Choosing the right caliber for self-defense isn’t just about stopping power or capacity. It’s about recoil, ergonomics, penetration, training, and the reality of the situation you may face. While some calibers may have iconic reputations, others quietly outperform them in real-world encounters. Let’s dig deep into some of the most commonly carried calibers – and why you might be making the wrong choice.
.22 LR: Light, Easy, and Often Too Little
The .22 Long Rifle has its place – but self-defense probably isn’t it. This rimfire round is lightweight, low-recoiling, and great for training new shooters. It’s affordable and allows for rapid follow-up shots, which is why many beginner classes start with it.
But when it comes to self-defense, the .22 just doesn’t cut it. Its terminal performance is inconsistent, and it often fails to immediately incapacitate an attacker. Sure, it can kill – but often slowly and painfully, and not before the threat could do harm. If you’re thinking of .22 for concealed carry, it’s time to upgrade.
.380 ACP: A Step Up, But Still Not Quite There
The .380 ACP, also known as 9mm Short, offers more stopping potential than a .22. It delivers decent terminal effects at close range and is much easier to shoot than larger calibers. It’s a common choice for smaller carry guns, and many people with low hand strength or recoil sensitivity choose it as their EDC (everyday carry) round.
While .380 is definitely viable, it’s still limited. The lower velocity and lighter projectile mean it won’t perform as well through barriers or thick clothing. It also costs more than 9mm in many cases and often offers reduced capacity. It’s a solid compromise – but there are better all-around options.
9mm: The Gold Standard for Modern Carry
If there’s one caliber that’s struck a balance between power, recoil, capacity, and cost, it’s the 9mm. From law enforcement agencies to special forces units, the 9mm has become the global standard for a reason. Its ballistics are solid, its recoil is manageable for most shooters, and modern ammunition has significantly closed the performance gap with larger rounds.
9mm gives you more shots per magazine, lighter carry weight, and more affordable practice ammo – all while delivering real-world effectiveness. From compact carry pistols to full-size duty guns, 9mm is king because it just works. If you’re carrying anything else without a very specific reason, this might be your sign to switch.
.40 S&W: The Former Favorite Fading Fast
Once considered the ideal compromise between 9mm and .45 ACP, the .40 S&W is now slipping into obsolescence. Designed as a shortened 10mm for easier recoil management, .40 had its heyday when law enforcement needed something with more punch than the 9mm of the 1990s.
But times have changed. Modern 9mm loads outperform older .40s in many ways, with less recoil and more capacity. The snappy recoil of .40 makes follow-up shots more difficult, and ammo costs more with fewer rounds per magazine. Unless you’re already invested in a .40 setup, there’s little reason to carry one in 2025.
.45 ACP: The Cult Classic That’s Too Much (For Most)
There’s a reason people call .45 “God’s caliber.” It served through two world wars and has a devoted following. The .45 ACP hits hard, creates large wound channels, and has legendary status in American gun culture.
But let’s be honest – it’s heavy, has low capacity, and produces stout recoil. Many .45 pistols are bulky and harder to conceal. And while the stopping power is real, so is the tradeoff in weight and comfort. Unless you’re committed to open carry or are deeply loyal to the 1911 platform, the .45 may be more of a burden than a benefit.
10mm Auto: Powerhouse with a Purpose
If you’re venturing into bear country or need a true magnum-level handgun round, the 10mm Auto is a worthy candidate. It punches harder than .40 and 9mm by a wide margin and has excellent penetration. It’s ideal for hiking, outdoor defense, and hunting backup.
But this comes at a cost – recoil is fierce, guns tend to be larger, and ammo is expensive. Most shooters will struggle with rapid, accurate follow-up shots under stress. For EDC in urban or suburban settings, 10mm is often overkill. But for the right situation? It’s a beast.
Recoil Matters More Than You Think
Terminal ballistics get all the attention, but recoil is just as important. If you can’t shoot your chosen caliber accurately and quickly under pressure, it’s a liability. A 9mm that you can shoot well beats a .45 you flinch with or a 10mm you can’t control.
Recoil sensitivity isn’t just for beginners. Even experienced shooters may choose a lighter-recoiling round for faster follow-ups and tighter groupings in real encounters. Don’t pick a caliber just because it’s powerful – pick one that you can train with and master.
Capacity Can Be the Decider
Caliber wars often overlook one big factor: how many rounds you’re carrying. In the real world, people often miss under stress. More rounds means more chances to get it right. The difference between a 7-round .45 and a 15-round 9mm can be life-saving.
Smaller calibers like .380 and 9mm allow for higher capacity in more compact packages. That’s a big deal in self-defense situations, especially with multiple attackers or if you can’t reload. Carry what you shoot well – but carry enough of it.
Shot Placement Still Reigns Supreme
No matter what caliber you choose, shot placement is everything. A well-placed round from a 9mm beats a poorly placed .45 every time. This is why training is critical. You need to be able to draw quickly, aim under stress, and land your shots where they count.
Larger calibers may hit harder, but they also tend to slow down practice due to cost and recoil fatigue. With 9mm, you’re more likely to train more often – and that alone makes it a better defensive choice for most people.
Don’t Ignore Training Tools
There’s nothing wrong with starting on .22 or carrying a .380 if it gets you to the range more often. For some people, especially those with physical limitations or recoil sensitivity, those calibers may be the best choice available.
However, make sure that’s a temporary stop on your journey, not the destination. The best caliber for defense is one that lets you train realistically and defend effectively. Keep improving. Keep upgrading.
The Case for Consistency
If you own multiple guns, sticking to a single caliber – especially for handguns – simplifies your life. You only need to stock one type of ammo, and your shooting experience transfers easily between guns. For most people, 9mm is the logical center of that universe.
Buying for family members or recommending calibers to new shooters? Consider keeping everyone on the same caliber path. That way, you can share mags, ammo, and training resources more efficiently.
What You Should Carry
Here’s the bottom line: if you’re carrying anything other than 9mm, you should probably reconsider – unless your situation demands otherwise. It’s the best all-around caliber for most people in most environments. It offers manageable recoil, solid terminal performance, high capacity, and broad ammo availability.
Yes, .380 works in a pinch. Yes, .45 has a storied legacy. And yes, 10mm is a tank stopper. But none offer the same balance as 9mm. It’s not about ego or nostalgia – it’s about what works best when your life is on the line.
Caliber Is Personal, But Not Arbitrary
The best caliber for you depends on your skill level, your body, your environment, and your mindset. But too often, people stick with “what they heard was good” instead of evaluating the real-world data.
If you haven’t rethought your carry caliber in a while, now’s the time. Whether you’re upgrading from .22 or stepping back from .45, make the choice that gives you the best odds. And remember: no caliber will save you if you don’t train with it.
Pick smart. Train hard. Stay safe.
Ed spent his childhood in the backwoods of Maine, where harsh winters taught him the value of survival skills. With a background in bushcraft and off-grid living, Ed has honed his expertise in fire-making, hunting, and wild foraging. He writes from personal experience, sharing practical tips and hands-on techniques to thrive in any outdoor environment. Whether it’s primitive camping or full-scale survival, Ed’s advice is grounded in real-life challenges.