Handgun Wounding Factors: An Effectiveness Guide for Law Enforcement

As the primary weapon of law enforcement, the handgun is purposed with applying deadly force to protect the life of the officer and to prevent or minimize serious physical harm to the public from a threat. When an officer involved shooting occurs, it’s done so with the specific intent of immediately incapacitating the individual causing a threat. Immediate incapacitation is the sole goal of any law enforcement shooting and informs their decision making regarding weapons, calibers, ammunition, and training.

Because a lot is at stake when an officer is required to take action with their handgun, selecting effective ammunition is critical. This guide discusses existing research on caliber wounding factors and effectiveness. Read Handgun Wounding Factors: An Effectiveness Guide for Law Enforcement at Ammo.com.