What Caliber is Best for Self-Defense?

The old answer to this question was: “Any caliber that started with a 4.” This answer is no longer acceptable and I suspect it never was by those knowledgeable about handgun personal defense.

As of today, the most popular caliber among law enforcement is most likely the .40 caliber S&W round. Is it appropriate for our own personal defense? The answer is absolutely YES, but so is the less powerful 9mm Luger. The 9mm Luger has been around since 1904 and is the choice of the elite force known as the Navy SEALS. That is a pretty high endorsement of a caliber! It actually has been around longer than the very respected .45 ACP, which goes back to 1907.

Before you believe I am pushing the 9mm as the “best” round — let me say that the best round is the one you can consistently hit the target time after time. To spend any time debating caliber sizes for self-defense is a waste of time and breath. Remember this critical point: Your shooting skills will drop at least fifty percent when you are in an extremely stressful situation such as a potential gunfight. If you are struggling with that .40 or .45 shooting at paper targets that are not shooting back at you, what happens when your skills go in the dumper?

Choose a caliber that you can shoot. AND it the target — That is the BEST caliber for self-defense FOR YOU. Don’t worry what other people say. It’s your life on the line or one of your loved ones. What they say does not matter.

Please feel free to disagree with me and post your comments. How do you feel about calibers for self-defense? What is your favorite caliber and why? Your comments may help another reader who needs help.

NEXT TIME: Which Make and Model is the Best Handgun for Self-Defense?