I really do NOT understand the scorn for the 40 caliber. A 180 grain bullet traveling at 1050 fps. is not "weak". IMO it's a superb compromize between capacity, recoil, bullet weight, and power. Fact is I like it so much that I now have 4 handguns that can fire the 40 caliber.

However my latest acquisition is a S&W 610 with a 6 1/2 inch barrel that will also accomidate the 10mm load for hunting. I'll be mainly using it for the 40 simply because the cheapest 10mm I have found locally are handloads for 28 dollars per box of 50. That's about double the cost of the Federal at Walmart and I won't use anyones handloads until I am doing it for myself. BTW, moonclips are a real treat to shoot with. It take about 20 minutes to de-clip and load up 16 of them and doing this allows me to do nothing but shoot at the range and I can bring every single case home without chasing any of them.

I never wanted one or saw the need for the .40, but I bought a P226R in .40 because it was a good deal. Now that I have ±750 rounds for it, I guess I'll keep it.

The 40S&W is just another caliber option, another choice. Some like it, some don't-that is up to you and the reason there are other calibers. I like the 40 very much. The 9mm is adequate for defense and the 45 is not the "end all" caliber. The 40 combines the best of both with decent capacity in many pistol platforms. Bill

One positive I like, but have not had the opportunity to try, is that the .40 (in several guns) is convertible with the .357 Sig. I am liking what I am hearing about the Sig caliber and will be actively seeking to purchase companion barrels here soon for my .40's

It is a fine chambering but I have 9's and .45 so I have no need for the in-between .40 S&W.

Well, as my first gun I went with the only caliber that had ammunition readily available, the .40

That said, I just love shooting, regardless of caliber.

Let me ask you all a question...

If the only thing left to shoot was a .40S&W, would you quit shooting?

Nothing wrong with the round. I think it is the best available LE round. It bridges the gap between 9mm and 45 ACP.

I have no 40s at present. Have owned a Glock 22 and S&W 4006.