30 Super Carry vs 9mm

When it comes to selecting the ideal handgun caliber, the debate between the 30 Super Carry and 9mm has sparked considerable interest among firearm enthusiasts. Each cartridge boasts its unique strengths, catering to different shooting needs and preferences. In this blog post, we’ll conduct a comprehensive comparison of the 30 Super Carry and 9mm, exploring their ballistics, stopping power, recoil, and practical applications, to help you make an informed decision for your shooting requirements.

1. Ballistics and Stopping Power:

The 30 Super Carry is a newer cartridge, designed to provide enhanced ballistics compared to the 9mm. With a slightly smaller bullet diameter of .313 inches (7.55 mm), compared to a typical 9mm around of 0.355 inches (9.01mm), the 30 Super Carry offers a faster projectile than the 9mm, and delivers more energy at close range than 9mm potentially increasing stopping power. Although you should note, beyond 25 yards, the 9mm round will deliver more energy.

2. Recoil and Shootability:

The 9mm typically generates less recoil than the 30 Super Carry, thanks to its smaller case capacity and lighter bullets. This makes the 9mm more manageable for shooters of all experience levels, allowing for quicker follow-up shots and better control during rapid-fire scenarios. On the other hand, the 30 Super Carry’s additional recoil may require more practice to maintain accuracy and proficiency.

3. Firearm Compatibility:

The 9mm enjoys widespread popularity, and its compatibility extends to a vast array of firearms, including semi-automatic pistols and carbines. This broad availability of firearms chambered in 9mm allows for more choices when selecting a firearm to match the caliber. While the 30 Super Carry has been gaining traction, its firearm compatibility may not be as extensive as the 9mm.

4. Ammunition Availability and Cost:

As a more established cartridge, the 9mm benefits from widespread availability and a diverse selection of ammunition types. This abundance leads to competitive pricing, making 9mm ammunition more affordable compared to the relatively newer 30 Super Carry. Shooters on a budget or those who prefer bulk purchases may find the 9mm to be a cost-effective choice.

5. Practical Applications:

Both the 30 Super Carry and 9mm are versatile calibers suitable for self-defense, concealed carry, target shooting, and even competition shooting. Shooters may prefer the 30 Super Carry for its potential increase in stopping power, especially when using the right ammunition and bullet design. However, the 9mm’s overall popularity, ease of use, and affordability make it a top choice for a wide range of applications.

Is 30 Super Carry Better than 9mm?

Short answer? No.

While 30 Super Carry has a little more power behind it, the downside is you will have to deal with more recoil. Furthermore, 30 Super Carry is only manufactured by the Vista family of brands; being Blazer, Remington, CCI, Federal, Federal American Eagle, Speer and Hornady (not owned by Vista) so its harder to find than 9mm and is more expensive.

In the end, 30 super carry feels like a solution in search of a problem and only adds to an already crowded ammunition field. My largest issue is that 30 Super Carry doesn’t solve any issue. Sure, you can get a higher capacity magazine, but lets be honest, if you can’t hit your target with 15 rounds, what is a 17 round magazine going to do? Plus, the ammo is significantly more expensive and not as widely available as 9mm ammo.

Conclusion:

The choice between the 30 Super Carry and 9mm depends on your specific shooting needs, preferences, and firearm compatibility. The 30 Super Carry offers enhanced ballistics and potential stopping power, making it an appealing choice for self-defense enthusiasts seeking an edge in performance. However, the 9mm remains a time-tested, widely available, and budget-friendly option, ideal for shooters of all skill levels and applications.

Ultimately, consider factors such as recoil management, ammunition availability, firearm compatibility, and your intended use when making the decision. Regardless of which caliber you choose, regular practice, proper firearm maintenance, and responsible shooting practices are essential for ensuring optimal performance and safety in any shooting scenario.