Firearms Facts: Is .40 Caliber Dead?

Published on February 10, 2018
Duration: 23:55

The .40 S&W caliber, once popular with law enforcement, is experiencing a decline due to advancements in 9mm ammunition and the rise of pistol caliber carbines. While still a potent round, its recoil, lower magazine capacity compared to 9mm, and the availability of affordable police surplus .40 handguns indicate a shrinking market share. Niche calibers like 10mm and .45 ACP continue to serve specific purposes, leaving .40 S&W in a difficult position.

Quick Summary

The .40 S&W caliber, developed in 1990 for the FBI, is declining due to modern 9mm advancements, higher recoil, lower magazine capacity, and the popularity of 9mm Pistol Caliber Carbines. Affordable police surplus .40 handguns also signal a market shift.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Is .40 Caliber Dead? Intro
  2. 01:28.40 S&W Origins & FBI History
  3. 02:45Ballistic Data: .40 S&W vs 10mm
  4. 06:069mm Advancements vs. .40 S&W
  5. 11:17Police Surplus Market Impact
  6. 15:33Logistics & PCC Compatibility
  7. 18:45Niche Roles of 10mm & .45 ACP

Frequently Asked Questions

Why was the .40 S&W caliber developed?

The .40 S&W was developed in 1990 as a response to the FBI's need for a cartridge less powerful than the 10mm but more potent than traditional 9mm loads, following FBI testing that found the 10mm too difficult for some agents to handle effectively.

What are the main reasons for the decline of the .40 S&W caliber?

The .40 S&W's decline is attributed to advancements in 9mm ammunition closing the performance gap, 9mm's advantages in recoil, magazine capacity, and cost, and the rise of Pistol Caliber Carbines (PCCs) favoring 9mm for parts commonality.

How does the recoil of .40 S&W compare to 9mm and .45 ACP?

The .40 S&W is known for having a 'snappier' recoil impulse compared to both 9mm and .45 ACP. This is often due to its bore diameter and the way propellant energy is utilized, making follow-up shots potentially slower for some shooters.

What is the significance of the police surplus market for .40 caliber firearms?

The large influx of police trade-in .40 S&W handguns, often sold affordably under $300, is a strong indicator of departments switching back to 9mm. This surplus availability impacts the resale value and perceived relevance of the .40 caliber.

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