NCJ Number
204549
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 52 Issue: 1 Dated: January 2004 Pages: 55-59
Date Published
January 2004
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This article presents a survey for the best handgun bullet to “stop” a fight.
Abstract
A “stop” is defined as one shot to anywhere on the torso, not counting head, neck, or extremity shots; where the subject stops shooting, if shooting, or stops striking blows; and runs no more than 10 feet, if running. This study deals with what happens in the first few seconds after the shooting, and does not factor in the eventual lethality of the wound or total recovery from the wound. It is the first update of ammunition effectiveness results since the September 11 attacks. In the calibers typically used for backup and off-duty, only the results from shorter barrels are listed. When reviewing the results, the ones with the most shootings are the ones with the most statistical validity. Ten shootings were required with each particular load. The results show that the 32 ACP has a place in law enforcement, not as a backup, but as a hideout. The results from the 380 ACP are similar to the standard pressure 38 Special. The .38 Special snub is an excellent backup weapon. The best 9 mm police loads are the 115- and 124/127-grain JHPs driven to +P+ pressures. Those wanting an auto-pistol with .357 Magnum-like performance, which from duty guns had stopping power up to 96 percent, should consider the 357 SIG caliber. The .40 S&W is considered as a “bridge caliber.” The 45 ACP is an effective caliber. The large diameter and heavy weight of the bullet are the foundation for the “momentum” theory of stopping power.