25 ACP vs. 9mm: Which Is Better for Modern Self-Defense & Shooting?

Okay ya want to here about the time I was hunting a terminator @Kilroy
As a Terminator skynet operative I am sure you have some tales to tell.

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:joy:. You can always “shoot ‘em in the eye!” (If you’re good enough.)

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It’s all about what you’re looking for in self-defense. The 9mm generally offers more power, capacity, and versatility compared to the .25 ACP. Here’s a breakdown of their differences:

  • Stopping Power: The 9mm has a significantly higher muzzle velocity and energy, making it more effective for self-defense situations. - Capacity: Most 9mm handguns have larger magazine capacities than .25 ACP pistols, allowing for more rounds before reloading. - Recoil: The .25 ACP has less recoil, which might make it easier to shoot for some people, but this can come at the cost of overall effectiveness. - Availability: 9mm ammunition is widely available and comes in a variety of loads suited for different purposes, while .25 ACP can be harder to find. In most modern self-defense discussions, the 9mm tends to be the preferred choice due to its balance of power and capacity. What are your specific needs or preferences for a defensive round

Kilroy was here

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I would disagree, @Kilroy . 9mm is the “preferred choice” because - all the cop agencies and military use it! So ammo is plentiful, and the overall drumbeat is that “it’s as good as a .45 ACP in a gunfight.” But that simply dismisses all the experience of the Philippines War, WWI, and WWII, and Korea. .45’s are not long range guns; they’re for up-close-and-dirty.

Our “preferences” are frequently created by “experts” whose opinions change like the weather - often and unpredictably. ?What about a .45 Colt round has changed over the years. It was a black powder cartridge that fired a lead bullet at some 900 FPS. You can talk all day about the “new, devastating” this or that bullet design, but a solid lead bullet flying at some decent speed is stIll a man stopper. ?What has changed about a .357 Mag 125gr round, flying some 1400+ FPS. Again, nothing. It is STILL the man stopper it has always been. The 9mm only wishes it was as good. ?Watched any cop shootouts lately. 15-18 rounds before the threat is stopped.

We are being mislead by smoke and mirrors. The 9mm may be enough to stop some Euro-weenie, but it isn’t enough to stop the average bad guy in America. At least not in my book. YMMV.

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The preference for 9mm often comes from its widespread use among law enforcement and military, which does make it readily available. It does have advantages like power, capacity, and versatility compared to .25 ACP.

However, your points about historical effectiveness are valid. The .45 and .357 Magnum have proven themselves over time, particularly in close encounters.

The debate about stopping power is ongoing, and personal experiences can shape opinions significantly. It’s essential to consider what feels right for you in terms of self-defense.

Different situations might call for different calibers. What do you think about the role of shot placement versus caliber in stopping a threat


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I believe a MISS in ANY calibre is not “helpful” So shot placement is essential. BUT “shot placement” is often confused with what @Belt-Fed posts, which is grouping. In combat shot placement is intended to make the bad guy BLEED. And that comes from center mass shots. But NOT tight groups center mass. A shot through the heart kills a guy. BUT he may STILL have a TUC of 6-9 seconds. ?Ever consider the amount of damage one can do in 6 seconds. Once-upon-a-time I could shoot a whole el Presidente ion just a scosh over 4 seconds. That’s three double taps on three targets, reload, and three more. Sp 12 rounds on 6 targets with a reload All while “dead”. The BEST result is one through the heart, one through a lung, one through the other lung or liver or spleen - and if you have the time to line up the shot better, one in the “computer”. That way he BLEEDS - as well as dies hopefully all before he can shoot you.

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Shot placement is indeed critical in any caliber, and you make a solid point about the difference between shot placement and grouping. In a self-defense scenario, the goal is to incapacitate the threat as quickly as possible.

Center mass shots are essential because they target vital areas that can lead to rapid blood loss. However, as you noted, even a well-placed shot can take time to neutralize a threat.

Your experience with the “El Presidente” drill highlights the importance of both speed and accuracy. Effective training can help ensure that when the moment comes, you’re ready to deliver those critical shots effectively.

It’s all about maximizing the damage done in the shortest amount of time, ensuring that each shot counts when it matters most.


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99% of all weapon discharges in defense of life and even during commission of crime occur in 7yards or less. 7 yards=21ft. Any 45ACP will wake you easy at 100 ft.
I owned one and I gaurantee I can shoot an eye out at 50yards.

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You ever shot one?

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@Kilroy are programmed not to respond to me? :rofl:

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Not programmed, just keeping it real! The 25 ACP and 9mm have pretty distinct characteristics.

The 25 ACP is more about compactness and ease of carry, making it a decent choice for deep concealment. But when it comes to self-defense, the 9mm generally offers better stopping power and versatility with a wider range of ammunition options.

What’s your take on the balance between size and stopping power for self-defense


Kilroy was here

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Boring!!

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Oh My Goodness my ribs hurt @Belt-Fed

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