The ongoing argument between the 9mm Luger and .40 Smith & Wesson has been a topic of discussion since the early 1990s when the .40 S&W was introduced.
The focus of this debate typically revolves around determining which of these pistol cartridges is superior for concealed carry. In recent years, the law enforcement community has experienced a shift in their stance on this matter.
The FBI, for instance, has decided to retire their .40 S&W Glock 22 sidearms and revert to the 9mm as the standard issue ammunition for their field agents.
However, does this mean that you should completely disregard the .40 S&W and wholeheartedly embrace the 9mm? Is the 40 S&W even relevant anymore when discussing self-defense handgun calibers?
Before you rush to GunBroker to sell off all your .40 S&W equipment, let's take an objective and unbiased approach to evaluating the 4.0 Smith and Wesson and comparing it against the world's most popular handgun round, the 9mm Luger.
To do so, we'll need a complete package of silhouette targets and several boxes of full metal jacket ammunition because we are about to engage in a thorough examination of the .9mm vs .40 S&W debate.
This discussion concerns personal defense ammunition and general use. The ongoing argument between the 9mm Luger and .40 Smith & Wesson has been a topic of discussion since the early 1990s.
The focus of this debate typically revolves around determining which of these pistol cartridges is superior for concealed carry. In recent years, the law enforcement community has experienced a shift in their stance on this matter.
The FBI, for instance, has decided to retire their .40 S&W Glock 22 sidearms and revert to the 9mm as the standard issue ammunition for their field agents.
However, does this mean that you should completely disregard the .40 S&W and wholeheartedly embrace the 9mm? Is the 40 S&W even relevant anymore when discussing self-defense handgun calibers?
Before you rush to GunBroker to sell off all your .40 S&W equipment, let's take an objective and unbiased approach to evaluating the 4.0 Smith and Wesson and comparing it against the world's most popular handgun round, the 9mm Luger.
To do so, we'll need a complete package of silhouette targets and several boxes of full metal jacket ammunition because we are about to engage in a thorough examination of the .9mm vs .40 S&W debate.
Assorted 9mm Ammo (Left to Right: PMC, Federal, Sellier & Bellot, Winchester)
What is The Point of 40 S&W?
The .40 Smith & Wesson cartridge has an interesting history that dates back to the late 1980s. The story begins with the Federal Bureau of Investigation and their search for a more effective ammunition option.
At the time, the FBI was primarily using 9mm ammo and service handguns. However, in the infamous 1986 FBI Miami-Dade shootout, where two agents were killed and several others were injured, it was observed that the 9mm ammunition used by the agents lacked the desired stopping power.
This incident prompted the FBI to reevaluate their ammunition selection. To address the perceived inadequacy of the 9mm Luger, the FBI initiated a project named the "Miami Wound Ballistics" study.
The study aimed to analyze the effectiveness of different handgun calibers and bullet designs in real-world scenarios. The goal was to identify a cartridge that would offer improved stopping power without compromising recoil control and magazine capacity.
The study concluded that the 10mm cartridge had the desired stopping power, but the recoil and the size of the handguns chambered in this caliber were difficult for many agents to handle effectively.
As a result, the FBI decided to develop a reduced-power version of the 10mm Auto that would be more manageable while still delivering improved performance.
In collaboration with the firearms manufacturer Smith & Wesson, the new .40 caliber cartridge was created in 1990.
It essentially shortened and weakened the 10mm, allowing it to be housed in handguns with a more compact grip and slide. This enabled law enforcement agencies and civilian shooters to enjoy the benefits of increased stopping power.
The .40 S&W quickly gained popularity among law enforcement agencies across the United States, as it provided a balance between the recoil, magazine capacity, and stopping power requirements.
It became known as a versatile cartridge suitable for both self-defense and law enforcement purposes. Although the .40 S&W enjoyed significant success and widespread adoption for many years, its popularity has somewhat waned in recent times.
Factors such as advancements in bullet technology for the 9mm, improved training techniques, and the FBI's decision to return to the 9mm have contributed to a decline in the use of the .40 S&W.
Nevertheless, the .40 S&W remains a viable cartridge option for those who prioritize stopping power and prefer a slightly larger bullet diameter compared to the 9mm. Its history is rooted in the quest for an improved ammunition solution.
Assorted .40 S&W Ammo (Left to Right: PMC, CCI, Sellier & Bellot, Federal)
Does .40 S&W Hit Harder Than 9mm?
"Stopping power" is a term often thrown around by shooters to justify their preference for one caliber over another. However, it is not easily quantifiable and depends on multiple factors.
Stopping power refers to the rate at which an assailant becomes incapacitated, typically through blood loss, oxygen deprivation to the brain, or damage to the central nervous system (CNS).
Achieving incapacitation requires accurate shot placement. While a shot to the foot with a .40 S&W is less lethal than a center mass shot with a 9mm, the .40 S&W delivers more kinetic energy.
It creates a larger permanent wound cavity due to its wider and heavier bullet compared to the 9mm. Some argue that modern jacketed hollow point ammo has brought the 9mm on par with the .40 S&W, but there is still a difference in potential wound size.
Recoil is a significant consideration for shooters, especially the snappy recoil of the .40. The .40 S&W has higher breach pressure than the 9mm and .45 ACP since it is essentially a shortened 10mm.
This higher pressure causes increased muzzle rise during recoil, making it uncomfortable for some shooters and leading to slower follow-up shots. Compared to the 9mm, the 40 S&W experiences about 25% more recoil.
Experienced shooters can manage this recoil, but new shooters or those with smaller hands may find it challenging to handle. In a personal defense situation, recoil directly affects the speed of follow-up shots.
The Differences Between 9mm and .40 S&W
When it comes to comparing two popular handgun calibers like the 9mm and .40 S&W, it's challenging to declare a definitive "winner." Each cartridge has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Supporters of each caliber tend to hold strong opinions, and even empirical data may not sway their preferences. However, we can objectively examine both cartridges to help you make an informed decision for your next concealed carry weapon (CCW).
Magazine Capacity
Both the 9mm and .40 S&W offer good magazine capacity. The .40 S&W allows for firing a heavier bullet while sacrificing only a few rounds compared to the 9mm.
For example, comparing the Glock 17 (17 rounds of 9mm ammo) to the Glock 22 (15 rounds of .40 S&W ammo), there is only a 2-round difference. However, those 2 rounds can make a difference in engaging multiple targets.
The 9mm generally offers higher magazine capacity, allowing you to carry more ammunition without sacrificing belt real estate. This can be advantageous in a self-defense scenario where having more rounds available can increase your chances of success.
Accuracy
Accuracy primarily depends on the shooter rather than the caliber or firearm. In an ideal scenario, shooters would experience similar accuracy with both the 9mm and .40 S&W.
However, due to the higher recoil of the .40 S&W, many shooters find that they are more accurate with the 9mm. Law enforcement data supports the notion that officers exhibit improved accuracy with 9mm handguns.
Home Defense and Concealed Carry
When it comes to home defense, my preference leans towards the .40 S&W. In close-quarters engagements within the home, having a heavier and more powerful round is advantageous, provided you can handle the recoil.
The 180-grain bullet of the .40 S&W offers excellent penetration and kinetic energy transfer, minimizing the risk of overpenetration. For concealed carry purposes, the 9mm seems to be the better choice for several reasons.
Firstly, a compact or sub-compact 9mm handgun will generally have less recoil compared to a similarly sized .40 Smith & Wesson. This translates to improved accuracy, a crucial factor when carrying in public.
The potential for hitting an innocent bystander is higher in a public setting, making precise shot placement crucial. The 9mm is also favored for concealed carry due to its higher capacity, allowing you to carry more rounds without adding extra weight.
Handgun Price and Availability
If you enjoy handgun variety, both the 9mm Luger and .40 Smith & Wesson offer a wide range of options from major manufacturers like Glock, Springfield, and Sig Sauer.
When it comes to pricing new handguns, you can expect to pay similar prices for either caliber. However, the used market differs slightly, particularly with Glock pistols where police trade-in Glock 22 models are often available for under $350.
In contrast, finding a 9mm Glock 17 for a similar price can be challenging as they are in high demand and hold their value better. If you're seeking a cost-effective sidearm, consider a used Glock 22 from a gun store or pawn shop.
What’s Cheaper To Shoot, 9mm or .40 S&W?
Both 9mm ammo and .40 S&W ammunition are readily available. 9mm is mostly found in 115 gr, 124 gr, and 147 gr, while .40 S&W is predominantly available in 165 gr and 180 gr.
In terms of premium jacketed hollow point ammo, the price is around $1 per round for both. For full metal jacket ammo, 9mm is approximately $0.50 per round while .40 S&W is around $0.60.
While the difference isn't substantial, 9mm tends to be slightly cheaper due to its broader usage. Buying bulk ammo is always a wise choice, so be sure to explore our options for bulk 9mm and .40 cal ammo.
Should I buy 9mm or 40 S&W?
Both the 9mm Luger and .40 Smith & Wesson are highly capable options for concealed carry. The .40 S&W offers increased stopping power while maintaining respectable capacity.
However, the .40 S&W is a high-pressure round with snappy recoil that can be difficult to control. On the other hand, the 9mm has seen significant advancements in hollow point technology, making its terminal performance comparable to .40 S&W.
The 9mm provides higher magazine capacity and a manageable recoil impulse. The transition of law enforcement back to 9mm highlights these benefits, prioritizing accuracy and faster split times over bullet size.
Although its popularity has waned, the .40 S&W remains a potent self-defense round. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your personal preferences and shooting ability.
We recommend visiting a local gun range to rent handguns in both calibers. Shoot a few boxes of FMJ ammo through each to determine which one you handle better.
Remember, shot placement is paramount in any personal defense situation. Carry the caliber that you can shoot most effectively to ensure you never feel underpowered with either of these handgun calibers.
Need bulk ammo? At True Shot Gun Club, we have a wide variety of handgun ammo and rifle ammo available to purchase.
