Placement is important but let's be honest here. Gel tests really don't mean much to me. Not real world. I hate to say it, but there is a real reason why gangbangers choose to carry larger calibers than 9mm. They see real world results. Look at the Civil War...……...large, slow pieces of lead caused more horrific injuries and carnage than modern war weapons. If all you're concerned with is penetration, you should carry a .380. 102 gr. Golden Sabers have 21" of penetration. Maybe you should just be honest with yourself and admit you can't shoot anything larger than 9mm accurately. It's ok, many can't. That's why those that can, do, and if they can't, they go to the gel tests. The FBI can hit those...………………………...