Originally Posted By: kpkiefer
It's also my understanding the army is looking to replace the 9mm due to a lack of stopping power they've experienced in the middle east.
As stated earlier... That is with ball ammunition. The similar "ball" ammo that is also used for military rifles & why many think the 5.56x45/223 is under powered as well. How many times on this site have you heard people say not to use FMJ on coyote (read:smaller than a human) or you will loose said coyote. Wonder why that is? Bullet design changes the "leathality" of any weapon. If our military were carrying 60gr vmax & 147gr Gold Dots doubt you would hear many of those stories. (Hint: you are not limited to your ammo choice, choose wisely)
That said... I am VERY surprised this thread has sooooo many 9mm fans. Most internet threads like this turn into a 9mm bashing.
I have a few different 9mm's. Also have a few 45's. Even have some 38 Super, 40S&W & several revolver cchamberings as well. Guns from full blown custom 1911 race guns to fully stock glocks, smiths, & even a Kahr. I have shot them all a LOT. If I knew I were going to a gunfight I wouldn't grab any of them, unless I had ample time & it was for back up. Long gun trumps any pistol ever made.
For times when a long gun isn't practical, whatever is, is the best choice. Your not likely to tote a big bulky piece no matter what chambering or caliber. A PM9 is super small (in terms of most 9mm's) and goes most places even though it only holds 7rnds (still beats the chit out of a knife). No way I can carry a full size 1911 all day everyday, most won't (at least in summer drab).
I have both a Sig 9mm & a Glock 45 nearby for a "grab" gun when I'm home. In case of an emergency, the best one is the one I can get to first. If the chits really deep, it will only be "best" till (hopefully) it gets me to a long gun.
I have shot a good bit of game with pistols. Even killed some deer with "service" chamberings. If you guys havn't, you should try them out on living breathing critters with different chambering/calibers. Some of the diffences (or simularities) maybee be eye openning & you will learn 10 fold the admission. Just make sure the mag is full when you get to deer-v/s-380.