Ayoob: Is .45 Still Better Than 9mm?

The article "Ayoob: Is .45 Still Better Than 9mm?" by Massad Ayoob published on The Armory Life website examines the ongoing debate between the .45 ACP and 9mm cartridges for self-defense. Acknowledging that the 9mm is more popular, Ayoob discusses its advantages in terms of recoil and cost-effectiveness in practice compared to the .45 ACP. However, he also highlights the significance of stopping power in life-threatening situations, citing experts like Jeff Cooper and Dr. Martin Fackler who argued that the .45 ACP could inflict significantly more damage than a 9mm. Despite this, current opinions from experts like Dr. Gary Roberts uphold the 9mm's stature due to its ease of use and affordability for routine training.

The article proceeds to delve into empirical tests that assessed the real-world applicability of these cartridges. The discussion involves a shooting sport comparison using bowling pins, where the 9mm showed marginally faster performance in timed events. Ayoob personally tested the two calibers using Springfield Armory 1911 pistols and noted that while there was a slight advantage in speed for 9mm, the difference was minimal. He emphasizes that shot placement is vital, and the lighter recoil of 9mm could give shooters, especially less experienced ones, a better chance of consistent accuracy. Ayoob concludes with scenarios of individual shooter tests, underscoring that measuring personal effectiveness through practice is crucial in choosing between the two calibers.

The key takeaway from the article is that selecting the appropriate caliber should be a personal choice, grounded on individual capabilities and experiences. Ayoob advocates for testing under varied conditions to determine which caliber suits the shooter best, rather than relying solely on theoretical or general assumptions. The article serves not only as a guide for choosing between 9mm and .45 ACP but also as a broader commentary on personal preparedness in defensive handgun situations. For a comprehensive understanding of Massad Ayoob's insights, you can read the full article Ayoob: Is .45 Still Better Than 9mm?.