Pistol caliber to see concise reviews, ballistic figures, effective ranges, and best-use notes for defense, range, or hunting.

9 mm
(.355-.356)
(9×19 Luger, 9×18 Makarov, 9×21, .380 ACP)
Popular, versatile cartridge family – good control, effective at typical defensive and range distances.

357
(.355-.358)
(.38 Special, .357 Magnum, .357 SIG)
Classic revolver and semi-auto calibers – reliable accuracy and proven stopping power for defense or field use.

10 mm
(.400-.401)
(10mm Auto, .40 S&W)
Modern, high-energy pistol calibers – excellent penetration and power for defense, duty, or outdoor protection.

44
(.429-.430)
(.44 Magnum, .44 Special)
Big-bore revolver rounds – powerful recoil, deep penetration, favored for hunting and serious defensive use.

45
(.451-.452)
(.45 ACP, .45 Colt, .45 GAP)
Heavy, slow bullets – strong close-range performance, valued for reliability and classic stopping power.

All Other
Calibers
(.380, .32, .25, 5.7×28, and more)
Explore uncommon pistol calibers – unique designs, niche uses, and alternative performance for specific shooting needs.
9 mm (.355-.356)
| .380 ACP | |
| 9 Luger (9×19 mm.) | |
| 9 Makarov (9×18 mm.) | |
| 38 Super Auto |
357 (.355-.358)
| 38 Special | |
| 357 Magnum | |
| 357 Sig |
10 mm (.400-.401)
| 40 S&W | |
| 10 mm Auto |
44 (.429-.430)
| 44-40 Win | |
| 44 Special | |
| 44 Magnum |
45 (.451-.452)
| 45 ACP | |
| 45 Colt | |
| 454 Casual | |
| 460 S&W Mag |
Popular Choices
01
9mm Luger
Balanced recoil, high capacity; standard for personal defense and range training.
02
22 LR (pistol)
Very low recoil and cost – ideal for training, plinking, and small-game shooting.
03
45 ACP
Classic heavy-hitter – controllable in semi-autos and revolvers for close-range defense.
04
40 S&W / 10mm Auto
Modern duty rounds — .40 balances capacity/control; 10mm provides extra power and extended range.
05
38 Special / 357 Magnum
Classic revolver pairing — mild-shooting .38 for carry, powerful .357 for defense and small-game.
06
44 Magnum
High-energy revolver round – used for big-game hunting and demanding defensive needs.
