9mm vs. the 40 S&W

Опубликовано: 04 Июнь 2025
на канале: Guns, Gear & On Target Training, LLC

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The debate about caliber seems to be unending. In this video we discuss the 9mm and .40 S&W handguns and touch on topics like improvements in bullet design, subjective felt recoil and the economic facts of 9mm and .40 S&W. Please support our mission: https://gofund.me/6fb31c2e.

9mm Parabellum:
The 9mm Parabellum, also known as 9x19mm, has undergone significant improvements in bullet design over the past few decades. Advances in bullet technology, such as the development of bonded and expanding bullets, have enhanced its performance in terms of penetration and expansion. Modern 9mm ammunition is capable of achieving deep penetration while maintaining a consistent wound channel, which is crucial for stopping threats effectively. Hollow point bullets, in particular, have seen substantial enhancements, making 9mm a reliable choice for self-defense and law enforcement.

.40 S&W:
The .40 S&W (Smith & Wesson) was developed to bridge the gap between the 9mm and the .45 ACP, offering more stopping power than the 9mm while maintaining higher capacity than the .45 ACP. Bullet design improvements have similarly benefitted the .40 S&W. The introduction of bonded bullets and advancements in hollow point technology have made the .40 S&W a potent choice, providing excellent stopping power with reliable penetration and expansion.

Subjective Felt Recoil
9mm Parabellum:
The 9mm is often praised for its manageable recoil. Due to its lower recoil impulse, shooters can achieve faster follow-up shots and maintain better control over the firearm. This characteristic makes the 9mm a popular choice for new shooters and those who prioritize accuracy and speed. The reduced recoil also results in less shooter fatigue during extended range sessions, contributing to its widespread popularity among competitive shooters and law enforcement personnel.

.40 S&W:
The .40 S&W, while offering more stopping power than the 9mm, also produces more felt recoil. The sharper recoil can make rapid follow-up shots more challenging and may require more practice to handle effectively. Some shooters find the recoil of the .40 S&W to be snappy and less comfortable over long shooting sessions. However, for those who can manage the recoil, the .40 S&W provides a good balance of power and capacity, making it a favored choice for certain law enforcement agencies and self-defense enthusiasts.

Economic Considerations
9mm Parabellum:
Economically, the 9mm has a significant advantage. Due to its widespread use and popularity, 9mm ammunition is generally more affordable and readily available than .40 S&W. The cost-effectiveness of 9mm ammo allows shooters to practice more frequently without breaking the bank. Additionally, the higher magazine capacity of 9mm handguns provides more rounds per dollar spent, further enhancing its appeal from an economic standpoint.

.40 S&W:
While .40 S&W ammunition tends to be more expensive than 9mm, it is still relatively affordable compared to larger calibers like .45 ACP. The higher cost is partly due to the larger bullets and lower overall demand compared to 9mm. For those who prefer the characteristics of the .40 S&W, the increased cost may be justified by the enhanced stopping power and perceived effectiveness. However, from a purely economic perspective, the 9mm offers a more budget-friendly option for both practice and self-defense.

Conclusion
Both the 9mm and .40 S&W handguns have their own strengths and appeal to different segments of the shooting community. The 9mm, with its lower recoil, advancements in bullet technology, and cost-effectiveness, is a versatile and popular choice for a wide range of applications. It is particularly favored by new shooters, competitive shooters, and those who prioritize magazine capacity and affordability.

The .40 S&W, on the other hand, offers more stopping power and has benefited from similar advancements in bullet technology. Despite its higher recoil and cost, it remains a preferred choice for shooters who value its balance of power and capacity, and who are willing to invest the time and resources to master its characteristics.

Ultimately, the choice between 9mm and .40 S&W will depend on individual preferences, shooting goals, and comfort levels with the respective recoil and costs associated with each caliber.