Calculating Recoil for Handguns - How to do that?

[Land_Owner]

Is handgun recoil calculated similar to a long gun?

[helotaxi]

The same formula applies regardless of type of gun, but the formula doesn't give you the whole story.

The "quality" of the recoil isn't accounted for, only the "quantity."  For example, you may have a .40 S&W load and a .45 Auto load that produce the same quantity of recoil in their respective guns but the .45 might be much more pleasant to shoot because of the more progressive nature of the recoil from the relatively low pressure .45.

[wmurrell]

"Quality" of recoil, that's what you call it !
Take a Marlin 1895G in 45-70 with factory rounds and a T/C contender with a 14"BBL in 45-70
 with same ammo.
The T/C will definately give you better "quality"
Of course it's 3+ lbs lighter, and all the force is directed into one hand
But as stated the formula for free recoil is the same

[mechanic]

I employ the following method, which consists of several questions:

1.)  Did I drop the gun?
2.)  If yes, did it hit me or anyone else on the way back?
3.) Does my hand still function?
4.) Am I bleeding?
5.) Are my retinas detached?

If the answer is no to all these questions except # 3, my brother did not load the ammo, and the recoil is ok.

Ben

[Land_Owner]

...and I come here voluntarily for this. 

Good one mechanic.  That was really quite good and I have read it multiple times with the same effect - still laughing.