A handgun cartridge that is very
popular for self-defense and is increasingly being used in
police service pistols. Smith and Wesson developed the .40 S&W round off of the 10mm round in order to fill a large gap in stopping power between the 9mm and a .
45 ACP. Unlike other rounds, .40 S&W bullets feature a
flat tip as opposed to a smooth conical tip as seen in a 9mm. The bullets were designed this way so more surface contact will be made with the bullet's target. The .40 travels at very high velocities, giving the shooter quite a bit of recoil when the
gun is fired. However, this additional velocity makes the bullet ideal for shooting through light cover such as
car doors or windshields.
Data compiled from police shooting incidents put the .40 S&W at a
96% chance of stopping an attacker with one
shot, proving it's value as a formidable defense cartridge. Cheaper than .45 ACP rounds, yet just as effective in getting the job done, the .40 S&W has seen great commercial success.