[Tarpaulin]

That was my take as well, a smaller caliber. But then, a .32 in the eye would still likely penetrate the thin bone behind the eye and prove fatal.

I have a .32 ACP, North American Arms. Good little "backup" weapon. From only a few feet away, I could inflict such a wound with it. From a much greater distance I would choose to aim at center body mass.

But then again, my "primary" is a Ruger .45 ACP. With that thing, pretty much anywhere central and above the nipples means lights out.

[RatSlayer]

RE "But then, a .32 in the eye would still likely penetrate the thin bone behind the eye and prove fatal. "


If you're really forced to defend yourself with a small caliber handgun, I'd suggest trying for a "punch shot".

IOW, actually punch the perp with the muzzle and pull the trigger. The expanding gases going into the bullet hole will actually cause more injury than the bullet in these small caliber weapons.

[Jasper]

"But then again, my "primary" is a Ruger .45 ACP. With that thing, pretty much anywhere central and above the nipples means lights out.

Is your Ruger .45 the P-90 series, or the new P-345?

I'm thinking of picking up another .45, and am looking at the P-345. I haven't had any experience with Ruger semi-auto pistols. How do you like yours?

/jasper

[El Gato]

With that thing, pretty much anywhere central and above the nipples means lights out

You'd be surprised. Some folks get hit with a .22 in the buttocks and they go down and out. Others, especially those on drugs or booze, even a .45 to the center of mass doesn't take them out...right away that is. The rule of course is to keep shooting until the threat is removed.