imagine these rounds not working just fine, but I'm sure you gentleman have more recources available to you and I would truly appreciate your input.

Thank you for your time,
Michael

Answer
Michael,

I generally don't like to answer 'caliber questions' as I seem to always ignite a firestorm of discussion.  As you said, there are lots of folks out there that feel like .45 ACP in 230 gr. is the only way to go.  Sometimes that is because of research, but most of the time I fear it is because 'bigger is better'.  Unfortunately that is not always the case.

In my opinion, your 185 gr. carry ammo, if fired accurately, will definitely ruin a bad guy's day.  There are a few factors to consider in your ammo selection.  Will you need to penetrate lots of clothing (this comes into play in colder climates during the winter), would you likely need to penetrate some other object (wallboard, glass) or would you be shooting into a vehicle (penetration of steel or windshield glass).  Depending on your most likely scenario, you may want to look at links to the two ballistics studies below.  They are quite informative.

For general personal protection, don't let the caliber bigots get you down.  Your 185 gr. .45 ACP ammo will be quite effective...

Cheers,

Doug

http://www.firearmstactical.com/test_data/45acp/rem45-185gs+p-g30.htm
http://shootingmessengers.blogspot.com/2006/05/wound-ballistic-workshop.html