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How does the .40 S&W compare to the 9mm?

01/2025
Jan 09, 2025
🕒 3 mins

Exploring the .40 Smith & Wesson: Big Mike’s Guns and Ammo Dive Into Ballistics

At Big Mike’s Guns and Ammo in Fallon, NV, we take firearm knowledge seriously. Today, we’re delving into the ballistic performance of the .40 Smith & Wesson (often called .40 S&W) and exploring its advantages compared to the 9mm. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or new to firearms, our insights will help you make an informed decision.

The Origin of the .40 Smith & Wesson

The .40 S&W was born from the FBI’s desire for a more potent round after the 9mm was found lacking in stopping power. The 10mm emerged as a solution but was deemed too powerful for most agents. Thus, the .40 S&W was developed as a middle ground, offering impressive performance with less recoil than the 10mm.

Comparing .40 S&W to 9mm

Ballistic Differences:

  • The .40 S&W fires a 180-grain projectile compared to the 9mm’s 124-grain round.
  • While the .40 delivers more stopping power, it has a slightly snappier recoil, making follow-up shots more challenging.

Capacity and Control:

  • Most .40 S&W firearms hold 2-3 fewer rounds than their 9mm counterparts.
  • The 9mm offers faster follow-up shots due to its lighter recoil, an essential factor for many shooters.

Law Enforcement and Civilian Use

The .40 S&W was widely adopted by law enforcement for its enhanced stopping power. However, many agencies have recently transitioned back to 9mm due to advancements in bullet technology, which now allow 9mm rounds to achieve near-equivalent performance.

Real-World Testing at Big Mike’s Guns and Ammo

At Big Mike’s, we conducted side-by-side tests of .40 S&W and 9mm rounds using ballistics gel and high-speed cameras. Here’s what we found:

  • Penetration and Expansion: The .40 S&W consistently showed deeper penetration and more extensive wound cavities than 9mm.
  • Recoil Impact: While the .40 offers superior stopping power, its recoil requires more control and practice.

Defensive Ammunition Performance

We tested popular defensive rounds like Federal HST, Speer Gold Dot, and G9 External Hollow Points:

  • Federal HST: Excellent expansion and over 12 inches of penetration in gel.
  • Speer Gold Dot: Proven performance with reliable expansion.
  • G9 External Hollow Point: Outstanding velocity and clean wound channels.

Each round performed well, but the .40 S&W rounds consistently created larger temporary and permanent cavities.

Is .40 S&W Right for You?

Choosing between .40 S&W and 9mm depends on your priorities:

  • If you value stopping power and penetration, the .40 S&W is a solid choice.
  • If capacity and controllability are more important, consider the 9mm.

At Big Mike’s Guns and Ammo, our expert team can help you test both calibers in our range. Plus, we’re proud to offer AR-building classes, training sessions, and a wide selection of firearms and accessories for all budgets.

Visit Big Mike’s Guns and Ammo

Located in Fallon, NV, within easy driving distance of Carson City, Sparks, and Reno, Big Mike’s Guns and Ammo is your go-to destination for firearms, accessories, and expert advice. As a Disabled Veteran-owned business, we prioritize quality, service, and supporting our community.

Explore our extensive inventory, take advantage of our reward points program, and don’t forget—we’ll cover up to $25 for background checks. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting, we’re here to help you find the best deals and build your perfect firearm setup.

Big Mike’s Guns and Ammo: Where Firearms Expertise Meets Exceptional Service.

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Michael Christopherson

I'm a regular person who wants to do something positive for others. I've owned a construction company, a WW2 Jeep parts business, a Bullet manufacturing business, and a few other small private businesses. My Gun business was a hobby. I intended to make play money and possibly have a small shop when I retired in 2031. I wanted my shop to be the best experience people could have; I wanted the store to be of value to many people. I want to provide good jobs for people in my town. The call to be the best is attainable because I keep trying to improve on what I have already built. My parents and my 10 years with the Navy Seabees instilled this drive in me. I have also been influenced by many other successful people; I thank my wife, Rachael, and my kids; they are the reason I try so much, as I want to leave them with something if they want it. I thank God as he blesses me with high-quality people in my life.

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