Best 9mm ammo for self defense

[elrowe]

Does the 124gr. Golden Sabers do well for defense? I've seen a few "back yard ballistics tests" that showed them as a less than perfect performer. It could just be those tests, though. How do they do in real world scenarios [if that data is even available]?

What I like about Golden Sabers is that they usually feed pretty well, due to their design.

I've never had an FTF or FTE with 124 gr. Golder Sabers in any of my five CCW or HD 9mms. Based on all of the studies I've seen, including what MILSPEC FMJ did during my three trips to Iraq, it almost flat out doesn't matter beyond reliable function, penetration, and shot placement. The energy differences and permanent wound channel results are negligible. Frankly, I'm nearing the opinion that ball/FMJ might even be a better option (ok, so I'm a heretic...) since penetration is generally better (look at the FBI studies for my logic), and they generally are more effective when hitting bone. As far as the overpenetration-adverse, any shot with any firearm risks harm to whatever is beyond the target, so shooter awareness is the most important factor.

 

[Sam1911]

IBTL

Not if everyone can stay on bullet choice, and off the news.

Again...If something you wrote was deleted, 'dat be a hint.

 

[smalls]

No, FMJ's are not made for personal protection. With the exception of a small crowd, it's pretty universally accepted that JHP's are what should be used for self defense.

 

[rajb123]

Is it fair to say that a hollow point jacketed bullet is much more prone to break into pieces than a full metal jacket design?

Does a bullet loose energy and stopping power when it breaks apart?

I've seen several bullet/ammo tests on TV where rounds are fired into gellatin which is supposed to mimic the ballistic performance you would get in an actual self defense situation. Other tests I've seen include shots fired into an animal carcass such as a cow or pig. These usually do contain bone, but typically do not contain vital organs, blood and other connective tissue, however.

Anyway, I've always had my doubts about these tests.

 

[TimboKhan]

I am going to lock this. First, there are good threads discussing this topic that are active now. Second, though the comments got back on topic pretty quick, there is far to much emotional involvement in this case predicated by media reports of varying accuracy to keep it high road for long. Sorry people, but when i see "ibtl" comments it tells me that I am not the only one who sees the potential for disaster here.