.40 S&W vs. 10mm Auto

Attribute	.40 S&W	10mm Auto
Parent case	10mm Auto	None
Bullet diameter	.400 in (10.16 mm)	.400 in (10.16 mm)
Case length	.850 in (21.59 mm)	.992 in (25.20 mm)
Overall length	1.135 in (28.83 mm)	1.260 in (32.00 mm)
Maximum pressure	35,000 psi (240 MPa)	37,500 psi (260 MPa)
Velocity	950-1,400 ft/s (290-430 m/s)	1,100-1,400 ft/s (340-430 m/s)
Energy	400-600 ft·lbf (540-810 J)	500-800 ft·lbf (680-1,080 J)

History

The .40 S&W cartridge was developed in the late 1980s as a compromise between the 9mm and .45 ACP rounds. It was created to provide a balance between magazine capacity and stopping power. On the other hand, the 10mm Auto was introduced in the early 1980s by Jeff Cooper and Norma. It was originally designed for the FBI, but was later adopted by some law enforcement agencies and civilian shooters.

Ballistics

When comparing the ballistics of the .40 S&W and 10mm Auto, it is important to note that the 10mm Auto generally has higher muzzle energy and velocity. This results in better terminal performance and deeper penetration. However, the .40 S&W is known for its manageable recoil and faster follow-up shots. This makes it a popular choice for shooters who prioritize accuracy and control.

Stopping Power

Both the .40 S&W and 10mm Auto are considered to have good stopping power. The 10mm Auto, with its higher muzzle energy, is often preferred for hunting and self-defense situations where maximum stopping power is desired. On the other hand, the .40 S&W is known for its ability to deliver consistent and reliable performance in a variety of scenarios.

Magazine Capacity

One of the main differences between the .40 S&W and 10mm Auto is magazine capacity. Due to its larger size, the 10mm Auto typically has a lower magazine capacity compared to the .40 S&W. This can be a factor to consider for shooters who prioritize having more rounds available before needing to reload.

Ammunition Availability

When it comes to ammunition availability, the .40 S&W is more commonly found in stores and online retailers compared to the 10mm Auto. This can be an important factor for shooters who want easy access to ammunition for practice and training. However, the 10mm Auto has gained popularity in recent years, leading to an increase in available ammunition options.

Recoil

Recoil is another important factor to consider when comparing the .40 S&W and 10mm Auto. The 10mm Auto is known for its stout recoil, which can be challenging for some shooters to manage. On the other hand, the .40 S&W has a more moderate recoil that is generally easier to control. This can make it a more comfortable option for shooters who are sensitive to recoil.

Accuracy

When it comes to accuracy, both the .40 S&W and 10mm Auto are capable of delivering precise shots. However, the .40 S&W is often favored for its lighter recoil, which can lead to improved accuracy for some shooters. The 10mm Auto, with its higher muzzle energy, may require more practice to master, but can also deliver excellent accuracy in the hands of a skilled shooter.

Price

Price is another factor to consider when choosing between the .40 S&W and 10mm Auto. Generally, the .40 S&W is more affordable than the 10mm Auto, both in terms of ammunition and firearms. This can make it a more budget-friendly option for shooters who want to save money on their shooting hobby. However, the 10mm Auto offers superior performance in certain situations, which may justify the higher cost for some shooters.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both the .40 S&W and 10mm Auto have their own unique attributes that make them suitable for different shooting applications. The .40 S&W is known for its manageable recoil, faster follow-up shots, and widespread availability. On the other hand, the 10mm Auto offers higher muzzle energy, better terminal performance, and superior stopping power. Ultimately, the choice between these two cartridges will depend on the shooter's preferences, intended use, and budget.