Pistol brand choice

Question
Hi Dave: I've been kicking around the idea of getting a semi-auto pistol. Not interested in a 'hand held cannon' so 9mm is my choice. Come across the term 9mm Parabellum. What does this mean ? Different caliber than a regular 9mm ? Also what do you think of CZ firearms ? I'm considering a CZ 75 B semi-auto pistol. Good comments in a recent article on sub $600.00 pistols.   Thankyou.......Glenn

Answer
I prefer a 1911 in .45 ACP, but 9mm is very popular.

When normally speaking, "9mm" means the 9mm parabellum cartridge. It is the standard 9mm cartridge. ("Parabellum" means "for war")

The 9mm parabellum is also called 9mm, or 9mm Luger.

There is another 9mm cartridge that should be called 9mm Kurz or .380 ACP. It is lower powered than the 9mm parabellum, and is popular in smaller guns, especially the Walther PPK. I use a Walther PPK in .380 ACP when my 1911 is too large for my clothing. The .380 ACP, in addition to being called the 9mm Kurz, is also called 380 automatic, 9mm Browning short, or 9mm Corto. I don't know why they have so many names for the same cartridge.

CZ firemarms are fine. I have a target pistol and a hunting rifle from CZ.

Hope this helps!

Dave