The .40 Smith & Wesson (S&W) cartridge has enjoyed a long run as a popular law enforcement and civilian round. However, in recent years, questions have arisen regarding its future. Is the .40 S&W being phased out? The short answer is: it's complicated. While not officially discontinued, its popularity is waning, leading many to believe it's on the decline. This article will delve into the reasons behind this shift, examining the factors contributing to the .40 S&W's perceived decline and exploring its current standing in the firearms market.
The Rise and Fall (So Far) of the .40 S&W
The .40 S&W was introduced in 1990 as a compromise between the stopping power of the .45 ACP and the manageable recoil of the 9mm. Law enforcement agencies quickly adopted it, drawn to its advertised balance of power and control. This widespread adoption propelled the .40 S&W to prominence, making it a ubiquitous cartridge for many years.
Factors Contributing to the Decline
Several factors have contributed to the .40 S&W's decreasing popularity:
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Increased 9mm Performance: Advances in 9mm ammunition have significantly improved its stopping power. Modern 9mm rounds, with their improved bullet designs and higher velocities, now rival—and some argue exceed—the .40 S&W in effectiveness.
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Recoil and Shootability: While initially lauded for its manageable recoil, the .40 S&W's snappy recoil is now seen as a drawback, especially compared to the smoother shooting 9mm. This is particularly relevant in law enforcement, where officers need to make rapid follow-up shots accurately. Faster follow-up shots are more consistently achieved with the lower recoil of a 9mm.
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Magazine Capacity: The .40 S&W typically offers lower magazine capacity than the 9mm in similarly sized firearms. This translates to fewer rounds available in a self-defense or law enforcement situation. More rounds can be advantageous in critical situations.
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Cost: .40 S&W ammunition is often more expensive than 9mm, particularly in bulk purchases. This economic factor can be substantial, especially for agencies and individuals on a budget.
Case Studies: Law Enforcement Agencies Switching Calibers
Numerous law enforcement agencies have switched from the .40 S&W to the 9mm, underscoring the shift in preference. For example, the FBI famously switched back to the 9mm after extensive testing and analysis. Their findings suggested that the 9mm's improved accuracy and capacity made it a superior choice. Other major departments have followed suit, leading to a significant reduction in the overall demand for .40 S&W ammunition.
The Future of .40 S&W: Will it Disappear Completely?
Despite its dwindling popularity, it's unlikely that the .40 S&W will disappear entirely. There is still a dedicated following of shooters who appreciate the cartridge's performance. Furthermore, a substantial number of .40 S&W firearms already exist in the market, meaning ammunition for the caliber will likely continue to be produced for the foreseeable future, though perhaps at a reduced scale compared to the 9mm.
What Does This Mean for Shooters?
- Existing .40 S&W Owners: Ammunition will likely continue to be available, though perhaps at a slightly higher price point and possibly in a reduced variety of options.
- New Buyers: It's becoming increasingly difficult to find new .40 S&W firearms. The focus of most manufacturers has shifted to the 9mm, leaving fewer options for those looking to purchase a .40 S&W.
Conclusion: A Gradual Decline, Not an Immediate Demise
The .40 S&W is not being officially "phased out" by manufacturers. However, its decreasing popularity, driven by improvements in the 9mm and other factors, points toward a gradual decline. While the cartridge may not vanish entirely, it's clear that its days of widespread dominance are likely over. The 9mm's superior attributes regarding cost, capacity, and shootability in modern designs have made it the dominant cartridge of choice for both law enforcement and civilian markets.