Church Security Calibers

[hostler]

Hi:
I am a new member of a church security unit.
Several members are retired LEO.
The main purpose is security in the main sanctuary. The building is one story.
The sanctuary is approx. 75 feet from main door to pulpit and approx. 75 feet wide.
The sanctuary is normally full on Sunday mornings.

To my mind, over penetration is a main concern in the event that an active shooter has to be dealt with.

A large slow moving handgun bullet is what I am thinking ?

Consideration :
1. .38 spl hollow base wad cutter bullet reversed with hollow base outward
2. .38 spl fragmentation round
3. .44 spl HP
4. .45 acp 185 gr HP

Opinions ??

Thanks
Jimmy

First off, I applaud your church for being pro-active and not waiting for something bad to happen, good for them, and good for you for taking this responsibility on.
B). I think handgun choice and how you handle that gun is much more important than caliber choice. It looks like you are leaning toward a revolver, that's fine but six rounds isn't a lot when up against multiple threats or heavily armed threats wearing body armor. There's no such thing as one-shot-stopping-power from any handgun, the key is placement and follow-up shots. Of the choices above I would go with a good defensive 38+P, otherwise get yourself a good high capacity 9mm. 38 (even +P) are not known for over-penetration, 9mm can over-penetrate if you don't choose a good HP.

 

[Jupiter01]

Hey, don't they fend off attacks on the Vatican with those Halberds they march around with?

Not entirely...UNDER those funny-looking uniforms, are carried Sig-Sauer or similar Swiss firearms. But, as a close in weapon, the Halberd ranks right up there with the African Assegai!

 

[ArchAngelCD]

I didn't read all 5 pages so sorry if I'm repeating.

I would not use a HBWC turned upside down. It's been proven there is no advantage bad some disadvantages. The WC used in the correct orientation is not a bad idea though.

Please no frag bullets. A leather jacket will defeat them.

If you are going with the 45 ACP I would use a 230gr HP bullet, not a 185gr bullet. Big and slow has worked for over 100 years.

I pray you will never find out which is best.