[GunRunner]

Ok I was reading a post that was comparing 9mm 357, 38. The jist was that the 357 was better because essentially they are the same size bullet, the 357 has greater muzzle velocity so it causes more damage.

My question is which more important the size of the bullet or the speed in which it travels? Does a slow heavy round say 230gr fmj .45cal that travels at 750-850 fps going to do less or more damage than say a 68gr .45 cal that travels at 1800 fps? Which is the most important, size, weight, or speed?

[marc29th]

There is probably a mathematical formula that factors all 3 variables to come up with the perfect round.

[USEBOTHHANDS]

Originally Posted by marc29th

There is probably a mathematical formula that factors all 3 variables to come up with the perfect round.

F = m x a

Force = mass x acceleration

Force in newtons or ft-lbs
mass in kilograms
acceleration in m/(s²)

google Newton's 2nd Law for a more detailed explanation of physics of accelerated objects

[c3shooter]

It is actually a phenomenon called a temporary wound channel- the hole that is made in you opponent is larger than the diameter of the bullet. Bigger the TWC, more damage to opponent.

The bullet MUST penetrate deep enough that the TWC reaches vital parts of the body (think in 3 dimensions here)

For energy, it is not simply mass times acceleration- it is mass times speed SQUARED- so the faster bullet carries an advantage- AGAIN with the limit that the bullet MUST penetrate.

Do not ever think that a handgun is going to "knock" a person head over heels. If it did, action vs reaction would mean it had already knocked the shooter head over heels.

[thdrduck]

E=mc2

Albert

[USEBOTHHANDS]

Originally Posted by thdrduck

E=mc2

Albert

nah, that's the theory of relativity...........theory that space and time are "relative" to one another and the speed of light is a constant (in the vacuum of space) to all observers

[gunback]

It is actually a phenomenon called a temporary wound channel- the hole that is made in you opponent is larger than the diameter of the bullet. Bigger the TWC, more damage to opponent.

The bullet MUST penetrate deep enough that the TWC reaches vital parts of the body (think in 3 dimensions here)

For energy, it is not simply mass times acceleration- it is mass times speed SQUARED- so the faster bullet carries an advantage- AGAIN with the limit that the bullet MUST penetrate.

Do not ever think that a handgun is going to "knock" a person head over heels. If it did, action vs reaction would mean it had already knocked the shooter head over heels.[quote].

That is why the 40 S&W round was designed. To give it speed closer to 9 mm, but have mass close to 45 ACP.

[gunback]

I did the quote thing wrong sorry the top was quoting C3shooter

[gunback]

A well placed 22 shot can do just as much if not more damage then larger calibers

[GunRunner]

Originally Posted by trip286

The best gun for self defense, the best caliber, is the one you are most comfortable with and can accurately shoot in a high stress situation. Even if this is only a humble little .22lr, you have found a winner.

I understand shot placement is key, but that taken out of the equation, which is more important to have, a fast and light or slower and heavier? If both round were to strike similar target at the same area which round would do more damage?