9mm vs 40 S&W ballistic gel: Head to Head!

Published on June 19, 2021
Duration: 9:39

This ballistic gel test compares 9mm +P and .40 S&W HST ammunition. The .40 S&W demonstrated more dramatic expansion, while the 9mm +P achieved greater penetration. The host notes that .40 S&W offers superior terminal ballistics, but 9mm provides advantages in capacity and recoil management, especially in compact firearms.

Quick Summary

In a ballistic gel test, .40 S&W Federal Premium 180gr HST achieved 965.5 fps average velocity and 14 inches penetration with significant expansion. The 9mm +P Speer Gold Dot 124gr reached 1109.5 fps average velocity and 18 inches penetration, with slightly smaller wound tracks.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: 9mm vs .40 S&W Gel Test
  2. 00:42Firearms Used: Glock 29 & S&W 3913
  3. 01:10Ammunition: Federal HST vs Speer Gold Dot +P
  4. 02:59.40 S&W Ballistic Gel Results
  5. 04:579mm +P Ballistic Gel Results
  6. 06:25Comparison and Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the results of the .40 S&W ballistic gel test?

The .40 S&W Federal Premium 180gr HST achieved velocities between 957-974 fps, penetrating 13.75 to 14.25 inches in ballistic gel after passing through four layers of denim. Recovered bullets showed significant expansion.

How did the 9mm perform in the ballistic gel test?

The 9mm +P Speer Gold Dot 124gr reached velocities of 1103-1116 fps, penetrating approximately 18 inches in ballistic gel. While penetration was deeper, the wound tracks appeared slightly smaller than the .40 S&W.

Which caliber offered better terminal ballistics in the gel test?

The .40 S&W demonstrated more dramatic expansion of the projectile, suggesting potentially better terminal ballistics in terms of wound channel width. However, the 9mm achieved greater penetration depth.

What are the practical differences between 9mm and .40 S&W for self-defense?

While .40 S&W may offer superior terminal performance, 9mm is often preferred for self-defense due to its higher ammunition capacity in compact firearms and reduced recoil, making it easier to shoot accurately.

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