FEATURES Homeland Security Special Section Stopping Power

Homeland Security agents use three types of handguns, each one loved by those who carry it and criticized by those who don't.

Duty PistolWho uses itSpeed of shot
(Feet per second from muzzle)
Human Tissue
Penetration from 15 feet* (inches)
9 mmVeteran Customs agents (ICE), Customs inspectors (CBP), U.S. Coast Guard1113.6712.83
.40-caliber S&WVeteran INS agents (ICE), Customs inspectors (CBP), U.S. Border Patrol1163.29.886
.357-caliber SigFederal air marshals (ICE), U.S. Secret Service, Federal Protective Service (ICE)129814.7

*Penetration reflects shot fired into 10% Gelatin Solution

Source: Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement

COMMENTS

  • This article is very INCOMPLETE... what loads/bullet weights are you comparing in these 3 calibers? Was the 10% gelatin calibrated properly? What weapons were used in the testing for the 3 calibers? What were the specs (barrel length, etc.) on the weapons?