.40 S&W vs. 9mm — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman & Urooj Arif — Published on February 14, 2024
.40 S&W and 9mm are handgun cartridges. The .40 S&W is larger with more recoil, while the 9mm is smaller, offering higher magazine capacity and milder recoil.
Difference Between .40 S&W and 9mm
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
.40 S&W (Smith & Wesson) is a handgun cartridge introduced in the early 1990s, known for its larger caliber and stopping power. It was designed to provide a compromise between the power of .45 ACP and the magazine capacity of 9mm. The .40 S&W cartridge has a larger diameter than the 9mm, resulting in increased recoil and a more substantial round. This caliber is often chosen by law enforcement and those who prioritize stopping power in a compact cartridge.
On the other hand, 9mm, or 9x19mm Parabellum, is a widely used handgun cartridge known for its versatility and popularity. Introduced in 1902, the 9mm cartridge has become a standard for military, law enforcement, and civilian use. It has a smaller diameter compared to the .40 S&W, resulting in less recoil. The 9mm's design allows for higher magazine capacity, making it a preferred choice for those who prioritize ammunition capacity and ease of control during rapid-fire scenarios.
Comparison Chart
Caliber Diameter
Larger
Smaller
Recoil
More substantial
Milder
Magazine Capacity
Lower due to larger cartridge size
Higher due to smaller cartridge size
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Stopping Power
Higher
Considered adequate
Versatility
Limited due to larger caliber
Versatile in various applications
Compare with Definitions
.40 S&W
Introduced in the early 1990s as a compromise between .45 ACP and 9mm.
The .40 S&W was designed to provide a balance between the power of .45 ACP and the magazine capacity of the 9mm.
9mm
Considered to have adequate stopping power in various applications.
The 9mm is often chosen for its balance of stopping power and controllability, making it suitable for a range of uses.
.40 S&W
Handgun cartridge known for a larger caliber and stopping power.
The .40 S&W is favored by some law enforcement agencies for its potent stopping power in a compact cartridge.
9mm
Introduced in 1902, offering a smaller diameter and milder recoil.
The 9mm's design allows for ease of control during rapid-fire scenarios, contributing to its enduring popularity.
.40 S&W
Limited magazine capacity compared to smaller-caliber options.
The .40 S&W may have a lower magazine capacity due to the larger size of the cartridge.
9mm
Known for higher magazine capacity compared to larger-caliber options.
Shooters appreciate the 9mm's ability to hold more rounds in a magazine, providing increased ammunition capacity.
.40 S&W
Popular among those who prioritize stopping power.
Some self-defense enthusiasts prefer the .40 S&W for its larger caliber, emphasizing the importance of stopping power.
9mm
Widely used handgun cartridge known for versatility and popularity.
The 9mm is a standard choice for military, law enforcement, and civilian applications due to its widespread use.
.40 S&W
Notable for its increased recoil due to a larger diameter.
Shooters using the .40 S&W should be prepared for a more substantial recoil compared to smaller-caliber cartridges.
9mm
Versatile cartridge suitable for various handguns and shooting styles.
The 9mm's versatility allows it to be used in a wide array of handguns, appealing to shooters with different preferences.
Common Curiosities
Why was the .40 S&W introduced?
The .40 S&W was introduced in the early 1990s as a compromise between the power of .45 ACP and the magazine capacity of 9mm, aiming for a balanced cartridge.
How does the 9mm contribute to ease of control during rapid-fire scenarios?
The 9mm's smaller diameter results in milder recoil, allowing for better control during rapid-fire situations compared to larger-caliber options.
How does the recoil of the .40 S&W impact shooters?
Shooters using the .40 S&W should be prepared for a more substantial recoil compared to smaller-caliber options, influencing ease of control.
When was the 9mm introduced, and why is it popular?
The 9mm was introduced in 1902 and is popular due to its versatility, widespread use in military and law enforcement, and balanced combination of stopping power and recoil.
Does the .40 S&W have limitations in terms of magazine capacity?
Yes, the .40 S&W may have lower magazine capacity compared to the 9mm due to the larger size of the cartridge.
What distinguishes the .40 S&W from the 9mm in terms of caliber?
The .40 S&W has a larger caliber diameter compared to the 9mm, resulting in increased stopping power but also more substantial recoil.
Is the .40 S&W suitable for concealed carry?
Some individuals choose the .40 S&W for concealed carry, valuing its stopping power, but the larger caliber may affect the size of the firearm.
How does the .40 S&W perform in terms of stopping power?
The .40 S&W is known for its increased stopping power compared to smaller-caliber options, making it a choice for those who prioritize this aspect.
Why might law enforcement agencies choose the .40 S&W?
Some law enforcement agencies choose the .40 S&W for its larger caliber and stopping power, prioritizing these factors in a compact cartridge.
Is the 9mm suitable for self-defense?
Yes, the 9mm is considered suitable for self-defense, offering a balance of stopping power, magazine capacity, and controllability.
Is the 9mm suitable for competitive shooting?
Yes, the 9mm is commonly used in competitive shooting due to its balanced combination of stopping power, magazine capacity, and ease of control.
Why does the 9mm have higher magazine capacity?
The 9mm's smaller cartridge size allows for higher magazine capacity compared to larger-caliber options, providing more rounds in a standard-sized magazine.
Can the .40 S&W be used for target shooting?
Yes, the .40 S&W can be used for target shooting, but shooters should be mindful of the recoil impact on their shooting experience.
How versatile is the 9mm in terms of firearms?
The 9mm is highly versatile, compatible with various handguns, making it a popular choice for shooters with different preferences and applications.
Is the 9mm suitable for law enforcement use?
Yes, the 9mm is widely adopted by law enforcement agencies worldwide, offering a balanced combination of stopping power and magazine capacity.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
