Question: Rex, What would you say is more important in handgun ammo, SD or energy? I find that in most cases they go hand in hand, but when comparing 10mm which had higher energy to .357sig which has higher SD, I am confused on which would be considered superior. Thoughts? PS. I tried pasting links to the ammo but it wouldn't let me. -Hornady's 10mm xtp 180g has 464ftlbs@50yrds and SD of .161 -Hornady's 357sig xtp 147g has 422ftlbs@50yrds and SD of .167
Rex: Lethality is contingent upon the destruction of vital tissues, which primarily requires enough penetration reach such tissues... afterwhich, hydrostatic shock (facilitated by energy) greatly contributes to the destruction of those tissues. In simple terms: First the bullet needs to get there, then once its there it needs to destroy what it has reached. My preference would be 10mm... based on a significantly increased frontal area, contributing to a more violent hydrostatic displacement, which in the old days was known as "knock down power".... but thats just my take :-) What do you guys think?
The 10mm has a faster velocity and heavier bullet, lending itself to better penetration. The larger cross section means it has even more tissue disruption, as Rex pointed out. 10mm leads the pack in many respects. In my view, the single most important factor to consider is shot placement. Real 10mm is a stout handgun round, usually paired with a good sized weapon. If you are a pro, (like Mr. Rex) 10mm is probably the 'cats meow'. But, the 357 sig might be a little more shootable out of a smaller handgun, while retaining some of that extra downrange power. I'm kind of into 9mm myself so I take that concept a bit further. It just shoots better for me. Also, I'm reaching for a rifle as early and as often as possible if I need a firearm anyway.
Even though I carry the 10mm in a G29 and the ballistics for the round is just under the 44 mag performance..... Its all about shot placement and follow up shots. With the modern projectiles its all about placement!