[SigSire]

I currently own a Sig Sauer P229 Elite in 9mm for HD. I purchased it in 9mm specifically because my wife will be learning to shoot it for HD situations.

However, I'm looking for a CC gun and am leaning heavily toward the Sig P239, because of its size and the fact that I like Sigs. My real question, however, comes down to whether to get the P239 in 9mm or .40. Initially I thought I would get the .40 for a bit more punch, but I'm starting to lean toward a 9mm for the following reasons:

-- 9mm ammo (such as Gold Dot) is clearly sufficient for any real threat I might encounter;
-- 9mm holds more rounds; and
-- 9mm ammo is cheaper and I have a ton of it (would only have to stock 9mm range ammo and 9mm stopping ammo).

So, is there any compelling reason to go with the 40 instead of the 9mm?

[Mark F]

Originally Posted by SigSire

I currently own a Sig Sauer P229 Elite in 9mm for HD. I purchased it in 9mm specifically because my wife will be learning to shoot it for HD situations.

However, I'm looking for a CC gun and am leaning heavily toward the Sig P239, because of its size and the fact that I like Sigs. My real question, however, comes down to whether to get the P239 in 9mm or .40. Initially I thought I would get the .40 for a bit more punch, but I'm starting to lean toward a 9mm for the following reasons:

-- 9mm ammo (such as Gold Dot) is clearly sufficient for any real threat I might encounter;
-- 9mm holds more rounds; and
-- 9mm ammo is cheaper and I have a ton of it (would only have to stock 9mm range ammo and 9mm stopping ammo).

So, is there any compelling reason to go with the 40 instead of the 9mm?

You answered your own question... however, a .40 S&W kills more deader, makes bigger holes, and scrambles up innards better? I carry a CZ75B in 40 S&W caliber using a 12 round magazine, +1 in the pipe. That is a whole bunch of concealed killing power...

[Dillinger]

I think the 9mm with something like a 135gr or the 147gr would be sufficient for most "threat" applications. That said, I carry a .45 in 1911 because that is what I like.

The .40 S & W was supposed to be the new wonder cartridge years back, allowing for the stopping power of the .45 with the higher capacity of the 9mm. I have a Sig in .40 S & W that was my carry gun for many years and never had a single problem with it. I would recommend the right .40 round for self defense, but again, I personally carry a .45 for a reason.

JD

[Mark F]

While I do carry my .CZ75B 40 S&W most of the time... I also carry my P345, 45ACP quite often. There's just something about that BIG BORE I like, even if I do carry less rounds in it. My P345 actually conceals better as it's a lot lighter weight.

[CA357]

I have reduced my handgun calibers to 9mm and .45ACP. My wife has a S&W model 60 for SD/HD, so I keep some .38's and .357's around for her. Personally, I have never been able to justify having a .40 caliber.

[robocop10mm]

The "on paper" ballistics comparison implies the two cartridges "should" have nearly the same effectiveness. Since you have plenty of 9mm ammo, I would stick with the 9. Not a dang thing wrong with a 9. Shot placement is what really matters 99% of the time anyway.

[sinzitu]

Originally Posted by robocop10mm

Since you have plenty of 9mm ammo, I would stick with the 9. Not a dang thing wrong with a 9. Shot placement is what really matters 99% of the time anyway.

x2 + practice practice practice... with whatever handgun you choose. The P239 is a good choice.

[SigSire]

Thanks guys.

I appreciate the confirmation. I wanted to make sure I wasn't overlooking anything.

[Bighead]

Originally Posted by SigSire

-- 9mm ammo (such as Gold Dot) is clearly sufficient for any real threat I might encounter;
-- 9mm holds more rounds; and
-- 9mm ammo is cheaper and I have a ton of it (would only have to stock 9mm range ammo and 9mm stopping ammo).

So, is there any compelling reason to go with the 40 instead of the 9mm?

+1 for Mark F. You answered your own question here as far as I am concerned.

In my opinion there is an advantage to the .40, but not one so great that it overrides your stockpile of 9mm ammunition.

Consider Speer Gold Dot Hollowpoints:

124 grain 9mm +P
At the muzzle: 1220 fps & 410 foot lbs energy.
At 50 yards: 1085 fps & 324 foot lbs.

180 grain .40 S&W
At the muzzle: 1025 fps & 420 foot lbs energy.
At 50 yards: 956 fps & 365 foot lbs.

Interesting article for DOJ about handgun wounding effectiveness:
http://www.firearmstactical.com/pdf/fbi-hwfe.pdf

[SigSire]

Very interesting attachment, BH.

Thanks.