Less recoil, cheaper ammo, higher capacity — read on to learn why LEOs are going back to the 9mm!
Pistols chambered for the 9mm have less recoil and are generally easier to shoot, even smaller backup models like the Springfield Armory XD-S 9mm
The 9mm is having something of a renaissance these days. Although maligned in the past due to its inability to reliably deliver incapacitating force, recent technological developments in bullet and propellant design have move the round back to the forefront for many LE departments. With its lower costs, lighter recoil and now more capable on-target performance, the 9mm is a force with which to be reckoned.
Read on to learn some specifics on why.
More 9mm pistols on the market means more options for officers. The Heckler & Koch P30 is just one that is designed to fit a wide variety of users.
1. Shootability: While some shoot the .40 S&W well, some shoot of the 9mm less precision. Those who have problems using the .40 S & W 9mm almost always run a more accurately. This is true at any distance and even when repeated calls are necessary. Shot placement is the most critical factor in stopping the threat, and the 9mm does nothing but enhance this capacity.
Many 9mm pistols, like the Glock 19 Gen4, are known for being extremely reliable and have long service lives.
2. More Guns: These days, there are more available 9mm pistol from the other, allowing the police to get everything they need to complete their hand. Agencies have more options and agents can choose their favorite weapon (when the policy allows) - produce more practice on the beach and more confident on patrol. Most large companies have a 9mm pistol in a configuration for every taste.
CZ P-09 Duty holds 19 rounds of ammunition in the magazine, with the room. That's a lot of weapons.
3. Longevity: There is usually less wear on 9mm pistols. Some government agencies have been getting as much as 100,000 guns-round 9mm service life for years. They usually last longer, need fewer repairs and less prone to breakage.
9mms are known to be reliable, even in the gun platforms as short EMP Springfield Armory 1911.
4. Increased Capacity: Most 9mm duty pistols today have a standard capacity of 17 rounds. Their extended magazines can reach 20 rounds or more while remaining manageably sized. For a well-trained officer, the greater the capacity the better, and it is always better to have ammunition you didn’t use than need ammunition you don’t have.
There are too many 9mm loadings to count, but it doesn’t take much effort to find the right load for the job. Hornady’s Critical Duty loads are designed for optimum penetration through things like heavy clothing.
5. Reliability: Pistols chambered in 9mm are generally the most reliable pistols available in those configurations most popular at police agencies. They’re also less susceptible to changes in duty ammunition and can reliably function with both practice and duty ammunition.
There are too many 9mm loadings to count, but it doesn’t take much effort to find the right load for the job. Hornady’s Critical Duty loads are designed for optimum penetration through things like heavy clothing.
6. Ammo Choices: Given the explosion in popularity of the 9mm for police and self-defense use, there is a huge variety of duty ammunition available. Whether it is a 115-grain + P at significant velocity or a 147-grain bullet at lower speeds, a quality and proven 9mm duty round is out there. It is easy to find a round that will meet the needs of your patrol division and tactical team.
Typically, 9mm ammunition is cheaper than other offerings, so officers can get more training time in with less money.
7. Cost: Especially when purchased in bulk, 9mm ammunition can be significantly less expensive. It is not uncommon to see thousands of dollars in savings at the agency level. That same lower cost also encourages officers to practice on their own as well.
