40 Caliber

[Crow1108]

I like both, but I seem to shoot a little better with my .45.

 

[wally]

I like the .40S&W because I think its about the optimum available for sub compact guns like the Kahr PM40.

In full sized guns I prefer the .45ACP, and at the range I shoot a lot of 9mm for the much cheaper ammo. However I'm reloading and shooting a lot more .40S&W lately because of all the free brass left on the ground at our club from the local LEO that practice there.

--wally.

 

[xray 99]

A person armed with a .40 and good ammo is packing a fine self-defense pistol. However, I don't think it leaves the 9mm or .45 in the dust. Given the 9 is easier to control and cheaper, I think it the best defense round for me.

 

[Mortech]

I really like the 40S&W as a nice compromise round .

+100 on the 10MM Auto option

 

[SDDL-UP]

I like the 40 because it's a good caliber!

For those that whine that the 9mm isn't enough - there is the 40! For those that want more capacity than a 45 - there is the 40! For a lot of people the 9mm and 45 are just fine, but many think the 40 is the best of both worlds. I own and like all three, but I own more 9mm's than anything else - because of the various platforms.

 

[SubSolar]

I like it because usually any given model of 9mm will come in .40 S&W. And in California, we are restricted to 10 rounds, so the 9mm has no advantage in a self defense situation.

 

[DougDubya]

Why is there never the option

I don't care as long as it goes bang.

Happiness speaks truth.

 

[thebear101]

I use the 40S&W's to make into the 41AE's use the 41 mag lee dies, use the steel lathe to cut the rim down, push the 41 mag 210 grnr bullets in and fireform the shells, than you are ready to use the 40S&W reloading book, basicaly the 40 kicked the 41ae out, basicaly same reloading info though, these work fine in my Uzi carbine, I do the same thing to the 45acp small primer brass to (turn the rim down to 9mm) so I can use the same bolt and mag, All I do is change barrels to change cals, cals are 9mm 357sig 400 car bon 45acp, with the exception of my 22 conversion

 

[jlh26oo]

It's a nice compromise between 9mm and .45acp in terms of capacity, performance, platform size & weight, and cost. BUt since I usually pick up 7x.45 over 12x.40, I guess I prefer higher performance at lower pressure but Y.M.M.V. because the .40 S&W is great too!

 

[Kind of Blued]

I like the .40S&W but do not need it because I already have 9mm and .45ACP.

 

[wingman]

I shoot 40 and 45acp most of the time enjoy both but if I had to choose I would take the 45acp I find it more accurate with most guns, I believe at "close range" it has more knock down power and as a reloader the 45acp is easier in selecting powders and longer life in brass or that has been my experience.

 

[FloriDave]

Funny so many seem to go for 9mm and 45, with the 40 S&W not needed in between. I use 10mm and 40S&W, same philosophy, just a step up in power all around. My 1911's are 10mm, with Glock & H&K USP 40 S&W. I do have one 1911 in 45acp, but rarely shoot it.
I do reload both 10mm and 40s&w, and would have just 10mm, except for the CCW platforms for the 40 cal. (Glock 27) For me, it's the best combination of firepower and size.

 

[jhco]

hits harder than 9mm and you fit more in a mag than with 45
but i like them all

 

[innerpiece]

I like the 9mm best because its what I am most proficiant with.

Id rather be better with a 9mm, than be not as good with something a lil bigger, and a lil faster.

just me..
ip.

 

[azhunter122]

I like the .40 S&W for these reasons:

- Ammo is somewhat cheap compared to other calibers like .45 and .357's. I get it for $12.00 a box.

- Fast like a 9mm

- Big like a .45 ACP

- Good recoil (for myself anyways)

- Ideal for SD, HD, and LE use.

- Mag capacity of a 9mm.

- It is the best of both worlds from a 9mm and a .45.

 

[SDGlock23]

I really like the .40 myself. My G23 was my first centerfire auto pistol and it's probably still my favorite. I reload for everything I shoot and the .40 is very accurate, despite some that say it isn't. It can be VERY accurate.

From a power perspective, it's got plenty. Factory loads are more than capable of getting the job done, and if you want to get spicy, just throw in a 6" barrel and the .40 can easily achieve over 800 ft-lbs. Very versatile.

 

[Almond27]

.40 is a very respectable round and any caliber is suitable so its all a matter of personal preference