.40 S&W vs. 9mm

Attribute	.40 S&W	9mm
Caliber	.40	9mm
Bullet diameter	.40 inches (10.16 mm)	9mm (9.01 mm)
Case length	.85 inches (21.59 mm)	.754 inches (19.15 mm)
Overall length	1.135 inches (28.83 mm)	1.169 inches (29.69 mm)
Energy	Medium	Low to medium
Recoil	Strong	Moderate

Introduction

When it comes to choosing a handgun caliber, two of the most popular options are the .40 S&W and the 9mm. Both calibers have their own set of attributes that make them appealing to different shooters. In this article, we will compare the attributes of the .40 S&W and 9mm to help you make an informed decision on which caliber is right for you.

Size and Recoil

One of the main differences between the .40 S&W and 9mm is the size of the cartridge. The .40 S&W is a larger and more powerful round compared to the 9mm. This means that the .40 S&W typically has more recoil than the 9mm, which can make it more difficult to shoot accurately for some shooters. On the other hand, the 9mm has less recoil and is generally easier to control, making it a popular choice for shooters of all experience levels.

Stopping Power

When it comes to stopping power, the .40 S&W is often considered to be more effective than the 9mm. The larger size and higher velocity of the .40 S&W round can cause more damage upon impact, making it more likely to incapacitate an attacker. However, the 9mm is still a capable round and has been proven to be effective in self-defense situations. Ultimately, the choice between the .40 S&W and 9mm will depend on your personal preferences and shooting abilities.

Ammunition Availability

Another factor to consider when choosing between the .40 S&W and 9mm is ammunition availability. The 9mm is one of the most popular handgun calibers in the world, which means that it is widely available and relatively inexpensive. On the other hand, the .40 S&W is not as popular as the 9mm, which can make it more difficult to find ammunition for. If you plan on shooting frequently or stockpiling ammunition, the availability of the 9mm may be a deciding factor for you.

Capacity and Magazine Size

When it comes to capacity and magazine size, the 9mm has a slight advantage over the .40 S&W. Due to its smaller size, the 9mm cartridge allows for higher capacity magazines compared to the .40 S&W. This means that you can typically fit more rounds in a 9mm magazine, giving you more firepower in a self-defense situation. However, the .40 S&W still offers a respectable magazine capacity and should not be overlooked for this reason.

Cost

Cost is another important factor to consider when choosing between the .40 S&W and 9mm. In general, the 9mm is more affordable to shoot compared to the .40 S&W. The lower cost of 9mm ammunition can make it a more attractive option for shooters who are on a budget or who plan on shooting frequently. However, the cost of ammunition should not be the only factor you consider when choosing a handgun caliber, as other attributes such as stopping power and recoil should also be taken into account.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both the .40 S&W and 9mm are capable handgun calibers that have their own set of attributes. The .40 S&W offers more stopping power and is a larger round, while the 9mm has less recoil and is more affordable to shoot. Ultimately, the choice between the .40 S&W and 9mm will depend on your personal preferences, shooting abilities, and intended use for the firearm. We hope that this comparison has helped you make an informed decision on which caliber is right for you.