It should not be so confusing but if you cut through the nonsense and egos it clears up. Listen to the sources closest to the actual shootings or investigation but they are usually drowned out by the din from the KoolAid Klan. I'll give you some direction.
1. FMJ or any non-expanding bullet = BAD NEWS.

2. The more tissue destruction the better. An FMJ penetrating 18" does not count.

3. Don't discount good ammo (with a good track record) because it's not currently fashionable. Good examples are Silvertip, Federal Nyclad, Federal 9BPLE, HydraShok.

4. Handguns need every fps of velocity they can get. Less velocity the shakier the odds of expansion. This generally means lighter bullets over heavier ones.

5. Don't become fascinated with heavy bullets that'll plow through windshields and sheet metal. Unless you are making multiple vehicle stops a day contacting unknown persons or being dispatched by 911 to calls with a high probability of a barricaded subject, you don't really need a bullet with the requirements of law enforcement. Fine if you have them but not an ironclad requirement.

6. Use multiple sources of information. No one source is the end-all or the "Last Word" in exterior ballistics. Don't listen to the hate and vile from people who are defending their favorite guru. Cops have access to records of actual shootings because of professional courtesy (verified, of course). This drives some people insane with jealousy that they don't have that privilege.

7. Also be aware that exalted gurus whose opinions are vehemently defended on the internet, do change their positions on topics as time goes on. Where does that leave the true believers if the guru is a moving target???? Case in point: I've got Fackler recorded on tape admitting he used to have a firm stand on a topic but did a 180 change years later.


A firearms examiner from a very large West Coast agency told me that he and other examiners were noticing failure to expands with Golden Sabre 147gr. This examiner carried 124 gr Golden Sabre in his 9mm. What's the diff....velocity!

Personally I carry Corbon DPX in 9mm, 380 and 40 (personal weapon) because I've been impressed with its performance.