Surviving a Shot to the Temple with a .45 ACP: Is It Possible?

The question of whether one can survive a shot to the temple with a .45 ACP full metal jacket (FMJ) is a critical and grim one. Unfortunately, the answer is not reassuring—barely any chance of survival exists in such a scenario. However, there are circumstances under which survival might be marginally possible, though the outcomes would be anything but ideal.

The Dire Consequences of a Temple Shot

The temple area is one of the most vulnerable parts of the head. A .45 ACP, as a powerful handgun round, delivers immense kinetic energy, making it highly unlikely for this ammunition to be deflected upon impact. If a .45 ACP FMJ enters one temple and exits the other, the chances of survival are vanishingly small. Any damage to this region can go beyond the point of recovery.

Even if individuals survive a temple shot, their quality of life is likely to be severely impacted. Critical brain areas responsible for vital functions are often damaged. These can include impairments in cognitive functioning, loss of motor skills, and even the permanent loss of an eye. In essence, survival in such a scenario is not only extremely rare but also comes with high risks of lifelong disability.

Angled Trajectories and Potential Survival

While a direct headshot with a .45 ACP FMJ from the temple likely guarantees death, there are scenarios where survival is marginally possible. This depends on the angle of impact and the trajectory of the bullet. If the bullet enters the temple and exits through the forehead in an angled manner, the damage might be less critical. In this situation, the bullet destroys less vital areas, and if essential blood vessels are not damaged, there is a greater chance of survival, especially with immediate medical attention.

However, even with an angled exit, survival is not guaranteed. The area of damage can still be extensive, leading to severe cognitive impairments and other disabilities. Medical professionals would have a challenging task in treating such injuries.

Comparison with Other Calibers

Contrary to a .45 ACP, other calibers like 9mm might provide a better chance of survival, given the potential for less damage. For instance, if a 9mm hollow-point (HP) bullet enters from one temple and exits through the forehead, the damage might be more controlled, leading to a higher survival rate. The larger and heavier the round, the more significant the damage and the higher the likelihood of being deadly, even if survival is possible.

From a medical perspective, the temporary wound channel created by a .45 ACP FMJ is significantly larger compared to a 9mm HP. The blast effect and the force delivered can be devastating, often leading to immediate death. In contrast, a 9mm HP might cause significant damage but is less likely to be entirely lethal.

Factors Influencing Survival

Despite the dire prognosis, there is always a small margin of hope. Some individuals have defied the odds and survived severe brain injuries. Circumstances such as the location of the injury, medical intervention, and sheer luck may play a role. However, these are rare cases.

The most certain way to ensure instant and complete incapacitation is a shot to the base of the skull. This area of impact is more likely to cause an instant 1-shot kill due to the critical functions regulated by this region of the brain.

In conclusion, while a .45 ACP FMJ shot to the temple is overwhelmingly likely to be fatal, there is a small chance of survival if the angle and location are optimal. Nevertheless, the potential for severe disability and long-term cognitive impairment makes such a scenario extremely hazardous.