Richard;
If I could hit the eye of bat I wouldn't worry about it either
Just kidding but you make an excellent point. The only real reasons I will choose a load is not based on whether they are +P or +P+ or standard, it is merely on how the bullet is constructed and will it penetrate enough to suit me and after that, is it accurate?
It is mere coincidence that I find that the well balanced load in 9mm is a +P+. My second choice, the Triton 135 +P is unfortunately discontinued but I still have a good bit.
Actually, the 147 Winchester Ranger is enjoying such a reputation with the LAPD that I might consider it.
FWIW, when Federal first came out with the Hydra-Shok in 9mm they sent us some 124 regular pressure and some 124 +P+ They were clearly different bullets from their appearance. The regular load, IIRC, ran right at 1200 fps and the +P+ ran right at 1300 fps.
We shot a few vermin with them and found, to our amazement, that they both opened to exactly the same diameter (about .64") and penetrated the same depth (about 9" - but they were stopped by skin so they might have went deeper in a thicker animal).
Each load has to be taken on its own merits. And each person has to "name his own poison".
Yours is an exceedinly good point, go with what you shoot best, within reason.
Press on,
Jim