38cal vs 9mm which has the most firepower? And why?

Answer 1

Fire power? Would have to be the 9mm. Simple as to why, 15 round mag compared to six shot revolver.

Answer 2

I would have to say that they both have advantages - depending on if you want a revolver or automatic.

The 9mm has a higher velocity and spins faster resulting in more penetration thru body armor.

The .38 Sp has more shock power and more likely will put an adversary down with less shots.

The only reason I would pick the 9mm is magazine capacity, the rimmed cartrige of the 38 is almost exclusively in revolvers that carry 5-8 rounds. The 9mm can carry up to 18 (of what I have seen - Steyr GB) and the M92 of the US Military carries 15 itself.

The western world considers the 9mm to be a pop-gun, but in Europe the 9mm has as much history and legend as the storied 45ACP. Really that is why the US adopted the cartrige - because the 9mm was being used by most other countries in NATO. Supply is simpler for one cartrige over the entire force. The M92 is another story however best left for another time.

Answer 3

9mm can develop velocities well in excess of 1200 fps. A 38 Special develops velocities slightly higher than a .45 ACP.

The 9mm was favored for velocity and accuracy. The 38 Special still does not hit with any more force than a 9mm but likely less.

Now a 357 Magnum would beat a 9mm. But mass x velocity = force and 357's are designed to hit with great force and impact.

Or you use a .45 for close quarters combat. Its not fast but it'll put a criminal down period.

Answer 4

.38's have less knockdown power, as measured by the amount of force transferred to the target. Generally, for knockdown, large and slow is better than small and fast.

9mm's are usually automatics, meaning more rounds between reloads, and faster reloads.

Answer 5

Shot placement is the #1 factor in lethality. The 9mm is the most accurate mainstream pistol round out there; therefore it is also the most lethal.

If you equate effectiveness with "fire power," than there is your answer.

Answer 6

38 cal has more punch and is a better round for the military.