Firearms Facts: Is .40 Caliber Dead?

Published on February 10, 2018
Duration: 23:55

This video provides an objective analysis of the .40 S&W caliber's current standing in the firearms market. It delves into its history, ballistic comparisons with other popular calibers like 9mm and 10mm, and discusses factors contributing to its perceived decline, such as police surplus and the rise of 9mm in pistol caliber carbines. The expert highlights the trade-offs in recoil, capacity, and cost that influence shooter and agency choices.

Quick Summary

The .40 S&W caliber, developed after the FBI found 10mm too powerful, faces declining popularity due to advancements in 9mm ammunition, higher recoil, lower magazine capacity, and a surplus of affordable police trade-in firearms. While still viable, 9mm often presents a more practical choice for general use.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the .40 Caliber Debate
  2. 01:28Origins and FBI History
  3. 02:45Ballistic Data Comparisons
  4. 06:069mm Advancements vs. .40 S&W
  5. 11:17The Police Surplus Market
  6. 15:33Logistics and Carbine Compatibility
  7. 18:45The Niche of 10mm and .45 ACP

Frequently Asked Questions

What led to the development of the .40 S&W caliber?

The .40 S&W was developed in 1990 after the FBI found the 10mm Auto too powerful for many agents to handle effectively. It was designed as a shorter, less potent version of the 10mm, often called '10mm Lite'.

How does the recoil of .40 S&W compare to 9mm and 10mm?

The .40 S&W is generally considered to have snappier recoil than 9mm due to its bore diameter and propellant characteristics. While powerful, it's less potent than 10mm, which also exhibits significantly more recoil.

Why is the .40 S&W caliber declining in popularity?

Several factors contribute to the decline: modern 9mm loads are more powerful, 9mm offers lower recoil and higher capacity, and a large surplus of affordable police trade-in .40 S&W firearms has flooded the used market.

What role does ammunition cost play in caliber choice?

Ammunition cost is a significant factor for many shooters. 9mm is typically the most affordable, followed by .40 S&W, and then 10mm, making 9mm a more economical choice for frequent practice.

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