Choosing the Right Caliber for Wild Hog Hunting: A Comparison Between .45 ACP and 9mm
Choosing the Right Caliber for Wild Hog Hunting: A Comparison Between .45 ACP and 9mm
When hunting wild boar, selecting the appropriate caliber is crucial. This article discusses the effectiveness of the .45 ACP and 9mm rounds, based on their capabilities in stopping power, penetration, and overall performance.
Stopping Power and Penetration: .45 ACP vs 9mm
The choice between a .45 ACP and a 9mm cartridge in hunting wild boar is a common debate among outdoor enthusiasts. While both calibers have their merits, it is essential to understand their specific strengths and limitations.
.45 ACP: A More Effective Option for Wildlife
The .45 ACP is a popular choice among hunters due to its superior penetration capabilities. When hunting wild boar, it's crucial to carry cartridges that can penetrate the tough hide and muscles of these animals. Full metal jacket (FMJ) rounds or P-ball (lead-core) can provide the necessary penetration and stopping power. These rounds are designed to maintain their integrity through the target, ensuring deeper penetration and a greater chance of striking vital organs.
9mm: Better for Self-Defense but Less Effective for Boars
While the 9mm cartridge is excellent for general self-defense, it has limitations when hunting wild boar. Hollow point expanding rounds, often used for human stopping power, may not penetrate the tough hide of a wild boar effectively. This can result in less than desirable penetrative effects, leading to a higher likelihood of missed shots and potentially less effective hunting.
Revolver Options: A More Powerful Alternative
For those who are not satisfied with the performance of either the .45 ACP or 9mm, revolvers offer a viable alternative. A .357 magnum revolver with a six-inch barrel can outperform both calibers significantly in terms of both power and accuracy. Larger semi-automatic guns are often less manageable due to their size and recoil, making them less suitable for hunting.
44 Spl Revolver: An Option for Experienced Hunters
For more experienced hunters, a 44 Special revolver loaded with hard cast semi-wadcutters can be an effective choice. However, it is recommended to use the .45 ACP as a very distant third choice. It is wise to practice with a revolver before considering it as a serious hunting tool.
Energy and Recoil Considerations
The .45 ACP generates 370 foot-pounds of energy at the muzzle, while the 9mm produces 330 foot-pounds. These energy levels might be sufficient for a two-legged critter but may not suffice for a larger and more powerful animal like a wild hog. Large hog hunters often prefer calibers that generate over 900 foot-pounds of energy, such as the .44 magnum or the .454 Casul. The Smith Wesson .44 magnum, for instance, generates over 900 foot-pounds of energy from a 4-inch barrel, while the .454 Casul can generate more than 1800 foot-pounds from a 7.5-inch barrel when combined with proper ammunition and equipment like Mag-Na-Port.
Conclusion
When it comes to hunting wild boar, the .45 ACP and 9mm calibers have their pros and cons. While the 9mm is suitable for general self-defense, the .45 ACP is better suited for hunting due to its superior penetration and stopping power. However, for the most effective results, using a revolver or a larger caliber like .44 magnum or .454 Casul is highly recommended. Always prioritize practice and understanding the characteristics of your chosen firearm to ensure successful and ethical hunting.