stick with 9mm as a minimum.
My personal preference too. However I was rather surprised by the quantifiable data.
.380 has a smaller sample size and 9mm Parabellum has one of the larger samples. The data points to the .380 being one of the most effective pistol rounds one can choose.
.380 ACP
# of people shot - 85
# of hits - 150
% of hits that were fatal - 29%
Average number of rounds until incapacitation - 1.76
% of people who were not incapacitated - 16%
One-shot-stop % - 44%
Accuracy (head and torso hits) - 76%
% actually incapacitated by one shot (torso or head hit) - 62%
9mm Luger
# of people shot - 456
# of hits - 1121
% of hits that were fatal - 24%
Average number of rounds until incapacitation - 2.45
% of people who were not incapacitated - 13%
One-shot-stop % - 34%
Accuracy (head and torso hits) - 74%
% actually incapacitated by one shot (torso or head hit) - 47%
If we break down the most important elements of a gunfight in terms of lethality and "shooter out of the loop" we find three things:
1. Shot Placement (Accuracy)
2. Number of Rounds in the Target Area (Bring Enough Damage to End the Fight)
3. Caliber - Only in that our Caliber needs to be large enough to be included in the statistical group above the transition point where our chances of a "one-stop-shot" double. (.380 and larger).
So to have the best chance at good outcome should you ever to defend your life or those you love...
1.
We need a pistol with good sights. Irregardless of your marksmanship skills, it is much more difficult to hit anything if we have no way of precisely gauging Point of Aim vs Point of Impact.
Although some manufactures are better than others and there is variation we will assume the manufacturer is competent enough to align barrel harmonics and design for reasonable accuracy. I encourage anyone buying a CCW to rent one at the range and shoot it before spending your money.
2.
We need capacity to place multiple rounds in the Target Area to end the fight. Our "one-shot-stop" percentages tell us that planning for a minimum of three rounds in the Target Area is required to achieve a 100% stop rate is prudent. The more rounds we can bring to the fight without having to conduct a reload, the better.
3.
Caliber needs to be .380 or larger. Although .380 is the "bottom of the scale" it is far from being the bottom performer.