We Didn't Deserve .40 S&W

Published on October 5, 2025
Duration: 14:00

This video appears to be a personal reflection on the .40 S&W cartridge, with the creator expressing a sentiment that it was perhaps an unnecessary development. The description humorously touches on shooting conditions, specifically the sun interfering with sight, leading to a self-deprecating comment about closing an eye to aim. The creator also promotes their social media presence on Instagram and Subscribe Star, suggesting a content creator focused on firearms.

Quick Summary

The .40 Smith & Wesson cartridge was created for law enforcement seeking more power than 9mm but less recoil than 10mm. Its decline is attributed to 9mm advancements and strong commercial demand for 9mm, making it less appealing for manufacturers to develop new .40 S&W offerings.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to .40 S&W Hate
  2. 00:11Video Topic: .40 Smith & Wesson
  3. 00:25History and Decline of .40 S&W
  4. 01:18Miami Shootout and 9mm Failure
  5. 01:3810mm vs. .40 S&W for Law Enforcement
  6. 02:31Smith & Wesson Creates .40 S&W
  7. 03:35Performance Specs: 10mm vs. .40 S&W vs. 9mm
  8. 04:35Bullet Drop Comparison
  9. 05:43Velocity, Energy, and Wounding Capabilities
  10. 06:01Recoil and Manageability
  11. 06:38.40 S&W as an Intermediate Round
  12. 07:16Why .40 S&W Fell Off: Advancements in 9mm
  13. 08:27The Role of the Commercial Market
  14. 09:549mm Progresses, .40 S&W Falls Behind
  15. 10:08Recoil Energy Comparison: 9mm vs. .40 S&W
  16. 10:30Personal Shooting Experience with .40 S&W
  17. 11:10Firearm Choice and Recoil Management
  18. 12:00Comparing Recoil, Package Size, and Ballistics
  19. 12:15Market Challenges for .40 S&W Expansion
  20. 13:03Conclusion: A Beautiful Intermediate
  21. 13:23Final Thoughts

Frequently Asked Questions

Why was the .40 Smith & Wesson cartridge developed?

The .40 Smith & Wesson was developed in response to the 1986 FBI Miami shootout, where 9mm ammunition was found to be inadequate. Law enforcement sought a cartridge offering more power than 9mm but with less recoil and a smaller package than 10mm Auto.

What are the main performance differences between .40 S&W, 9mm, and 10mm?

10mm Auto generally offers the most energy and flattest trajectory. .40 S&W provides a balance with more power than 9mm but less recoil than 10mm. 9mm Luger has the least recoil and is now competitive in power due to +P advancements.

Why did the .40 Smith & Wesson caliber decline in popularity?

The decline is largely due to advancements in 9mm ammunition, particularly +P loads, which allowed 9mm to match .40 S&W's power. The strong commercial market preference for 9mm also reduced the incentive for manufacturers to invest in .40 S&W development.

How does recoil compare between .40 S&W and 9mm?

.40 Smith & Wesson typically has a higher recoil energy rating (around 10) compared to 9mm Luger (around 7.3). While manageable, this difference can affect follow-up shot speed and shooter comfort, though firearm choice and grip are significant factors.

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