Distances affect on bullet performance

[PA PATRIOT]

We see a lot of Ballistic handgun testing were the test shot distance is very close and then the results are published recommending or dismissing a particular load for carry. As we all know gun fights take place at all distances for Law Enforcement so my question is this, does ammunition manufacturers do ballistic distance testing to see were their bullets start to fail to meet accepted standards. The reasoning behind this question is that I see many situations were distance becomes a factor during certain L/E operations and it would be good to know if one has a choice between three different calibers 9mm, .40S&W and .45acp for duty use which would be the best all around choice from contact to stand-off distances based on the loadings distance ballistic testing results. Now I know most will say grab a rifle and be done with it but that is not an option in my department and the shooting most times is over before SWAT is able to assemble and arrive at location.

My departments duty loads are standard pressure Federal HST in 9mm 147gr, .40S&W 165gr and .45acp 230gr

Thanks
Phila PD

[RWK]

Good question. I've asked it before and never received anything close to a satisfactory answer. I don't know that anyone does any actual testing like that.