Roger on that sir,
This is how we differentiate between a low and a high velocity missile (Mil term)
Low velocity if it is slower than the speed of sound in air (1100fps), typically found in handguns and sub-machine guns, bullets tend to be large in diameter and heavy ( 115-245 GRAINS) with wound characteristics such as larger permanent cavity, increased penetration into tissue due to weight, but fairly stable in tissue (wounds are more predictable)
High velocity if its 1100fps or higher,bullets vary greatly in weight (55-184 grains) thus creating a large temporary cavity.
Actually, projectile
velocity is the be-all and end-all of determining high from low power. Projectile
size, while undoubtedly important, just doesn't much factor into the matter. Obviously, a 230-grain bullet going at 3000 fps will be doing mucho more damage than a 55 grain bullet going at the same speed. But a 230 grain bullet going at 800 fps ( .45 ACP ) just can't do the same damage a 55 grain bullet going at >3000 fps can.
Which do you prefer sir, high or low velocity?
Ahhh hehehe I am not sure of your question, but I will try to answer it both ways.
If I were to be the one to get shot, obviously i'd like to get hit by a low-powered round. Predictable damage, few surprises, less chance of surrounding-tissue destruction, better, faster chance of recovering.
But if I were to be the one INFLICTING the gunshot intentionally, you can bet i wish for the fight-stopping ability of the high-power rounds.
If I were a doctor who HAD to treat gunshot victims, I would wish for low-power injuries: Easy to manage; fast healing, generally positive outcomes. As you can surmise from the pics that CB has posted, damage here is very severe, and we expect this patient to need care for a long- long time.
I hope these answer your questions, Mr. Air.
