40 s&w for Sale

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40 S&W Overview

Developed in 1990 by Smith & Wesson and Winchester, the 40 S&W cartridge balances power and manageable recoil. It was designed to offer law enforcement a versatile alternative to 9mm and .45 ACP. The 40 S&W remains popular for self-defense and duty applications across the shooting community.

Why the 40 S&W Is a Top Choice

Balanced recoil with effective stopping power
Widely adopted by law enforcement agencies
Many reliable firearms chambered for it
Good availability of defensive and training ammo
Versatile for duty, self-defense, and range use

Key Variants

40 S&W FMJ

Full metal jacket rounds ideal for practice and training due to consistent feeding and cost-effective production.

40 S&W +P

Higher-pressure loading offering increased velocity and energy for enhanced stopping power in self-defense scenarios.

40 S&W Critical Duty

Designed for law enforcement with premium projectiles offering excellent barrier penetration and expansion.

Competitor Comparison

Feature	40 S&w	9mm	.45 ACP
MSRP (Ammo)	Moderate	Low	High
Capacity (Typical Pistol)	13-15 rounds	15-17 rounds	7-10 rounds
Weight (Ammo)	Heavier than 9mm	Lightest	Heaviest
Optics-Ready Pistols	Available	Widely Available	More Limited
Trigger Type	Double/Single or Striker	Striker	Double/Single
Notable Pro	Good stopping power, balanced recoil	High capacity, low recoil	Powerful, effective at short range
Notable Con	More recoil than 9mm	Less stopping power	Lower capacity, heavier recoil

Best Use Cases

Self-defense and home protection
Law enforcement and duty carry
Range training and practice
Competitive shooting events
Collection and historical interest

FAQs

Can I use 40 S&W ammo in any pistol chambered for it?

Yes, ensure your pistol is rated for 40 S&W or 40 S&W +P if using higher pressure rounds. Always consult manufacturer specs.

What is the typical effective range of the 40 S&W?

Effective range is generally up to 50 yards for self-defense, with optimal accuracy within 25 yards.

How does 40 S&W compare to 9mm in recoil?

The 40 S&W has noticeably more recoil than 9mm, which can affect rapid follow-up shots.

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