There are always debates on which is the better carry handgun, especially when it comes to survival situations. When discussing ballistics, stopping power, and practicality, two popular choices often come up: the .357 Magnum and the .45 ACP. While most gun enthusiasts understand the basic differences between these calibers, it’s valuable to examine their real-world effectiveness. This article explores their ballistic performance, practical considerations, and which may be the better choice in a true SHTF (Sh*t Hits The Fan) scenario.

Ballistics play a crucial role in firearm effectiveness. Here’s a comparison of the two calibers in terms of muzzle velocity, energy, and penetration:

• .357 Magnum
  • Muzzle Velocity: ~1,200-1,500 fps (depending on load and barrel length)
  • Energy: ~500-700 ft-lbs
  • Penetration: Generally deeper penetration, capable of defeating barriers like car doors and walls
• .45 ACP
  • Muzzle Velocity: ~800-1,000 fps
  • Energy: ~350-500 ft-lbs
  • Penetration: Less penetration compared to .357 Magnum, but excellent stopping power due to larger bullet diameter

• Self-Defense: The .45 ACP’s larger bullet creates a wider wound channel, making it a solid choice for stopping threats at close range. The .357 Magnum, however, has higher velocity and better penetration, making it effective even against lightly armored targets.
• Hunting: The .357 Magnum is the better option for hunting small to medium game due to its higher velocity and penetration.
• Tactical Use: If you anticipate the need to shoot through obstacles, the .357 Magnum offers better penetration.

Ammunition availability and cost are major factors in a long-term survival scenario.

• .357 Magnum: Less common than 9mm or .45 ACP, but still widely available. Can also shoot .38 Special, offering versatility.
• .45 ACP: More commonly found in military and civilian stockpiles but generally bulkier, making it harder to carry large amounts.

• .357 Magnum Firearms: Typically found in revolvers, which are extremely reliable but have lower capacity (5-8 rounds). Some lever-action rifles also use .357 Magnum, increasing versatility.
• .45 ACP Firearms: Found in semi-automatic pistols with higher capacities (7-15 rounds). Popular models include the 1911 and Glock 21.

• .357 Magnum: Higher recoil, which may affect follow-up shots, especially in a lightweight revolver.
• .45 ACP: Lower recoil than .357 Magnum, making it easier to control in rapid-fire situations.

In an urban survival scenario, over-penetration can be a concern:

• .357 Magnum: Higher penetration means it may go through walls, posing risks in populated areas.
• .45 ACP: Lower penetration but still powerful enough to stop threats effectively.

• .357 Magnum’s ability to shoot .38 Special adds versatility, allowing for reduced recoil practice and use in different scenarios.
• .45 ACP’s effectiveness with hollow points makes it an excellent defensive round, reducing over-penetration risks.

When preparing for an SHTF scenario, several factors must be taken into account:

• Which caliber is easier to reload? The .45 ACP’s larger case makes it slightly easier to reload manually, but both are reloader-friendly.
• Which is better for hunting? The .357 Magnum wins due to its higher velocity and deeper penetration, making it more suitable for hunting small to medium-sized game.
• Which performs better against barriers? The .357 Magnum has better penetration through obstacles like car doors and glass.
• Which is easier to carry for long periods? .45 ACP handguns generally hold more rounds and are easier to carry, while revolvers chambered in .357 Magnum are often heavier and lower in capacity.

Both calibers have strengths and weaknesses, making them viable choices depending on your needs. If you prioritize stopping power and urban defense, the .45 ACP is an excellent choice. However, if you need a versatile round that works well for both defense and hunting, the .357 Magnum is the better option. Ultimately, the best caliber for an SHTF scenario depends on your specific needs, firearm preference, and intended use.

No matter which you choose, training and preparation will be the most important factors in ensuring survival when SHTF.

Here’s Youtuber TheFireArmGuy take on this – .357 vs .45 ACP.

Results
It’s always a great match up that clearly defines the legendary stopping power of .45 ACP at shorter ranges, with .357 performing better for penetration at longer distances.

Historically, the .45 ACP was specifically designed for the US Army to be a knock down round at short distances; intended to put a man down with just a couple of shots and the impact on the masonry that you see in the video clearly shows this.

The .357 is more rifle-like and longer casing keeps a higher velocity at farther distances so this round out performed on the hardwood at longer ranges. Currently, it is a popular caliber, even hunters use it in carbines for that very good performance over longer ranges when compared to other pistol calibers.

Is it good enough for SHTF?
This question has come up many times, but when trying to figure out the logic of using one of these two calibers. (this isn’t a scientific answer) One factor will be your location and preferences. For example someone that lives in Alaska will probably go with a .44 Magnum, but someone in Michigan would use a Ruger GP100 .357. Also, this caliber is better for longer range than a .45ACP. .45 ACP users are mostly EDC personal defense carriers and those that love the big bores. For the availability of these rounds unfortunately, not as likely as a 9mm.

How about you all, which do you prefer or maybe you’re packing one of these, let us know in the comment below.

Source: TheFireArmGuy Youtube