{"id":4896,"date":"2026-09-26T05:37:49","date_gmt":"2026-09-26T05:37:49","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/?p=4896"},"modified":"2026-09-26T11:02:41","modified_gmt":"2026-09-26T11:02:41","slug":"40sw-vs-9mm","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/40sw-vs-9mm\/","title":{"rendered":"Getting Defensive: The 9mm Luger vs the .40 S&#038;W"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>The 9mm Luger and .40 S&amp;W are two of the most capable and reliable rounds available for handgun owners. These cartridges can deliver consistent performance in a self-defense situation, but they are also popular for recreational target shooting and competition. So let&#8217;s dive into this 40 S&amp;W vs. 9mm analysis.<\/p>\n<h2>Fast Answers: 9mm Luger vs .40 Smith &amp; Wesson<\/h2>\n<p>Can\u2019t wait for the details? Here are the quick results from our 9mm Luger vs .40 S&amp;W comparison:<\/p>\n<p><strong>Benefits of the 9mm Luger:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Lower price<\/li>\n<li>More ammo options<\/li>\n<li>Less recoil<\/li>\n<li>Easier concealment<\/li>\n<li>Higher capacity<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Benefits of the 40 S&amp;W:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Faster speeds<\/li>\n<li>More stopping power<\/li>\n<li>Better for hunting<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>.40 S&amp;W vs 9mm<\/h2>\n<p>40 Smith &amp; Wesson delivers more energy toward your target. Shooters consider it to have more &#8220;stopping power&#8221; than 9mm. That said, 9mm is cheaper to shoot with friendlier recoil for the shooter, making follow-up shots more likely to land on target.<\/p>\n<p>When comparing the two, you&#8217;ll find a bunch of similarities. There are, however, distinct differences that make each round unique. There&#8217;s a reason these are two of the most popular pistol calibers in the world.<\/p>\n\n<table id=\"tablepress-717\" class=\"tablepress tablepress-id-717\">\n<thead>\n<tr class=\"row-1\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><\/td><th class=\"column-2\">9x19mm Luger (9mm Parabellum, 9mm NATO)<\/th><th class=\"column-3\">.40 Smith &amp; Wesson (.40 S&amp;W)<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody class=\"row-striping row-hover\">\n<tr class=\"row-2\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Released<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">1901<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">1990<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-3\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Bullet diameter<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">0.355 inches<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">0.4 inches<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-4\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Neck diameter<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">0.38 inches<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">0.423 inches<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-5\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Base diameter<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">0.391 inches<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">0.424 inches<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-6\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Rim diameter<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">0.392 inches<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">0.424 inches<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-7\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Case length<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">0.754 inches<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">0.85 inches<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-8\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Total length<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">1.169 inches<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">1.135 inches<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-9\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Bullet weights<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">70- 150 grains<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">120 -  200 grains<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-10\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Common firearm<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Semiautomatic pistols<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">Semiautomatic pistols<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-11\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Common magazine capacity<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Up to 20 rounds<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">Up to 15 rounds<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<!-- #tablepress-717 from cache -->\n<h3><\/h3>\n<h3>About the 9mm Luger (AKA 9mm Parabellum)<\/h3>\n<figure id=\"attachment_4923\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-4923\" style=\"width: 1200px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-4923 size-full\" title=\"Glock 19 9mm handgun\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/uploads\/Glock-19-9mm-pistol.jpg\" alt=\"Glock 19 9mm pistol\" width=\"1200\" height=\"586\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/uploads\/Glock-19-9mm-pistol.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/uploads\/Glock-19-9mm-pistol-300x147.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/uploads\/Glock-19-9mm-pistol-1024x500.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-4923\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">The popular Glock 19 pistol, a firearm designed to fire 9mm ammo<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/pistol-ammo-9mm\">9mm Luger<\/a>, also known as the \u201c9mm Parabellum\u201d or simply \u201c9 millimeter\u201d (although it\u2019s not the only 9mm round), is one of the most successful handgun cartridges of all time. Released in 1901, this round has stood the test of time, delivering reliable performance for law enforcement, military, and self-defense purposes.<\/p>\n<p>It is a low-cost, readily-available cartridge that gives users a strong balance between power and manageable recoil. While the round was used for many purposes in the early 20th century, its popularity skyrocketed in the 1980\u2019s and 90\u2019s, as police and military forces began adopting the round. 9mm remains one of the most popular rounds in the world. It\u2019s possible that more 9mm Luger rounds have been fired from handguns than any other cartridge. (With the possible exception of the .22 long rifle)<\/p>\n<h3>About the .40 Smith &amp; Wesson<\/h3>\n<figure id=\"attachment_4924\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-4924\" style=\"width: 1200px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-4924\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/uploads\/Glock-22-40-SW-pistol.jpg\" alt=\"Glock 22 40 S&amp;W pistol\" width=\"1200\" height=\"747\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/uploads\/Glock-22-40-SW-pistol.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/uploads\/Glock-22-40-SW-pistol-300x187.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/uploads\/Glock-22-40-SW-pistol-1024x637.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-4924\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">A Glock 22 pistol chambered to use 40 S&amp;W ammo.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>The .40 Smith and Wesson, commonly written as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/index.php\/cName\/pistol-ammo-40-sw\">.40 S&amp;W<\/a>, is a newer round that was developed specifically for law enforcement. A ton of handgun owners adopted it since its introduction. Most of those new owners are concerned with personal protection.<\/p>\n<p>The goal of the designers was to create a round that has superior stopping power without limiting the cartridge\u2019s load capacity. Essentially, they wanted a stronger bullet that was not so large it couldn\u2019t fit into reasonably-sized handguns without limiting load capacity.<\/p>\n<p>The round is larger in diameter and generally packs heavier bullets than the 9mm Luger, giving it tremendous stopping power and lethality.<\/p>\n<h2>.40 S&amp;W vs. 9mm Luger<\/h2>\n<div class=\"mc-shortcode\">\n    <div class=\"mc-shortcode__carousel\">\n                                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__col\"  data-bannerIndex=\"1\">\n                <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/50rds-9mm-federal-american-eagle-115gr-fmj-ammo?utm_source=Blog&utm_medium=product_carousel&utm_campaign=post&utm_content=40sw-vs-9mm\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"mc-shortcode__container\" onmouseout=\"handleShortCodeProductOut(event);\" onmouseover=\"handleShortCodeProductOver(event);\">\n                    <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product\">\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content\">\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-contanier\">\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-image\">\n                                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static-cdn.ammunitiontogo.com\/pimages\/image\/512x\/e0266470459c8672771a1cb2d1bebeb3\/9\/7\/972478aad31644412f2ca116d40c80ff_5.jpg\" width=\"70\" height=\"70\" alt=\"product\" \/>\n                                <\/div>\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price\">\n                                                                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price-final\">\n                                            $15.95                                        <\/div>\n                                                                    <\/div>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-logo\">\n                                <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/themes\/atg\/assets\/img\/mc-logo-gray.svg\" alt=\"logo\" width=\"44\" height=\"40\" \/>\n                            <\/div>\n                        <\/div>\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-title\">\n                            50rds - 9mm Federal American Eagle 115gr. FMJ Ammo                        <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/a>\n            <\/div>\n                                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__col\"  data-bannerIndex=\"2\">\n                <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/50rds-9mm-blazer-115gr-fmj-ammo?utm_source=Blog&utm_medium=product_carousel&utm_campaign=post&utm_content=40sw-vs-9mm\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"mc-shortcode__container\" onmouseout=\"handleShortCodeProductOut(event);\" onmouseover=\"handleShortCodeProductOver(event);\">\n                    <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product\">\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content\">\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-contanier\">\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-image\">\n                                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static-cdn.ammunitiontogo.com\/pimages\/image\/512x\/e0266470459c8672771a1cb2d1bebeb3\/e\/e\/eed5603d0a35413898761e168320f7fe_6.jpg\" width=\"70\" height=\"70\" alt=\"product\" \/>\n                                <\/div>\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price\">\n                                                                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price-final\">\n                                            $14.95                                        <\/div>\n                                                                    <\/div>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-logo\">\n                                <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/themes\/atg\/assets\/img\/mc-logo-gray.svg\" alt=\"logo\" width=\"44\" height=\"40\" \/>\n                            <\/div>\n                        <\/div>\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-title\">\n                            50rds \u2013 9mm Blazer Aluminum 115gr. FMJ Ammo                        <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/a>\n            <\/div>\n                                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__col\" hidden data-bannerIndex=\"3\">\n                <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/50rds-40-sw-winchester-usa-180gr-fmj-ammo?utm_source=Blog&utm_medium=product_carousel&utm_campaign=post&utm_content=40sw-vs-9mm\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"mc-shortcode__container\" onmouseout=\"handleShortCodeProductOut(event);\" onmouseover=\"handleShortCodeProductOver(event);\">\n                    <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product\">\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content\">\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-contanier\">\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-image\">\n                                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static-cdn.ammunitiontogo.com\/pimages\/image\/512x\/e0266470459c8672771a1cb2d1bebeb3\/0\/4\/04d88620dc3a912486150a33ddc5e96f_4.jpg\" width=\"70\" height=\"70\" alt=\"product\" \/>\n                                <\/div>\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price\">\n                                                                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price-final\">\n                                            $17.95                                        <\/div>\n                                                                    <\/div>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-logo\">\n                                <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/themes\/atg\/assets\/img\/mc-logo-gray.svg\" alt=\"logo\" width=\"44\" height=\"40\" \/>\n                            <\/div>\n                        <\/div>\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-title\">\n                            50rds - 40 S&W Winchester USA 180gr. FMJ Ammo                        <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/a>\n            <\/div>\n                                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__col\" hidden data-bannerIndex=\"4\">\n                <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/500rds-40-sw-winchester-usa-180gr-fmj-ammo?utm_source=Blog&utm_medium=product_carousel&utm_campaign=post&utm_content=40sw-vs-9mm\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"mc-shortcode__container\" onmouseout=\"handleShortCodeProductOut(event);\" onmouseover=\"handleShortCodeProductOver(event);\">\n                    <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product\">\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content\">\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-contanier\">\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-image\">\n                                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static-cdn.ammunitiontogo.com\/pimages\/image\/512x\/e0266470459c8672771a1cb2d1bebeb3\/3\/e\/3e65888367a8d95c6b84757a959a31d4.jpg\" width=\"70\" height=\"70\" alt=\"product\" \/>\n                                <\/div>\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price\">\n                                                                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price-final\">\n                                            $174.95                                        <\/div>\n                                                                    <\/div>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-logo\">\n                                <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/themes\/atg\/assets\/img\/mc-logo-gray.svg\" alt=\"logo\" width=\"44\" height=\"40\" \/>\n                            <\/div>\n                        <\/div>\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-title\">\n                            500rds - 40 S&W Winchester USA 180gr. FMJ Ammo                        <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/a>\n            <\/div>\n                                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__col\" hidden data-bannerIndex=\"5\">\n                <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/50rds-40-sw-sellier-bellot-180gr-fmj-ammo?utm_source=Blog&utm_medium=product_carousel&utm_campaign=post&utm_content=40sw-vs-9mm\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"mc-shortcode__container\" onmouseout=\"handleShortCodeProductOut(event);\" onmouseover=\"handleShortCodeProductOver(event);\">\n                    <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product\">\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content\">\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-contanier\">\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-image\">\n                                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static-cdn.ammunitiontogo.com\/pimages\/image\/512x\/e0266470459c8672771a1cb2d1bebeb3\/8\/f\/8f31da348a4166fa72f3c27bad3116c7_4.jpg\" width=\"70\" height=\"70\" alt=\"product\" \/>\n                                <\/div>\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price\">\n                                                                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price-final\">\n                                            $19.95                                        <\/div>\n                                                                    <\/div>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-logo\">\n                                <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/themes\/atg\/assets\/img\/mc-logo-gray.svg\" alt=\"logo\" width=\"44\" height=\"40\" \/>\n                            <\/div>\n                        <\/div>\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-title\">\n                            50rds - 40 S&W Sellier & Bellot 180gr. FMJ Ammo                        <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/a>\n            <\/div>\n                                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__col\" hidden data-bannerIndex=\"6\">\n                <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/1000rds-9mm-federal-american-eagle-115gr-fmj-ammo?utm_source=Blog&utm_medium=product_carousel&utm_campaign=post&utm_content=40sw-vs-9mm\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"mc-shortcode__container\" onmouseout=\"handleShortCodeProductOut(event);\" onmouseover=\"handleShortCodeProductOver(event);\">\n                    <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product\">\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content\">\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-contanier\">\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-image\">\n                                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static-cdn.ammunitiontogo.com\/pimages\/image\/512x\/e0266470459c8672771a1cb2d1bebeb3\/5\/7\/57627737df1bc9da5c5769e80f8d9e78_5.jpg\" width=\"70\" height=\"70\" alt=\"product\" \/>\n                                <\/div>\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price\">\n                                                                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price-final\">\n                                            $288.95                                        <\/div>\n                                                                    <\/div>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-logo\">\n                                <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/themes\/atg\/assets\/img\/mc-logo-gray.svg\" alt=\"logo\" width=\"44\" height=\"40\" \/>\n                            <\/div>\n                        <\/div>\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-title\">\n                            1000rds - 9mm Federal American Eagle 115gr. FMJ Ammo                        <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/a>\n            <\/div>\n                                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__col\" hidden data-bannerIndex=\"7\">\n                <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/1000rds-9mm-blazer-115gr-fmj-ammo?utm_source=Blog&utm_medium=product_carousel&utm_campaign=post&utm_content=40sw-vs-9mm\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"mc-shortcode__container\" onmouseout=\"handleShortCodeProductOut(event);\" onmouseover=\"handleShortCodeProductOver(event);\">\n                    <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product\">\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content\">\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-contanier\">\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-image\">\n                                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static-cdn.ammunitiontogo.com\/pimages\/image\/512x\/e0266470459c8672771a1cb2d1bebeb3\/3\/e\/3e9e04477fa183fa0883c93a81103d56_6.jpg\" width=\"70\" height=\"70\" alt=\"product\" \/>\n                                <\/div>\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price\">\n                                                                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price-final\">\n                                            $248.95                                        <\/div>\n                                                                    <\/div>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-logo\">\n                                <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/themes\/atg\/assets\/img\/mc-logo-gray.svg\" alt=\"logo\" width=\"44\" height=\"40\" \/>\n                            <\/div>\n                        <\/div>\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-title\">\n                            1000rds \u2013 9mm Blazer Aluminum 115gr. FMJ Ammo                        <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/a>\n            <\/div>\n                                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__col\" hidden data-bannerIndex=\"8\">\n                <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/50rds-40-sw-federal-american-eagle-165gr-fmj-ammo?utm_source=Blog&utm_medium=product_carousel&utm_campaign=post&utm_content=40sw-vs-9mm\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"mc-shortcode__container\" onmouseout=\"handleShortCodeProductOut(event);\" onmouseover=\"handleShortCodeProductOver(event);\">\n                    <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product\">\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content\">\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-contanier\">\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-image\">\n                                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static-cdn.ammunitiontogo.com\/pimages\/image\/512x\/e0266470459c8672771a1cb2d1bebeb3\/9\/b\/9b5cd2a264164045c4f74d761ddea5dc_5.jpg\" width=\"70\" height=\"70\" alt=\"product\" \/>\n                                <\/div>\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price\">\n                                                                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price-final\">\n                                            $21.95                                        <\/div>\n                                                                    <\/div>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-logo\">\n                                <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/themes\/atg\/assets\/img\/mc-logo-gray.svg\" alt=\"logo\" width=\"44\" height=\"40\" \/>\n                            <\/div>\n                        <\/div>\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-title\">\n                            50rds - 40 S&W Federal American Eagle 165gr. FMJ Ammo                        <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/a>\n            <\/div>\n                                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__col\" hidden data-bannerIndex=\"9\">\n                <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/1000rds-40-sw-federal-american-eagle-165gr-fmj-ammo?utm_source=Blog&utm_medium=product_carousel&utm_campaign=post&utm_content=40sw-vs-9mm\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"mc-shortcode__container\" onmouseout=\"handleShortCodeProductOut(event);\" onmouseover=\"handleShortCodeProductOver(event);\">\n                    <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product\">\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content\">\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-contanier\">\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-image\">\n                                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static-cdn.ammunitiontogo.com\/pimages\/image\/512x\/e0266470459c8672771a1cb2d1bebeb3\/a\/d\/ad02267545cbafd0df800f920949b4f8_5.jpg\" width=\"70\" height=\"70\" alt=\"product\" \/>\n                                <\/div>\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price\">\n                                                                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price-final\">\n                                            $419.95                                        <\/div>\n                                                                    <\/div>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-logo\">\n                                <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/themes\/atg\/assets\/img\/mc-logo-gray.svg\" alt=\"logo\" width=\"44\" height=\"40\" \/>\n                            <\/div>\n                        <\/div>\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-title\">\n                            1000rds - 40 S&W Federal American Eagle 165gr. FMJ Ammo                        <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/a>\n            <\/div>\n                                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__col\" hidden data-bannerIndex=\"10\">\n                <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/50rds-40-sw-winchester-usa-180gr-hp-ammo?utm_source=Blog&utm_medium=product_carousel&utm_campaign=post&utm_content=40sw-vs-9mm\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"mc-shortcode__container\" onmouseout=\"handleShortCodeProductOut(event);\" onmouseover=\"handleShortCodeProductOver(event);\">\n                    <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product\">\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content\">\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-contanier\">\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-image\">\n                                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static-cdn.ammunitiontogo.com\/pimages\/image\/512x\/e0266470459c8672771a1cb2d1bebeb3\/c\/7\/c785958e04eef3c0185010fe11941f0e_6.jpg\" width=\"70\" height=\"70\" alt=\"product\" \/>\n                                <\/div>\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price\">\n                                                                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price-final\">\n                                            $24.95                                        <\/div>\n                                                                    <\/div>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-logo\">\n                                <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/themes\/atg\/assets\/img\/mc-logo-gray.svg\" alt=\"logo\" width=\"44\" height=\"40\" \/>\n                            <\/div>\n                        <\/div>\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-title\">\n                            50rds - 40 S&W Winchester USA 180gr. HP Ammo                        <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/a>\n            <\/div>\n                                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__col\" hidden data-bannerIndex=\"11\">\n                <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/1000rds-9mm-blazer-brass-115gr-fmj-ammo?utm_source=Blog&utm_medium=product_carousel&utm_campaign=post&utm_content=40sw-vs-9mm\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"mc-shortcode__container\" onmouseout=\"handleShortCodeProductOut(event);\" onmouseover=\"handleShortCodeProductOver(event);\">\n                    <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product\">\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content\">\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-contanier\">\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-image\">\n                                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static-cdn.ammunitiontogo.com\/pimages\/image\/512x\/e0266470459c8672771a1cb2d1bebeb3\/5\/b\/5b8bdcfa788c775309625f562e602337_4.jpg\" width=\"70\" height=\"70\" alt=\"product\" \/>\n                                <\/div>\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price\">\n                                                                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price-final\">\n                                            $271.95                                        <\/div>\n                                                                    <\/div>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-logo\">\n                                <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/themes\/atg\/assets\/img\/mc-logo-gray.svg\" alt=\"logo\" width=\"44\" height=\"40\" \/>\n                            <\/div>\n                        <\/div>\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-title\">\n                            1000rds - 9mm Blazer Brass 115gr. FMJ Ammo                        <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/a>\n            <\/div>\n                                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__col\" hidden data-bannerIndex=\"12\">\n                <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/50rds-9mm-blazer-brass-115gr-fmj-ammo?utm_source=Blog&utm_medium=product_carousel&utm_campaign=post&utm_content=40sw-vs-9mm\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"mc-shortcode__container\" onmouseout=\"handleShortCodeProductOut(event);\" onmouseover=\"handleShortCodeProductOver(event);\">\n                    <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product\">\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content\">\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-contanier\">\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-image\">\n                                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static-cdn.ammunitiontogo.com\/pimages\/image\/512x\/e0266470459c8672771a1cb2d1bebeb3\/3\/3\/3348b53f6b70ee535ba545adbad23168_4.jpg\" width=\"70\" height=\"70\" alt=\"product\" \/>\n                                <\/div>\n                                <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price\">\n                                                                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-price-final\">\n                                            $15.75                                        <\/div>\n                                                                    <\/div>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-content-logo\">\n                                <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/themes\/atg\/assets\/img\/mc-logo-gray.svg\" alt=\"logo\" width=\"44\" height=\"40\" \/>\n                            <\/div>\n                        <\/div>\n                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__product-title\">\n                            50rds - 9mm Blazer Brass 115gr. FMJ Ammo                        <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/a>\n            <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"mc-shortcode__pagination\">\n        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__nav-left\" onClick=\"handleMcGetPreviousSlides(event);\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/themes\/atg\/assets\/img\/mc-arrow-left.svg\" alt=\"left icon\" width=\"16\" height=\"12\">\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__nav-steps\">\n                                                                        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__nav-number mc-shortcode__nav-number--selected\" data-slideIndex=\"2\" onClick=\"handleMcGetSlidesByIndex(event);\">\n                    1                <\/div>\n                                                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__nav-number\" data-slideIndex=\"4\" onClick=\"handleMcGetSlidesByIndex(event);\">\n                    2                <\/div>\n                                                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__nav-number\" data-slideIndex=\"6\" onClick=\"handleMcGetSlidesByIndex(event);\">\n                    3                <\/div>\n                                                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__nav-number mc-shortcode__nav-number--hidden\" data-slideIndex=\"8\" onClick=\"handleMcGetSlidesByIndex(event);\">\n                    4                <\/div>\n                                                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__nav-number mc-shortcode__nav-number--hidden\" data-slideIndex=\"10\" onClick=\"handleMcGetSlidesByIndex(event);\">\n                    5                <\/div>\n                                                            <div class=\"mc-shortcode__nav-number mc-shortcode__nav-number--hidden\" data-slideIndex=\"12\" onClick=\"handleMcGetSlidesByIndex(event);\">\n                    6                <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n        <div class=\"mc-shortcode__nav-right mc-shortcode__nav-right--active\" onClick=\"handleMcGetNextSlides(event);\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/themes\/atg\/assets\/img\/mc-arrow-right.svg\" alt=\"right icon\" width=\"16\" height=\"12\">\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h4>Price Comparison<\/h4>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-4927\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/uploads\/speer-gold-dot-9mm-vs-40-sw-1.jpg\" alt=\"Speer Gold Dot 9mm ammo\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1028\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/uploads\/speer-gold-dot-9mm-vs-40-sw-1.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/uploads\/speer-gold-dot-9mm-vs-40-sw-1-300x257.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/uploads\/speer-gold-dot-9mm-vs-40-sw-1-1024x877.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Pricing is an important factor for ammunition selection. If a cartridge is too expensive to fire regularly, you won\u2019t get the practice required to be a responsible and proficient handgun user. While neither of these two cartridges is expensive, the 9mm Luger tends to have a better price.<\/p>\n<p>As of writing this article, the most affordable .40 S&amp;W on Ammo To Go was $0.28 per round, while the 9mm could be purchased for $.22 per round. The most expensive .40 S&amp;W was nearly $2.50 a shot, while the 9mm only went to $2.10. If cost is a concern, the 9mm Luger holds a slight advantage. <em>(Prices used for context only and do not represent a price offer. See our site for official prices.)<\/em><\/p>\n<p><em><strong>Winner: 9mm Luger<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<h4><\/h4>\n<h3>9mm Luger vs. 40 S&amp;W: Velocity<\/h3>\n\n<table id=\"tablepress-718\" class=\"tablepress tablepress-id-718\">\n<thead>\n<tr class=\"row-1\">\n\t<th class=\"column-1\">9mm Luger<\/th><th class=\"column-2\">Muzzle (fps)<\/th><th class=\"column-3\">25 yards<\/th><th class=\"column-4\">50 yards<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody class=\"row-striping row-hover\">\n<tr class=\"row-2\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">115-grain <br \/>\nVOR-TX TAC-XP<br \/>\n(Barnes)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">1,125<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">1,079<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">1,040<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-3\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">124-grain<br \/>\nGolden Saber Defense<br \/>\n(Remington)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">1,125<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">1,074<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">1,031<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-4\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">135-grain<br \/>\nPersonal Defense Hydra-Shok<br \/>\n(Federal)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">1,060<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">1026<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">996<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-5\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">147-grain<br \/>\nGold Dot<br \/>\n(Speer)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">985<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">957<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">932<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-6\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Average<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">1,074<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">1,034<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">1,000<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-7\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><\/td><td class=\"column-2\"><\/td><td class=\"column-3\"><\/td><td class=\"column-4\"><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-8\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">.40 S&amp;W<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Muzzle (fps)<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">25 yards<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">50 yards<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-9\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">130-grain<br \/>\nXRG Defense HP<br \/>\n(Sellier &amp; Bellot)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">1,247<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">1,164<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">1,097<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-10\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">140-grain<br \/>\nVOR-TX TAC-XP<br \/>\n(Barnes)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">1,120<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">1,066<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">1,018<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-11\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">165-grain<br \/>\nGolden Saber brass JHP<br \/>\n(Remington)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">1,150<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">1,089<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">1,040<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-12\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">180-grain <br \/>\nGold Medal Action Pistol FMJ<br \/>\n(Federal) <\/td><td class=\"column-2\">950<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">926<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">904<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-13\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Average<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">1,117<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">1,061<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">1,015<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<!-- #tablepress-718 from cache -->\n<p>The speeds are close, but overall we see an advantage for the .40 S&amp;W. The 9mm Luger performs well and has enough speed to deliver high-quality ballistics and terminal performance. It starts around 1,000 fps at the muzzle, with some cartridges going over 1,100 fps. At 50 yards, it still hovers around 900 to 1,000 fps.<\/p>\n<p>The .40 S&amp;W is just a touch faster, with an average muzzle speed above 1,100 fps. In our sample, the fastest .40-caliber has an initial velocity approaching 1,250 fps, while the fastest 9mm was at 1,125 fps. Even at 50 yards, the .40 S&amp;W is a faster cartridge.<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>Winner: 9mm Luger<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>Energy for the .40 S&amp;W and 9mm Luger<\/h3>\n<figure id=\"attachment_4925\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-4925\" style=\"width: 1200px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-4925\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/uploads\/expnaded-9mm-vs-40-SW.jpg\" alt=\"A look at expanded 40 S&amp;W vs 9mm ammo rounds\" width=\"1200\" height=\"697\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/uploads\/expnaded-9mm-vs-40-SW.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/uploads\/expnaded-9mm-vs-40-SW-300x174.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/uploads\/expnaded-9mm-vs-40-SW-1024x595.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-4925\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">9mm (left) vs. 40 S&amp;W (right) jacketed hollow point ammo after we fired the rounds into ballistic gelatin<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n<table id=\"tablepress-719\" class=\"tablepress tablepress-id-719\">\n<thead>\n<tr class=\"row-1\">\n\t<th class=\"column-1\">9mm Luger<\/th><th class=\"column-2\">Muzzle (fps)<\/th><th class=\"column-3\">25 yards<\/th><th class=\"column-4\">50 yards<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody class=\"row-striping row-hover\">\n<tr class=\"row-2\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">9mm Luger<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Muzzle (ft-lbs)<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">25 yards<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">50 yards<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-3\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">115-grain <br \/>\nVOR-TX TAC-XP<br \/>\n(Barnes)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">323<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">297<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">276<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-4\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">124-grain<br \/>\nGolden Saber Defense<br \/>\n(Remington)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">348<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">317<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">293<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-5\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">135-grain<br \/>\nPersonal Defense Hydra-Shok<br \/>\n(Federal)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">337<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">316<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">298<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-6\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">147-grain<br \/>\nGold Dot<br \/>\n(Speer)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">317<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">299<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">284<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-7\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Average<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">331<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">307<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">288<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-8\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><\/td><td class=\"column-2\"><\/td><td class=\"column-3\"><\/td><td class=\"column-4\"><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-9\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">.40 S&amp;W<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Muzzle (fps)<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">25 yards<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">50 yards<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-10\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">130-grain<br \/>\nXRG Defense HP<br \/>\n(Sellier &amp; Bellot)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">449<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">391<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">347<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-11\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">140-grain<br \/>\nVOR-TX TAC-XP<br \/>\n(Barnes)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">394<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">353<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">323<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-12\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">165-grain<br \/>\nGolden Saber brass JHP<br \/>\n(Remington)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">484<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">435<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">396<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-13\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">180-grain <br \/>\nGold Medal Action Pistol FMJ<br \/>\n(Federal) <\/td><td class=\"column-2\">361<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">343<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">327<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-14\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Average<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">422<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">381<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">348<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<!-- #tablepress-719 from cache -->\n<p>The 9mm Luger is not known as a high-powered handgun cartridge, so it\u2019s really no surprise that it has less energy than the .40 S&amp;W, which has a reputation for excellent stopping power.<\/p>\n<p>These stats show the devastating potential of the .40-caliber cartridge. The average muzzle energy is 422 ft-lbs, but individual cartridges perform even better. For example, the 165-grain Golden Saber from Remington has a muzzle energy of 484 ft-lbs; that\u2019s a heavy amount for a pistol round.<\/p>\n<p>Even when the .40 has a lighter cartridge, it\u2019s more powerful than the 9mm Luger. (Thanks to higher speeds.) In our comparison, the 140-grain VOR-TX .40 S&amp;W product has a muzzle energy of 394 while the 147-grain 9mm starts at 317 ft-lbs.<\/p>\n<p>While it falls short of the .40 S&amp;W, the 9mm Luger performs well, showing its potential as a reliable defense round. In fact, this well-balanced power (not too much, not too little) is one of the main reasons for the round\u2019s popularity.<\/p>\n<p>But if we look strictly for high power, the .40 S&amp;W wins.<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>Winner: .40 S&amp;W<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<h4><\/h4>\n<h3>9mm vs .40 S&amp;W: Trajectory<\/h3>\n<p>While trajectory is a larger concern for distance target shooters and long-range hunters, it does make a difference in handguns. For this comparison, the clear difference in bullet size is largely the determining factor, as the heavier bullet of the .40 S&amp;W tends to drop faster than the 9mm. However, if you find two products with similarly-size bullets, you may actually find that the 9mm Luger drops more because it has a slightly smaller propellant load.<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>Winner: 9mm Luger (when using lighter bullets)<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<h3><\/h3>\n<h3>9mm Recoil vs. 40 Smith &amp; Wesson<\/h3>\n<p>For any self-defense weapon, manageable recoil is essential. While the .40 S&amp;W is not the hardest-thumping cartridge available, the 9mm is generally considered a round that has manageable recoil while still delivering a lethal strike to any threat. For smaller, weaker, or less-experienced shooters, the 9mm Luger is often a good choice. Recoil can also be important for training, as long afternoons firing a hard-hitting cartridge can be tiresome on the hands.<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>Winner: 9mm Luger<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>Potential Capacity<\/h3>\n<p>There is a never-ending debate over load capacity. How many rounds is enough? What is the ideal round capacity for an effective conceal-carry or home-defense weapon? For most people who are serious about personal protection, there is never too many, as long as the gun is not too large.<\/p>\n<p>When shopping for a handgun, you&#8217;ll find there is a slight advantage for the 9mm Luger. Many 9mm handguns pack up to 20 rounds, while the .40 maxes out at roughly 15. (Assuming a standard-length magazine.) So while the .40 S&amp;W delivers more power, the 9mm Luger allows shooters to place more bullets on target.<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>Winner: 9mm Luger<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2>.40 S&amp;W vs. 9mm Luger: Our Conclusions<\/h2>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-4928\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/uploads\/9mm-vs-40-headstamp.jpg\" alt=\"Size of 40 sw ammo vs 9mm ammo\" width=\"1200\" height=\"794\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/uploads\/9mm-vs-40-headstamp.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/uploads\/9mm-vs-40-headstamp-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/uploads\/9mm-vs-40-headstamp-1024x678.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>If you are concerned with price or recoil, the 9mm Luger is your best choice. It tends to have lower prices, largely due to widespread availability and a smaller profile, which means less material. It also delivers a lighter recoil than the .40 S&amp;W, making it more comfortable to fire while creating greater confidence in shooters.<\/p>\n<p>The .40 S&amp;W, however, simply has more speed and energy, resulting in greater stopping power. It delivers superior ballistics to the target, drives larger, often deeper wound channels, and generates more lethality. (This is not at all to say that the 9mm is a weak cartridge. It is, after all, the world\u2019s favorite defense round.) For this reason, people who want more power prefer the .40 S&amp;W over the 9mm Luger. There is, however, some momentum from federal agencies and self-defense experts pushing 9mm over .40 S&amp;W. In fact, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.washingtonpost.com\/world\/national-security\/fbi-moves-back-to-the-9mm-round-which-it-once-shunned-as-ineffective\/2015\/10\/31\/d7d0b994-7e80-11e5-afce-2afd1d3eb896_story.html\">FBI switched to 9mm from .40 S&amp;W in 2015<\/a>. This is a strong indication of the round\u2019s capabilities, but the numbers don\u2019t lie: the .40 S&amp;W is more powerful.<\/p>\n<p>Of course, no matter what you decide, we urge you to practice with your firearm. A strong shooter with a smaller, slower cartridge typically fares better than a weak shooter with poor marksmanship.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>40 S&#038;W and 9mm are two of the most popular handgun cartridges in the world. But which caliber is best for you? We help you decide in this caliber comparison.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":4918,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[142],"tags":[185,184,68,129],"class_list":["post-4896","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-caliber-comparisons","tag-40-sw","tag-9mm","tag-caliber-comparison","tag-handgun"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.6 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Getting Defensive: The 9mm Luger vs the .40 S&amp;W<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Two of the most popular pistol calibers in the world, but what are the differences between the .40 S&amp;W vs. 9mm? 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