TexasCHLforum.com

Hoss:
The big-and-slow v. small-and-fast debate will go on as long as firearms are carried for self-defense. That debate centers on the effectiveness of the round, more so than over-penetration.

As for over-penetration, 9mm FMJ's have a reputation for over-penetrating, but I'm not at all sure it's deserved. However, one of the benefits of a good hollow point round is a decreased chance of penetrating the target. A good 9mm JHP round isn't likely to fully penetrate a target, assuming you get a solid hit, i.e. not what the old western movies called "a flesh wound." Stephen Camp's excellent web site has some good reports, tests and photos of various ammo, including hollow points.

Which side of the debate to I fall on? .45 ACP of course! But I have to say, Carlson1's .38 Super sure has me thinking about a 9X23 Commander for a "summer gun."

Chas.

I really shouldn't post this, but I'm going to do it anyway. Carlson1, a 9X23 pushes a 125gr. bullet around 1450 fps pretty easily and without a ramped barrel, if you use 9X23 brass. These are ballistics equal to the much vaunted .357 Mag, 125 gr. JHP.

I have a Springfield .38 Super and I've shot 9X23 in it without any problems. Accuracy is also good. That said, there are an equal number of people who say not to shoot 9X23 in a .38 Super barrel.

If you're interested, take a look at the 9X23 Section of http://www.pistolsmith.com There is some good information on this cartridge. Note: 9X23 if offered in very limited variety in factory ammo, so it too is more of a handloader's cartridge.

Chas.