While I disagree with it and have not seen reliable evidence, SOME Korean War vets believed their .30 caliber M1 Carbine rounds were not as effective against winter-clothing clad enemies. Again, I think it's folklore, but there must be some truth to this widespread belief. Perhaps the larger target meant the puffier clothing resulted in misses and not hits. Dunno.
I would agree, but we need to factor in they were shooting at combat distances. Shooting at a swarm of Chicoms coming over a hill 300 yards distance. They may just have bounced off the thick clothing.
30-06 would be preferable.
Up close and personal is what we are talking about.
No doubt in my mind a .380 can kill at this distance.
My decision is based on the fact that all hand guns are not hitting with the velocities needed for immediate knock down. He may in fact die of his wounds, but he may also kill you in the process.
I vote for mass. Hit them with some thing heavy.
I carry them all. But I think the only real 38 cal that can knock em down reliably is the 357 magnum. Getting that in a small concealable package is a hand full.
I tried the Polymer Framed revolver in 357 Mag. WHEW!!! Hang on.
Until I got the XD's 45. I tried to carry my full size 1911. Winter I could get it done. But no chance in the summer.
I have been practicing pretty regularly with the XD's and have good confidence in it.
Another good option to look at for the carry comfort would be a 44 special revolver. 5 shots of 44 is better than 5 shots of 38.
I may be missing some thing, but most of the data that I see relating to the use of the 9's et all.
Are police dept use carrying full sized. They usually just start blasting and keep blasting. 3 guys shooting 30 plus rounds and hitting 4 or 5.
You would think since they start from the ready with guns drawn they could have a better hit ratio. But I digress.
My term of use are different, For CC I assume would be up close and personal. Want to hit hard and get away.
If I am in a different scenario. I must have screwed up and not payed attention to my surroundings.
Obviously this is just my opinion. So take what ever grain of what ever you want.
We make our own choices using what ever information we deem important.
It is a life a death decision. So choose wisely.