which hasthe best stopping power? A 38cal. or a 9mm and why?

Answer 1

Both projectiles are the same size. So it comes down to which one can you load with gun powder to get the most velocity. That would be the .38 since it has a greater case capacity for gun powder.

That's a pretty simplistic answer.

Since both projectiles are the same size and weight, then stopping power comes down to velocity. You can make the .38 go faster than the 9mm simply because the .38 case is larger and will hold more powder.

Generally, the heaviest .38 round is 160 grains and the heaviest 9mm is about 125 grains. If shot at the same velocity, the heavier round has more power.

Answer 2

Not including +P ratings, the 9mm is a much higher pressure round, and therefore a far better fight stopper. The 9mm travels at a faster rate than the 38 and penetrates better. And speaking of +P, a 9mm in +P approaches the same power as a .357 magnum. The 38, due to the powders used, doesn't come near that performance, even in +P.

Answer 3

As far as heavy 9mm bullets I have seen 142 grns. In reality they are both very close. In a .38s special 2" snubby with the cylinder gap and lack of barrel .38s are out classed by the 9mm in a similarly sized auto such as the Kahr PM9.

The answer you seek is not as simple as your question. You must compare individual loads, i.e. bullet weight, type of bullet, amount of powder and firearm that each is fired from as well as velocity to get a true understanding of which is more powerful. In the end you will find that while some are heavier bullets others are faster and the same bullet will vary depending on the type gun fired from.

Both are good rounds and require proper shot placement.

Answer 4

They're so close that there can't be a generally correct answer. Things like barrel length and the specific load used are bigger factors than the difference between the two calibers.

Answer 5

both are about the same, it depends if you like revolvers or auto's. If you want an auto, get 9mm, if you want a revolver, get .38.

Answer 6

38Caliber will produce more Trauma and shocking power because of a hotter load in case capacity... Velocity and bullet design is also a major factor...

Answer 7

Depends on the typre of round your using +p, +p+ , round nose, hollow point ect. ect.

Just remember all bullets have stopping power- it's placement of the bullet that detrimines how fast the target is stopped

Answer 8

definitely the .38. my pap uses a .38 as a protection pistol and he has talked to many other people who own the same gun and they say that the .38 is a lot more powerful when it comes to protecting yourself