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40 Cal (S&W) Ammo For Sale

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The .40 Smith & Wesson is a leading cartridge among law enforcement organizations in America and is also popular among civilians for personal protection and sport shooting. To shop 40 S&W ammo in bulk, check out our bulk 40 S&W ammo page. Learn More
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  1. Blazer 40 cal Ammo - 1000 Rounds of 180 Grain FMJ Ammunition

    $364.99

    $354.99

    60 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type FMJ
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 985 FPS
    • 1000 Rounds
    • 35.5¢ per round
    • Made by Blazer Brass
  2. PMC 40 cal Ammo - 1000 Rounds of 165 Grain FMJ-FN Ammunition

    $360.00

    80 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type FMJ
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 989 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 358 ft lbs
    • 1000 Rounds
    • 36.0¢ per round
    • Made by PMC
  3. PMC 40 cal Ammo - 1000 Rounds of 180 Grain FMJ-FN Ammunition

    $359.99

    92 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type FMJ
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 985 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 388 ft lbs
    • 1000 Rounds
    • 36¢ per round
    • Made by PMC
  4. Magtech 40 cal Ammo - 1000 Rounds of 180 Grain FMJ Ammunition

    $364.99

    54 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type FMJ
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 990 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 392 ft lbs
    • 1000 Rounds
    • 36.5¢ per round
    • Made by Magtech
  5. Sellier and Bellot 40 cal Ammo - 1000 Rounds of 180 Grain FMJ Ammunition

    $364.99

    79 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type FMJ
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 968 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 375 ft lbs
  6. 40 S&W - 180 gr FMJ - Federal American Eagle - 1000 Rounds

    $369.99

    60 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type FMJ
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1000 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 400 ft lbs
    • 1000 Rounds
    • 37¢ per round
    • Made by Federal
  7. Speer 40 cal Ammo - 1000 Rounds of 180 Grain TMJ Ammunition

    $379.99

    65 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type TMJ
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1000 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 400 ft lbs
    • 1000 Rounds
    • 38¢ per round
    • Made by Speer
  8. Speer 40 cal Ammo - 1000 Rounds of 180 Grain TMJ Ammunition

    $379.99

    25 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type TMJ
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1000 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 400 ft lbs
    • 1000 Rounds
    • 38¢ per round
    • Made by Speer
  9. Blazer 40 cal Ammo - 1000 Rounds of 165 Grain FMJ Ammunition

    $384.99

    32 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type FMJ
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1050 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 404 ft lbs
    • 1000 Rounds
    • 38.5¢ per round
    • Made by Blazer Brass
  10. Federal 40 cal Ammo - 1000 Rounds of 165 Grain FMJ Ammunition

    $394.99

    52 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type FMJ
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1130 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 468 ft lbs
    • 1000 Rounds
    • 39.5¢ per round
    • Made by Federal
  11. PMC 40 cal Ammo - 50 Rounds of 180 Grain FMJ-FN Ammunition

    $21.99

    70 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type FMJ
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 985 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 388 ft lbs
    • 50 Rounds
    • 44¢ per round
    • Made by PMC
  12. Blazer 40 cal Ammo - 50 Rounds of 180 Grain FMJ Ammunition

    $22.99

    40 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type FMJ
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 985 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 388 ft lbs
    • 50 Rounds
    • 46¢ per round
    • Made by Blazer Brass
  13. Sellier and Bellot 40 cal Ammo - 50 Rounds of 180 Grain FMJ Ammunition

    $22.99

    73 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type FMJ
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 968 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 375 ft lbs
  14. Fiocchi 40 S&W Ammo - 1000 Rounds of 180 Grain JHP Ammunition

    $459.99

    18 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type JHP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1000 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 399 ft lbs
    • 1000 Rounds
    • 46¢ per round
    • Made by Fiocchi
  15. Magtech 40 cal Ammo - 50 Rounds of 180 Grain FMJ Ammunition

    $23.99

    93 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type FMJ
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 990 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 392 ft lbs
    • 50 Rounds
    • 48¢ per round
    • Made by Magtech
  16. Federal 40 cal Ammo - 50 Rounds of 165 Grain FMJ Ammunition

    $24.99

    33 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type FMJ
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1130 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 468 ft lbs
    • 50 Rounds
    • 50¢ per round
    • Made by Federal
  17. PMC 40 cal Ammo - 50 Rounds of 165 Grain FMJ-FN Ammunition

    $24.99

    99 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type FMJ
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 989 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 358 ft lbs
    • 50 Rounds
    • 50.0¢ per round
    • Made by PMC
  18. Sellier & Bellot 40 S&W Ammo - 50 Rounds of 180 Grain JHP Ammunition

    $24.99

    101 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type JHP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 974 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 381 ft lbs
  19. Federal 40 cal Ammo - 50 Rounds of 180 Grain FMJ Ammunition

    $25.25

    100 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type FMJ
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1000 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 400 ft lbs
    • 50 Rounds
    • 50.5¢ per round
    • Made by Federal
  20. Remington 40 cal Ammo - 1000 Rounds of 180 Grain MC Ammunition

    $519.99

    42 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type FMJ
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 990 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 392 ft lbs
    • 1000 Rounds
    • 52.0¢ per round
    • Made by Remington
  21. Remington 40 cal Ammo - 500 Rounds of 180 Grain MC Ammunition

    $274.99

    65 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type FMJ
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 990 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 392 ft lbs
    • 500 Rounds
    • 55.0¢ per round
    • Made by Remington
  22. Fiocchi 40 cal Ammo - 50 Rounds of 180 Grain JHP Ammunition

    $28.99

    37 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type JHP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1000 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 399 ft lbs
    • 50 Rounds
    • 58¢ per round
    • Made by Fiocchi
  23. PMC 40 cal Ammo - 50 Rounds of 165 Grain JHP Ammunition

    $29.99

    101 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type JHP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1040 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 396 ft lbs
    • 50 Rounds
    • 60¢ per round
    • Made by PMC
  24. Federal Syntech Action Pistol 40 S&W Ammo - 50 Rounds of 205 Grain Total Synthetic Jacket Ammunition

    $29.99

    111 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type TSJ
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 830 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 314 ft lbs
    • 50 Rounds
    • 60.0¢ per round
    • Made by Federal
  25. Remington 40 cal Ammo - 50 Rounds of 180 Grain MC Ammunition

    $30.99

    26 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type FMJ
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 990 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 392 ft lbs
    • 50 Rounds
    • 62.0¢ per round
    • Made by Remington
  26. Sierra Outdoor Master 40 S&W Ammo - 20 Rounds of 180 Grain JHP Ammunition

    $13.99

    9 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type JHP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 985 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 388 ft lbs
    • 20 Rounds
    • 70.0¢ per round
    • Made by Sierra Bullets
  27. Federal 40 cal Ammo - 1000 Rounds of 180 Grain JHP Ammunition

    $699.99

    9 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type JHP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Nickel-Plated Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1000 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 400 ft lbs
    • 1000 Rounds
    • 70¢ per round
    • Made by Federal
  28. Sellier & Bellot XRG Defense 40 S&W Ammo - 25 Rounds of 130 Grain SCHP Ammunition

    $19.99

    36 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type SCHP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1247 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 449 ft lbs
  29. Federal Law Enforcement HST 40 S&W Ammo - 50 Rounds of 180 Grain JHP Ammunition

    $39.99

    87 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type JHP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Nickel-Plated Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1010 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 408 ft lbs
    • 50 Rounds
    • 80¢ per round
    • Made by Federal
  30. Federal 40 cal Ammo - 50 Rounds of 165 Grain HST JHP Ammunition

    $39.99

    27 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type JHP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Nickel-Plated Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1130 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 468 ft lbs
    • 50 Rounds
    • 80¢ per round
    • Made by Federal
  31. Speer 40 cal Ammo - 50 Rounds of 165 Grain JHP Ammunition

    $40.00

    76 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type JHP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Nickel-Plated Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1150 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 484 ft lbs
    • 50 Rounds
    • 80¢ per round
    • Made by Speer
  32. Federal 40 cal Ammo - 1000 Rounds of 165 Grain JHP Ammunition

    $799.99

    13 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type JHP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Nickel-Plated Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1130 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 468 ft lbs
    • 1000 Rounds
    • 80¢ per round
    • Made by Federal
  33. Speer 40 cal Ammo - 1000 Rounds of 165 Grain JHP Ammunition

    $799.99

    6 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type JHP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Nickel-Plated Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1150 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 484 ft lbs
    • 1000 Rounds
    • 80¢ per round
    • Made by Speer
  34. Speer 40 Cal Ammo - 1000 Rounds of 180 Grain JHP Ammunition

    $799.99

    2 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type JHP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Nickel-Plated Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1025 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 420 ft lbs
    • 1000 Rounds
    • 80¢ per round
    • Made by Speer
  35. Speer 40 cal Ammo - 50 Rounds of 180 Grain JHP Ammunition

    $40.50

    139 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type JHP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Nickel-Plated Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1025 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 420 ft lbs
    • 50 Rounds
    • 81¢ per round
    • Made by Speer
  36. Winchester Ranger T-Series 40 S&W Ammo - 50 Rounds of 180 Grain JHP Ammunition - LE Trade-In

    $41.99

    129 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type JHP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Nickel-Plated Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 990 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 392 ft lbs
  37. Black Hills Ammunition 40 S&W Ammo - 20 Rounds of 155 Grain JHP Ammunition

    $19.99

    144 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type JHP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1150 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 455 ft lbs
    • 20 Rounds
    • 100.0¢ to $1.00 per round
    • Made by Black Hills Ammunition
  38. Hornady American Gunner 40 S&W Ammo - 20 Rounds of 180 Grain XTP JHP Ammunition

    $19.99

    133 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type XTP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 950 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 361 ft lbs
    • 20 Rounds
    • 100.0¢ to $1.00 per round
    • Made by Hornady
  39. Black Hills Ammunition 40 S&W Ammo - 20 Rounds of 180 Grain JHP Ammunition

    $21.00

    23 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type JHP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1000 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 400 ft lbs
    • 20 Rounds
    • $1.05 per round
    • Made by Black Hills Ammunition
  40. Federal Punch 40 S&W Ammo - 20 Rounds of 165 Grain JHP Ammunition

    $21.99

    117 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type JHP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1130 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 468 ft lbs
    • 20 Rounds
    • $1.10 per round
    • Made by Federal
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History of 40 Cal (S&W) Ammo

The .40 S&W cartridge was developed with two specific goals in mind – to have more stopping power than the 9mm Parabellum, and better handling and manageability than the .45 ACP. With these goals in mind, a team comprised of technicians from Smith & Wesson and Winchester built the .40 S&W cartridge.

The final result from the Smith & Wesson/Winchester team was a rimless, 10x22mm round that housed a .40-inch (10mm) lead bullet weighing between 105 to 200 grain (gr). It’s considered a middleground ammunition, one that holds enough stopping power to be effective for home defense and concealed carry, and is still manageable to shoot and handle the recoil – even for those with smaller frames.

In its standard round, the .40 S&W casing measures .85 inch long and .424 inch at its base. It’s loaded to an average pressure of 35,000 psi, compared to the 37,500 psi of the standard 10mm cartridge.

In addition to its traditional name, the .40 S&W is also referred to as: .40 Cal, .40 Cal S&W, .40 Auto, 10x22mm, and 10mm Kurz.

Development of the .40 S&W

Smith & Wesson and Winchester introduced .40 Cal bullets in 1990, just six months after the Federal Bureau of Investigation requested the development of an ammunition with the stopping power of the .45 ACP, but with the ease of use of the 9mm.

A few years before, the FBI switched to the 10mm cartridge after determining 9mm handguns – which agents had carried for years – were no longer effective in a modern gunfight.

In 1986, eight FBI agents and two bank robbers were involved in what has become known as the Miami Shootout in which FBI agents had to rely on their .38 Special revolvers. Both criminals were killed, as were two agents. Five other agents were shot and injured. The lack of stopping power, the limited ammunition supply, and the difficulty of quickly and efficiently reloading revolvers lead the FBI to seek out an ammunition cartridge that was more effective and lethal.

They opted for the 10mm cartridge and the S&W 1076 Auto. While significantly more powerful, the 10mm soon proved itself too difficult for many agents to control when firing, mostly due to its combination of harsh recoil and large grip size.

The FBI continued its search for a cartridge with less recoil that fit in existing 9mm frames and with the amount of penetration required by its agents. In 1990, the Smith & Wesson and Winchester .40 Cal ammo met these requirements. This new round took the FBI’s standard 10mm cartridge and shortened the casing, lowered the recoil and replaced the large primer with a small primer similar to what’s seen in a 9mm.

The FBI adopted it (briefly) and the caliber was enthusiastically embraced by law enforcement communities around the country. Police forces in Canada and Australia also adopted the .40 S&W and many still use the cartridge today.

Soon, civilians followed, offering their own endorsement of the .40 caliber bullet.

What Is .40 Ammo Good For?

A strong feature of .40 caliber ammo is that it’s a middleground cartridge. Although some consider it a compromise between the .45 ACP and the 9mm, others see it as a useful round on its own.

A .40 Cal round has more muzzle energy and down-range energy than a 9mm, although the same sized pistol in 9mm may hold more rounds since the cartridge is smaller. A pistol chambered in .40 S&W holds more rounds than it could with the .45 ACP, but the muzzle energy of the .45 is considerably higher than that of .40 caliber ammunition.

For more ammo options, dont forget to check out our Remington 40 S&W Ammo and Fiocchi 40 S&W Ammo pages.

The .40 S&W strikes the right balance between muzzle energies and magazine capacity, and has been approved by exhaustive testing on the part of the FBI and many other agencies – which has resulted in the widespread adoption of the .40 S&W among the police community. It’s also worth noting that the .40 S&W has been adopted by the U.S. Coast Guard as its primary issue sidearm.

The .40 S&W As a Self-Defense Cartridge

The .40 S&W is also popular with civilians. A wide variety of options exist for bullet weight and design (if a manufacturer produces a new line of self-defense firearms, they typically offer it in .40 caliber).

Civilians appreciate the same benefits of the caliber that made it so popular with law enforcement: magazine capacity, muzzle energy, and limited recoil. With the accuracy of a 9mm, and improved manageability over the .45, it’s no wonder the .40 S&W has become popular for home defense and concealed carry – as seen in the number of pistols chambered in .40 S&W in compact and subcompact sizes.

Defensive .40 S&W ammunition is offered by several manufacturers – including Federal 40 S&W, Hornady and Magtech, just to name a few. Good quality .40 S&W jacketed hollow point (JHP) ammo may even create hydrostatic shock in a human target, causing vast damage throughout the body, not just where the bullet impacts.

Another popular self-defense option is Fiocchi 40 S&W ammo, as their Defense Dynamics line of jacketed hollow points are extremely popular with law enforcement agenices in Europe and the United States. Remington Golden Saber jacketed hollow point (JHP) ammo is also extremely popular. Check out our entire selection of Remington .40 S&W ammo in stock and ready to ship.

Popular .40 S&W Pistols

.40 S&W ammo has become so popular among law enforcement, the military, and civilians, that firearm manufacturers now make a plethora of handguns chambered for the cartridge. These pistols often feature a standard double-stack magazine and most full-sized semi-automatics chambered to .40 S&W hold around 16 rounds per magazine.

Here are seven of the most popular .40 Cal pistols:

  1. Sig Sauer P226
    Designed for the U.S. military, the Sig Sauer P226 is a full-sized semi-automatic pistol that looks like a traditional 1911. It’s used by armed forces throughout the world and comes in a range of variations, including an Elite and Legion. As a full-sized .40 S&W, most magazines hold a minimum of 15 rounds.

  2. Smith & Wesson M&P 40 M2.0
    The Smith & Wesson M&P 40 M2.0 brings a full-sized striker-fire pistol to law enforcement and military personnel across the U.S. It’s durable and comfortable, with ergonomics that allow for all-day training. The M2.0 comes with interchangeable grips and three 15-round cartridges.

  3. Beretta PX4 Compact Carry
    Falling between a full-sized pistol and a subcompact, the Beretta PX4 Compact Carry offers shooters a solid firearm that’s easy to conceal. This hammer-fired handgun features a rotary barrel system that reduces recoil, making the .40 S&W easily manageable. It holds a 12-round magazine, has a solid grip, and an ambidextrous slide stop, as well as a reversible magazine release, making it a great choice for left-handed shooters.

  4. Walther PPQ M2
    For those who favor a striker-fire pistol, the Walther PPQ M2 .40 S&W offers the quality and craftsmanship expected of a Walther firearm with an elegant and ergonomic design. This lightweight pistol weighs in at 25 ounces empty, hosts an 11-round magazine, and features a smooth, 5.6-pound trigger pull. It’s available with the standard 4.2-inch barrel or the easier-to-handle 5 inch.

  5. Glock 27
    The Glock 27 is the company’s subcompact semi-automatic pistol chambered to .40 S&W. It shoots like a Glock should shoot: accurate, smooth, and precise. If the 9-round magazine seems a little light on cartridges, swap it out for a full-sized magazine designed for the Glock 22 or Glock 23. The company also offers the pistol as a Glock 27 Gen 4, which features a customizable grip and dual recoil spring.

  6. Kahr PM40
    The Kahr PM40 offers shooters a thin profile subcompact that is perfect for pocket carry. This striker-fired semi-auto pistol measures only 5.5 inches long and less than an inch wide. The standard magazine holds 5 rounds and the Kahr PM40 comes with a longer magazine that acts as a grip extension, making the handgun 6+1.

  7. Charter Arms Pitbull
    The only revolver on the list, the Charter Arms Pitbull .40 S&W provides a 5-shot cylinder and weighs in at only 20 ounces. With a patented dual coil spring assembly in the extractor, Charter Arms solve the problem of loading and unloading rimless ammo in a wheel gun. The 2.3-inch barrel may seem like it leaves a lot to recoil, but the full-sized rubber grip makes the revolver easy to control.

.40 S&W Ballistics and Ammo Types

The .40 S&W cartridge comes in a variety of loads and bullets. Some of the most popular ammo for .40 caliber handguns include:

  • Full metal jacket (FMJ): .40 S&W FMJ bullets feature a lead bullet encased in a harder metal to help the projectile keep its shape as it travels toward its target; the FMJ is the most common target shooting round in most calibers
  • Total metal jacket (TMJ): A .40 S&W TMJ bullet is made of lead and fully covered in a harder metal, where an FMJ is exposed at the base of the bullet (inside the casing); TMJ ammo limits lead exposure to shooters and is required by some indoor ranges
  • Jacketed hollow point (JHP): JHP bullets are wrapped in a metal encasement, but leave a hollow point in the lead to help with expansion, wound size, and stopping power; .40 S&W JHP ammo is often used in self defense and duty rounds
  • Brass enclosed base (BEB): BEB bullets are completely enclosed in brass, limiting lead exposure when shooting; many of these are specially designed for enclosed shooting ranges and include a non-toxic primer
  • Complete metal jacket (CMJ): Similar to TMJ bullets, CMJ features fully encapsulated lead, limiting exposure; they also have less smoke release
  • Frangible: Often used when over-penetration is a concern, frangible bullets are made from copper powder and shatter on impact; these bullets not only protect bystanders, they also eliminate the risk of ricochet to the shooter

When it comes to ballistics, the .40 S&W holds its own and offers a full range of options. On average, the cartridge specs are as follows:

  • Height: 0.85 inches
  • Width: 0.424 inches
  • Speed: 1,074 fps
  • Energy: 423 ft•lbf
  • Bullet weight: 165 gr
  • Recoil: 0.74

.40 S&W vs. 10mm

When it comes to comparisons, the .40 S&W is most often associated with the 10mm. After all, they share the same bullet size, but they use different pistol primers. The 40 S&W has a small pistol primer, whereas the 10mm has a large pistol primer. Where the 10mm’s shell measures .992 inch in length, the .40 S&W measures .85 inch. In width, there’s only a fraction of a difference, with the larger shell measuring .425 inch and the smaller .424 inch.

Because the casing is smaller, the .40 S&W cartridge holds less powder, which equals less power. With the 10mm, the muzzle energy comes in around 546 ft•lbf, while the .40 measures at 423 ft•lbf. For recoil, the 10mm displayed .96 relative recoil (rr) and the .40 S&W, .74rr.

So what does all this mean?

It means that both cartridges offer a significant impact and punch, the 10mm a little more so than the .40 S&W. It means that for self defense and concealed carry, if a shooter can handle the recoil, either ammo works sufficiently.

If a shooter isn’t sensitive to recoil and wants a handgun caliber that can stop a mountain lion or other medium- to large-sized predator, the 10mm is definitely the better option. In the same manner, if the shooter is a 120-pound woman with limited handgun experience, hand her the .40 S&W.

Regardless of its conception, the .40 S&W has proven itself to be a cartridge worth carrying. From its initial design for the FBI through its years of service with the armed forces, the .40 S&W has the necessary power, velocity, and lethal force to handle the needs of law enforcement, the military, and thousands of armed civilians. It provides protection, defense, and plenty of recreation shooting for people across the country who enjoy using it as .40 Cal practice ammo.

FAQ

What is 40 S&W ammo?

The .40 S&W cartridge was specially designed as a bridge between the 9mm and .45 ACP after a new bullet round was requested by the FBI. Created and designed by a team that included both Smith & Wesson and Winchester, the final product demonstrated more stopping power than the 9mm and more manageability than the .45 ACP. The cartridge is a rimless shell that houses a .40 inch (10mm) bullet that weighs between 105 and 200 grain (gr) and is loaded to an average pressure of 35,000 pounds per square inch (psi). It’s also referred to as .40 Cal S&W, .40 Cal, .40 Auto, 10x22mm, and 40 Kurz.

What does 40 Caliber S&W mean?

The term .40 Caliber S&W refers to the .40 S&W cartridge, which features a .40 caliber bullet. This cartridge was released in 1990 and was created by a collaboration between Smith & Wesson and Winchester after the FBI requested a handgun bullet that had more stopping power than a 9mm, but less recoil than a .45 ACP. The result was the .40 S&W, a 10mm (.40-inch) bullet housed in rimless casing that’s .85-inch long. Its most common usages include law enforcement and as a personal defense round.

What is the best .40 Caliber ammo for self defense?

The .40 S&W cartridge is popular cartridge for self defense. It has effective stopping power, as well as a limited recoil, powerful muzzle energy, and a higher magazine capacity than the .45 ACP or 10mm cartridges. Firearms chambered in .40 S&W are also easier to carry concealed than the larger self defense pistols. Self defense rounds are available from many manufacturers like Hornady, Magtech, and Federal and are often jacketed hollow point (JHP) rounds. These types of bullets have greater stopping power than a traditional full metal jacket (FMJ) and are also less likely to overpenetrate a target, a concern in many self defense situations.

What is more powerful, 9mm or 40 S&W?

The .40 S&W is a more powerful cartridge than the 9mm Parabellum. It has a larger bullet (.40 inch vs .380 inch) and when comparing the same brand and design, the .40 S&W round generally penetrates deeper and has a greater expansion, giving it more stopping power (while this is generally true, there are some situations in which the 9mm may penetrate deeper). Although the .40 S&W is more powerful, it does have more recoil (although not as much as the .45 ACP) and is often described as "snappy."

Why does 40 S&W have a flat nose?

The flat nose of the .40 S&W cartridge is technically called a meplat and is designed to impact the bullet’s ballistics and wounding capability. Much like jacketed hollow points (JHP), the meplat tip allows the bullet to expand more on impact, creating greater internal damage and reducing the risk of overpenetration. Because the .40 S&W was specifically created to be used by the FBI and law enforcement, it was designed with as much stopping power as possible and its cartridges almost always feature the flat tip.

Is there a difference between 40 Cal and 40 S&W?

No, .40 Cal and .40 S&W refer to the same cartridge. The term .40 Cal refers to a .40 caliber bullet while the term .40 S&W refers to .40 Smith & Wesson, the round’s technical name.

What is the preferred grain for 40 Cal ammo?

Like many ammunitions, the .40 S&W comes in a variety of weights, ranging from 105 to 200 grain (gr). While the standard weight for the round is 180 gr, many shooters opt for 165 gr as it has less recoil and tends to be easier to handle.

40 Cal (S&W) Ballistics: Chart of Average 40 Cal (S&W) Ballistics

Note: This information comes from the manufacturer and is for informational purposes only. The actual ballistics obtained with your firearm can vary considerably from the advertised ballistics. Also, ballistics can vary from lot to lot with the same brand and type load.

40 Cal (S&W) Bullet WEIGHT Muzzle VELOCITY (fps) Muzzle ENERGY (ft. lbs.) Mid-Range TRAJECTORY (in.) Barrel Length (in.)
  Muzzle 50 yds. 100 yds. Muzzle 50 yds. 100 yds. 50 yds. 100 yds.  
120 Grain 1150 n/a n/a 352 n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a
125 Grain 1265 1102 998 444 337 276 -3 n/a 4"
135 Grain 1140 1070 n/a 390 345 n/a 0.9 n/a 4"
135 Grain Guard Dog 1200 1040 940 430 325 265 n/a n/a 4"
155 Grain 1140 1026 958 447 362 309 0.9 4.1 4"
155 Grain JHP 1175 n/a n/a 475 n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a
165 Grain FMJ 1050 n/a n/a 404 n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a
165 Grain JHP 1100 n/a n/a 443 n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a
165 Grain 1150 n/a n/a 485 n/a n/a n/a n/a 4"
175 Grain 1010 948 899 396 350 314 n/a n/a 4"
180 Grain FMJ 985 936 893 388 350 319 1.4 5 4"
180 Grain 1000 943 896 400 355 321 4.52 n/a 4"
180 Grain 1015 960 914 412 368 334 1.3 4.5 4"
155 Grain +P 1300 n/a n/a 582 n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a
180 Grain +P 1100 n/a n/a 484 n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a
Molly Carter
Written by
Molly Carter

Customer Reviews

  • Mando said:

    Es exelente lo recomiendo

  • Keith said:

    Good Ammo

  • Rick M said:

    Performed flawlessly on my Kahr CM40, Glock 23, and Berreta Cx4. The Kahr is finicky but no problems, plus it burns as clean as the higher end name brand ammo. This is my range ammo from now on. I'm not that accurate myself, so I couldn't tell you about the accuracy.

  • Steve said:

    Went to the range and shot over 250 rounds from my Walther PPQ40. Not a single jam or misfire. Will definitely buy more!

  • Maple junkie said:

    See above.

  • knox86 said:

    I got 500 rounds about 6 months ago and so far haven't had a single jam or malfunction at the range out of my XDm. could be a little cleaner but i've worse out of new non reman ammo so not much to complain about there. I would shoot this over any blazer/tula any day.

  • emt59 said:

    You came through with ammo on hand when I was having trouble finding it. The ammo was competitively priced along all others.

  • SteveGun357 said:

    Only one had a damged jacket. I didnt even load it in the magazine. The other 999 have fired perfectly. That is a 99.9% excellence record with me. Good deal. Could not believe how quickly you shipped.

  • MP 272 said:

    Ordered the 1000 rounds - haven't shot any yet. It is clean and well made - great service! I have confidence enough to use it as personal carry! Thanks AmmoNet Dave - Sarasota

  • gasman said:

    A little concerned about reloads, however my concerns soon vanished as the ammo performed flawlessly.

  • Vorbdad said:

    Even though this ammo was reloads, we experienced maybe only two jams out of 500 or so rounds shot so far. My brother and I are very happy with our results. Will definitely buy some more.

  • Steve said:

    I was impressed with the service from Ammo.com as well as the timeframe of delivery. The 40 cal MBI FMJ 180 gr. ammo looked good, fired flawlessly, and appears to be fairly clean doing it. I've only fired approximately 30 rds. through my Glock 23 gen 4 so far, but am satisfied with no jamming or ejection problems...would definitely consider in the future.

  • kwaddell said:

    I needed decent target range rounds for my Glock 22. Even though these are reloads not a single round jammed. All of the rounds fired cleanly. We must have gone through 100 - 200 rounds at the range. Good price. Good rounds. Will definitely purchase again.

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  • Flyman said:

    I have only fired about 35 rounds of this ammo so far, but it has performed just as well as some reloads I have. I fired it through a Browning HP, no misfires and accuracy was good.

  • Scott said:

    Bought 500 rounds and have gone through approx. 200 and haven't had any issues. The one thing that bothered me slightly was 1 out of every 20 or so rounds was steel cased. It's not enough for me to knock it down a point in the review but it was advertised as "Brass" and it wasn't all brass.

  • Jas said:

    Fired all 100 the first time out with 100% success. I didn't notice any difference from shot to shot like in some reloads. Every ejection was smooth and never had a hangup which is most important.

  • Top Shot said:

    I went to the range and pumped 100 rounds out and no problems at all. Great value...

  • The Man said:

    pumped 400 rounds through my hand gun with no problems. It was a good deal.

  • The Patriot said:

    Used 200 rounds at the range without any problems, Great value.

  • The Big Man said:

    Great value for everyday range shooting. No problems what so ever with every single round.

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  • Frank said:

    The pricing and delivery was outstanding. High quality ammo at the best price. Have told my friends and they are going to get their ammo from Ammo.com

  • Nick said:

    3000 rounds with my friends and no problems.

  • Alan said:

    I've ordered this ammo twice now. 1000 rounds each time. First 1000 went through my glock 23 without any failures of any kind. I'm onto the second 1000 now and anticipate the same flawless performance. Service is excellent. Shipping was very fast. Value is great.

  • Dean said:

    Top of the line on all categories !!!

  • Charles said:

    I'm happy with the prices and delivery times; My only complaint is i would rather the products come in unmarked boxes, since I am in the process of stockpiling ammo against the future laws of our state., I would rather no one knows what I'm purchasing, and having delivered.

  • Paul said:

    Prompt service on my order and the ammo performed as expected. Great savings buy from ammo.com as opposed to retail.

  • Jddogmaster6522 said:

    Love tul ammo. Performs great. Great price. Only thing is steel casing. Cant beat it for the price.

  • ALL ROCK said:

    IS A GOOD AMMO I WENT INTO 150 ROUNDs EACH WITH MY GLOCK 23 GEN 4 .40 WITH NO PROBLEM AND I USE MY BERETTA 96 A1 WITH ANOTHER 150 WITH THE SAME AMMO, GOOD STUFF.

  • Shooter 85262 said:

    Jammed in both Glock 23 and S&W M&P. Failed to eject. First time this has happened in years.

  • Nikonsal said:

    Received ammo in 2 days. Shot 400 rounds first day with no issues what so ever. Have shot a total 750 rounds so far with zero problems with ammo. Great value.

  • Ed said:

    I was very surprised at the speed of delivery, received my ammo 2 days after placing the order. Went to the range week later and put 200 rounds down range. No miss fires, jambs or fly always. Great service, great ammo.

  • Mac said:

    I have shot this brand of ammo before, it has always performed well in my semi-auto without jaming, and is very accurate in my particular weapon.

  • Lia_npc said:

    Appreciate fast turn of customer order being shipped to me, thanks much in this trying time of our great country

  • randy said:

    like this for ammo

  • BMan said:

    Went through 150 rounds of this to try it out. No misfires or jams, accurate, and no ricochets that I could tell

  • Steve said:

    Great ammo for price. Was able to hold tight pattern. Will be purchasing more.

  • JCas said:

    Did not have any problems with Blazer Brass ammo. The ammo's quality is good. First time I have tried them and I am pleased I tried them. Would not hesitate to purchase again..

  • WILLIARD25 said:

    TOO EXPENSIVE FOR PLINKING , BUT ITS A HARD HITTING ROUND . BODY SLAMMED A LARGE WHITETAIL DEER// GOOOD LOAD

  • joker said:

    Very happy with my new ammo.

  • Kushlover said:

    This round almost has to much powder. Looking at a spent cartridge the primer firing pin mark is almost pushed back out.

  • Adam said:

    I fired these rounds using my mp 40. I will definitely use these again.

  • Hawk said:

    Great ammo I think it is one of the best

  • scot said:

    ive put 1000 rounds thru my gun, I have yet to have any jams or misfires. if you want a good cheap round for target practice, this is the round for you.

  • springfield emp said:

    just what i ordered, no problems, speedy delivery, easy site to use & great customer sevice.

  • Donnie said:

    I am a firm believer in Blazer Brass 40 S&W. I've never experienced a jam thru my Glock 23 with this ammo and it is a very clean shooting bullet. Plus excellent service as always from Ammo.Com. Ordered on Monday, entire order here on Tuesday!!!! Thank You

  • Ross said:

    I've used this ammo for the last few months. I've put over 1000 rounds down range and haven't had any issues. Perfect for the range.

  • Mike said:

    Top shelf ammo for the price. 125 rounds without a hiccup. Might want to consider a lighter round in a compact...kicked too much for my wife in my sr40c (usp handled it like a champ) but I wouldn't hesitate to buy again. Maybe 165gr so we can both use it :)

  • Donnie said:

    Went thru 250 rounds over the last 2 weeks with no issues at all. Great ammo and very good price. Gun was a lot cleaner than I anticipated after I shot 130 rounds. Would recommend this ammo to anyone.

  • Lou said:

    Good ammo for the price

  • Davedee said:

    I use CCI as my preferred ammo. Have a fussy SIG 22 semi-auto that can only use CCI products. I have no issues with CCI in my other 40 and 9 mm cal. weapons and recommend to others. Also, I share with others when I purchase in bulk so they have an opportunity to try you out.

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  • Driggs said:

    I have been practicing with this ammunition with good results since July 2023. I have qualified on the ICE Course with the JHP version with satisfactory results.

  • Razorback said:

    Shipped on time and arrived in good condition. Feeds well in my Taurus PT 101.

  • Walt said:

    It was easy to order and had no problems comparing products. The package was heavy but taped and secured well. It arrived in the normal amount of time and performed well at the range. Good value.

  • Gomar cools said:

    Good round and a value at the price point. Rounds ramp well in all makes of gun we use.

  • Steiny said:

    I had been hoping for prices to drop before I ran out of my existing supply but that wasn't happening. Then I ran across ammo.com and found these. I'd never had any of this brand before but I'm quite satisfied with the product and ammo.com. All my future purchases will be through ammo.com.

  • scot said:

    after about 250 rounds no problems at all, will be getting some more soon.

  • Doctor said:

    See summary. Good quality overall.

  • COACHC said:

    Great ammo. No problems what so ever after firing 200 rounds. Good price and super quick ship.

  • BC said:

    Happy with the ammo, shipping and communication was top notch! I wish the prices would come down, i realize this is not the retailers fault. Will continue to buy here!

  • BC said:

    Happy with the ammo, shipping and communication was top notch! I wish the prices would come down, i realize this is not the retailers fault. Will continue to buy here!

  • mike said:

    I have only shot about 150 rnds through the gun, and the only hiccup was a few jammings that I believe were caused by an off brand 25 rnd. capacity clip.

  • Tyler said:

    Works well enough, only had a few malfunctions in 1000 rounds shot. My big gripe is that the jackets separate from the lead core as the bullet leaves your muzzle. This does seem to be widespread on the forums that I have read. Blazer has even responded via email and acknowledged that this does happen, something related to cost savings in the manufacture process to ensure cheaper prices for the end consumer. They say there is no risk of damage to your firearm, and I have no reason not to believe that. but there is a risk if you are using Blazer ammo in live-fire training exercises, where other students might be within close proximity. some instructors have even banned the use of Blazer ammo in their training classes. So basically it is a great cheap range ammo, if you don't mind the occasional speckling of copper bits on your targets. just don't use it for live fire training exercises where you are within close proximity to other people.

  • None said:

    I've used the ammo before so I knew it was good and I felt the price was good enough to make such a purchase.........

  • None said:

    I've used the ammo before so I knew it was good and I felt the price was good enough to make such a purchase.........

  • rickygwv said:

    I have only shot 200 rnds but, no malfuctions and the accuracy is par with any other I have used. Thanks a bunch.

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  • Jersy said:

    A great product at a great price!!! The best price i have found on a name i already trust. This ammo is the best deal you will find. The performance will also be appreciated.

  • Benzo said:

    Excellent never jammed function great everytime as intended great ammo

  • Capt. Miller said:

    We use these to qualify our department so we go through hundreds of rounds. This stuff barely dirty's the gun and has not misfired or jammed yet.

  • Gene said:

    When you pull the trigger the ammo goes "bang!" What more can you ask? It burns clear, leaving gun fairly free of residues and carbon.

  • Bene said:

    Bought 4 boxes. cycled flawlessly thru my Glock. Excellent value.

  • JoelDug said:

    What is there to say... Sellier and Bellot is great ammo. What is not to like? This ammo alway fires well.

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  • Bud said:

    Greta product! A little expensive per shell, but when shells can't be purchased locally, I suppose the additional is expected. Still can't find all caliber ammo, even at ammo.com.

  • Otis said:

    value, quality and performance was as well as expected for the costs.

  • KENNY said:

    THE AMMO THAT I GOT WAS FAST AND AFFORDABLE AND WILL RECOMMEND YOUR SERVICE TO ANYONE

  • Rich said:

    Ran a box of this ammo through a Springfield XDM .40 at the range today with no problems. Nice price for when you want to send something down range other than a .22LR. I'll be buying more. Thanks Ammo.com!!

  • James said:

    Have run over 14,000 rounds(yes...that's fourteen-thousand- plus) through my Sig P229 and I believe maybe two or three were misfires. I am very satisfied with the product.

  • Tom said:

    I am a returning customer the ammo is always great and priced below others out there shipment couldn't be easier . This is a great company to do business with

  • Joe said:

    What a mess, jams, powder build up.... this ammo did everything it could to foul my weapon. I blew threw cheaper Russian AMMO in my Ruger SR40C no issues, cleaning was average. As I closed in on 80 rounds of this Remington ammo you could tell it was going to be a long afternoon, powder all over the muzzle, then the jams started and cleaning took forever! Would not recommend.

  • Steve said:

    Works good. No jams or misfires

  • Paperbanger said:

    Looking for some .40 cal you can feed your pistol with total confidence? Fill your magazines with the HST JHP from Federal! My Sig and I spent an afternoon punching holes with these, along with three other brands. We know there are some brands okay for range practice, because a misfeed or misfire doesn't matter much. But it was clear from the outset that if you carry, these are the guys you want to take with you. Never a misfeed or misfire, and accurate to a gnat's eyelash. I figure if it's my life and perhaps the lives of my loved ones on the line, I'll have enough to worry about without fighting the bad guys and my ammo problems at the same time.

  • Directus ledo said:

    The service was very prompt and the communication was very good too. Shipping and processing times were executed in a timely manner. I would recommend Ammo.com to my friends and associates.

  • Uncle Bub said:

    Gold Dots are some of the bet you can get. Got it here for a fair price and good fast shipping. Thanks!!!

  • Mark said:

    All fired all good

  • Mark said:

    Order on the 6th got them on the 8th fast shipping ammo looks great. Price was pretty good

  • Investigator Man said:

    I’ve used this Ammo as my duty Ammo as well as my full time carry Ammo for all occasions. It’s stopping power is second to none.. highly reliable and this Ammo will deliver, I have this Ammo in 9mm .40 as well as in .38 / .357. I motto is : Don’t ever buy cheap Ammo when your life depends on it!!