If you want to buy a new gun, you must consider many different factors to ensure the one you select is right for your needs. From the availability of ammunition for the weapon to testing it before completing the purchase, this is a careful process. This is also more challenging when you are trying to decide between two guns that use similar calibers, such as .40 Smith & Wesson® (S&W) and 10 mm. Below is more information about both options to help you decide.

A Brief History

The production of these two guns came about almost coincidentally. In 1986 in Miami, bank robbers wearing body armor were involved in a shootout with FBI agents, and their standard pistols could not penetrate the equipment. As a result, the FBI decided to adopt a 10 mm weapon produced by S&W. However, this did not last long because agents criticized the heavy recoil. Instead, S&W began working with Winchester to shorten the casing of 10 mm rounds, creating a .40 S&W. This round offered similar striking power with lower recoil.

10 mm

The 10 mm was created by Colonel Jeff Cooper, who imagined a cartridge that was faster than the .45 Automatic Colt Pistol (ACP) and had more power than 9 mm. With a velocity of about 1200 feet per second (fps), which is 1.4 times the speed of a Boeing airplane, and an energy of 550 ft-lb of energy, it makes for an efficient round for hunting and self defense. This model has a large pistol primer and frame, so it is not offered in a subcompact model. However, if you have larger hands, pistols chambered in 10 mm have incredible versatility.

.40 S&W

If you prefer a gun that is more compact and has less recoil, the .40 S&W may be the better option. This provides more power than a standard 9 mm because it travels much faster. Additionally, you can find weapons chambered in this round in all classes of pistols, including full-size, compact, and subcompact. This means there is a .40 S&W model that can fit any size of hand or need. Plus, this ammunition is usually cheaper than 10 mm because it is more popular.

If you need help finding a new firearm to practice with or carry concealed, contact Shooter's Firearms & Indoor Range in Columbia, IL. Aside from being a retail shop, they also have an extensive full-service indoor shooting range, where you can practice with your guns safely. They even host shooting competitions for all skill levels. Call (618) 281-6393 to speak with a team member, and visit them online for more information about their services.