Anyone here still buy/prefer .40 cal service autos?

[kpp80202]

In the last 18 months or so (coming after some law enforcement agencies switched to 9mm from .40), there seems to have been a relative glut of .40 caliber service autos coming on the local used market, with 9mm autos being much less common and often having a price premium. For example, I've seen a $100 difference in similar condition HK USPs between the two calibers. Using WWB range ammo as a guide, it would take about 2,500 rounds to make up the difference in price.

Is anyone here buying .40s when you'd prefer the 9mm?

[kidicarus13]

For example, I've seen a $100 difference in similar condition HK USPs between the two calibers. Using WWB range ammo as a guide, it would take about 2,500 rounds to make up the difference in price.


I think your math is off.

[kpp80202]

I think your math is off.

WWB 200 pack 9mm is $48 ($0.24 a round) and .40 is $56 ($0.28 a round) at Wal-Mart. So, a $0.04 a round difference times 2,500 rounds is $100. I didn't include tax, but the number should be close.

[kidicarus13]

Thought you were talking about the amount of 9mm you could buy for the $100 difference in price.

I personally like .40 ammo and find myself buying it from others who "are getting out of .40" and liquidating their stash to buy 9.

[kpp80202]

Ahh, got it. I was initially thinking about the price difference the way you were, but then when I analyzed it on a per-round basis, I realized I could shoot a $100 cheaper .40 for a couple years before I would finally break even on the purchase price difference with the 9. (I rotate what I shoot, so a particular gun doesn't get used much in a given year.)

[bobbyfairbanks]

No pistol kills well. Good JHP 9mm does just as good as 40 but with faster split times and more capacity in production guns. Buy 40 glocks and shoot 9 out of them. Fatter barrels lighter slides one gun two calibers. It's a good deal

[sportbikeco]

I have a few 40's and like shooting them.

Larger diameter projectile and larger brass reload easier.
Heavy bullets and fast powder = light shooting reliable ammo
A slow moving flat point lead 180 knocks over bowling pins very well
Lots of cheap pistols out there but the M&P police trades with night sights and 3 mags for $299 is a steal.

[kpp80202]

I didn't used to be a fan of .40s, but I have a couple now that I shoot really well. You are right about the easier reloading.

Last spring I was thinking about tricking out a used M&P. Now that you brought it up, maybe that'll be my winter project...