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I agree that the .45 has the numbers. But, against animal/human targets, it's penetration, organ and nerve damage, and blood loss that get the kill. My 5% figure was the calculation some time ago (FBI?) of the percentage of One-Shot Stops (where the target went down with one round). The 9mm can come close to the .45 in that area. When it comes to penetration of harder targets (windows, doors, walls), bullet weight, diameter, design and velocity become more important.

Ya know...interesting that you should bring this up. :-) Awhile back, I had a friend say something like, ".45 ACP or DIE!". I thought to myself that I wasn't so sure I was of the same mindset. I like the .40 S&W a lot. It's ballistics are IMPRESSIVE. So I dug up a big spread of data on the 9mm, 40 S&W, and .45 ACP. All in all, it wasn't worth arguing about. Nothing like arguing the differences between (rifle rounds) .243 Win, and .300 WinMag!

Sorta like splitting hairs really....especially (as you well pointed out!) with the advancement in bullet design, and composition.

I'll be perfectly honest....I've got a Browning HP chambered for the .40 S&W and I REALLY like that weapon. I can't recall it EVER having jammed. BUT...it's got a wicked snap to it! ...and all my kids hate it for this reason. They would rather shoot the .45. :-)