Could the caliber make a difference on accuracy?

tony1B · #1 09-17-2010, 12:04 PM

I tested a sigma .40 and and M&P 9mm. I was all over the place with the Sigma. Right on with the M&P. Could the caliber make a difference in the accuracy? Unfortunately the range did not have a .40 M&P for me to test.

handgunner356 · #2 09-17-2010, 01:03 PM

Caliber doesn't really effect handgun accuracy. Between the Sigma and M&P I would say more likely the triggers would have the greater effect. Sight radius, trigger pull and recoil will all play a part on handgun accuracy.

Casehardn · #3 09-17-2010, 01:36 PM

Yes, Some calibers are inherently more accurate than others, due to bullet diameter/bore diameter ratio.
But in your specific case it probably is due to manufacturing differences in the pistols as handgunner356 has mentioned.

bitstream · #4 09-17-2010, 01:45 PM

Your post in the Sigma area said you also shot an FN .40 and had problems with it too. FN makes a quality firearm. If both the Sigma and the FN caused you problems, then I'd say it's the .40 round made you flinch. You likely didn't even notice it.

Jhp147 · #5 09-22-2010, 06:56 AM

Factory 9mm guns I have checked run about 6.5 pounds. The only time I ever handled a Sigma, I thought it was about a 10 pound or more trigger. I also feel like the .40 is very efficient at generating flinch in a less experienced shooter.

OKFC05 · #6 09-22-2010, 01:46 PM

Quote:

Could the caliber make a difference in the accuracy?

Yes, of the shooter.
"All over the place" is classic shooter error.
Inherent accuracy at 25yds should be within 4" or less with either gun.

SMMAssociates · #7 09-25-2010, 04:17 AM

tony:

IMHO, the only real problem is in the time it's going to take to get back on target for a second shot, or your ability to do so due to recoil issues. A real heavy 9mm handgun, for example, is going to let you back on much faster than a lightweight .45....

But that's all training....

There are minor differences (other than those induced by the trigger, which is a whole 'nother thread) but if you can put six rounds in a six inch circle at 30', you're fine for a self defense gun. Paper punchers prefer better, of course, but all that "match barrel" stuff on pocket blasters is nonsense.

(Rather like "tactical underwear"....)

Just IMHO, of course....

My M&P40C is a lot harder to get back on target than my Full Size .40, but since my EDC is a small 1911, I've already trained up for it. The extra sight radius is handy, but not essential at those distances.

Regards,