Originally posted by Skull:
9mm = pea shooter
Though on the plus side, minimal recoil
I beg to differ, actually. When talking about personal defense, stopping power can be measured in terms of energy (as I'm sure you're aware). The 9mm might be a small round, but the energy dumped into a target can be fairly high due to its high velocity.
Really depends on the type of ammo you're using, though. For example:
CorBon 115gr. 9mm +P JHP = 466 ft/lbs of energy
Federal 230gr. .45ACP Hydra-Shok JHP = 351 ft/lbs
The .45ACP is a much larger round, but the reduced velocity makes its energy output less than even a premium 9mm round.
As for the lesser recoil, that actually is a selling point for me. I can put more 9mm rounds downrange in a shorter period of time than with a bigger caliber.
Anyways, I'll stop rambling. ;x