A definitive study in caliber superiority.
After much consideration, observation and experimentation it has finally been determined that the .40 S&W reigns supreme, excelling over its major contenders: the 9mm Luger and .45 ACP, in all applications. Extended study of empirical evidence indicates that the mightiness of the round is quite evident based solely on....packaging!
The following exhibits should tell the tale:
Figure 1. 9mm
Note the haphazard, seemingly random packing of the little bullets in their diminuntive box. Just dumped in with no thought to the effects of constant contact and brass rubbing from one shell onto the bullet of the next. Undoubteldy this friction must lead to reduced performance.
Figure 2. .45 ACP
The venerable old .45's do not quite suffer the indignity of their smaller, European counterparts, in that they are alinged quite nicely in the container, but are still packed loosely. Apparently this is of no concern, however one must expect the bullets to not meet expectations.
Figure 3. .40 S&W
Now behold the .40 rounds delicately cradled in a styrofoam tray, each round in it's own little silo. Thus segregated, maximum performance and awesomeness is guaranteed as the effects of undue jostling are negated by the protective powers of the tray. They round is so powerful this packaging is required by law to prevent small earth-shattering kabooms during transport.
Clearly the .40 is the best!