9mm VS .40 S&W in Subcompact Pistols - Federal Punch

[@GunSam]

Filmed December 8th 2024. I have been, and probably will continue on a trend of testing a lot of semi-auto calibers. I used to fixate on testing revolver cartridges in every video and I didn't want to release a video without revolver content, but as of late, it's been increasingly difficult to do this and make it interesting because the ammo choices aren't as wide. There also seems to be a trend of 9mm ammunition getting more and more powerful while ammo companies take no time to verify that their revolver cartridges are even close to being right.

[@hillbillyscholar8126]

Sad but true. But reloads for the revolver could be interesting! 😊👍❤💯

[@ca2129]

Thank you this is great!

[@texasrigged5875]

I’d like a .40 super videos

[@rickbrennan6355]

That's cool. I enjoy watching even if I have no particular interest in the match up. I always learn something I didn't know before.

[@thaknobodi]

That sucks about revolver ammo. I just bought a Model 10-5, 4" as my secondary, just for fun plinker.

[@motorosso3349]

I am liking .40 S&W more and more. Thanks for the video.

[@user-bz7fg1pk4lbo7]

Contrary to popular belief, the 40 is not Dead. As a Cop and Firearms Instructor, I saw the 40 work very well on the streets with a couple of different factory loads in Full Size Service Pistols and the Glock 27. A little more snappy in some cases, but not a problem for the experienced shooters. I was an Armorer also, and never saw any of the guns break, crack or have problems. Glock 35's, 22', 23's, 27's and Sig P229's, and Beretta 96's were all carried by Departments in my area, and all did well. The Vast Majority carried the 165 Grain Gold Dot, The Corbon 165 or the Winchester Ranger 180 gr. I also saw a few Civilian side shootings that did well.

[@cgsimons1187]

I really like your addition of the "Moment of Impact" freeze frame. 👍

[@sissydreams7494]

I appreciate all your hard work to educate and entertain! Always great videos.

[@GunSam]

Thank you

[@ScarabaeusSacer435]

As this video shows, 40 S&W doesn't get enough love from the people who should love it the most-- those carrying short-barrel CCW-type guns. 9mm and 40 S&W often don't have a lot of difference in powder charge when you look at loading manuals, and when you combine that with the fact that you need over a 3.75" barrel in the 9mm to equal the volume of a 3.25" barrel in the 40 S&W when taking the case lengths into account, 40 S&W definitely has the edge over 9mm when it comes to wringing as much energy as possible out of the propellant charge. When the FBI put out its study saying 9mm was the way to go (back to), and the thundering herd left 40 S&W for 9mm, they failed to take into account that FBI was mostly studying duty-sized barrel lengths: generally at least an inch longer than we saw here.

[@BigDrum]

I recently traded a few cheaper pistols for my first Glock, a G22 Gen 5 MOS. Several of your videos about 40 S&W were useful in my ammo choice decisions. Thanks so much for continuing to make consistently great content.

[@DanTheWolfman]

The Gen 5 40 finally has a thicker and heavier slide than all gens before won't fit same holsters fyi, I haven't shot one yet, 100% on file with Gen 5 G17 but while I don't like glocks that much, a Gen 5 23 would be nice.

[@patriotpreacher43]

100 ft/lbs of energy is enough difference to make a difference (thank, Paul) and the Underwood 155 grain, item #223 gets just over 500 ft/lbs out of a G27 with about the same barrel length. That is 357 magnum territory. I’ll keep on being a .40 fan, even if I’m called a Boomer (which I am)! Thanks for the test, and Merry Christmas, Sam!

[@GunSam]

But is it enough to make THE difference?

[@timrobinson6573]

But is that Underwood projectile able to handle that high velocity? Or will it expand too much or too rapidly and under penetrate?

[@patriotpreacher43]

@@timrobinson6573 a lot of YT tests showing it is good.

[@patriotpreacher43]

@@GunSam I believe it could. If it short circuits someone even a fraction of a second faster that could make the difference of them getting a shot off or not.

[@graywind4326]

Glock27 with hot loads is brutal. Just is.

[@keithjones668]

You do really nice work. Thanks so much, sir.

[@lukehorning3404]

Good test and like them both I carried 40 for years and just went back to 9 because they make so many great guns in 9mm

[@DinoNucci]

40 is the correct answer vs human sized questions

[@jamesmarkov9570]

The versatile 9mm is a great choice, but the 40 is a great duty round. The 9mm has standard pressure for training/range, +p for defense/duty, and +p+ for carbine use.

[@sinisterthoughts2896]

It isn't a wrong choice, that's for sure.

[@justinkayz8995]

Like the moment of impact shot. Merry Christmas.

[@joshmarkowitz1595]

From what i have read about Punch is that it is basically an HST but not designed to meet FBI intermediate barrier protocol like HST . Kind of like the way Hornady Critical Defense is to Critical Duty. Thanks for all your great work Sam and Merry Xmas.

[@metaldamnation276]

I'll take the 100 ftlbs of energy, Sam thanks for the test. Merry Christmas ⛄🎁

[@aarongreenfield9038]

I have that exact same G2 millennium in 9mm, It's been extremely reliable, and hasn't let me down once.

[@joeltowle2737]

I have to say Federal did a great job with the Punch line of ammo!

[@jfowler7604]

Thanks for another gem of testing. I own 3/9mm and 2/.40 and shoot both calibers regularly. I see many posts and comments repeating that the .40 is "more snappy" There's a difference I guess, but it's not much and not a decision maker for me either way. I currently carry a 9 in town or in backwoods situations where bears are not a consideration. I carry the .40s in normal woods situations. I think I shoot the .40s somewhat better but it's just the individual guns and doesn't reflect on the caliber.

[@Kelly-oq9nh]

Merry Christmas Sam.

[@tommccormick9290]

My old 40 Glock 22 felt more of a jolt than my gen5 Glock 17 and concluded the target would also feel the difference. I'm going back to the 40.

[@SteveShoopman]

Merry Christmas Sam!

[@gilanbarona9814]

Merry Christmas, Sam. I learn a lot from your videos. Have a great new year.

[@GunSam]

Thank you, same to you.

[@scottblackwell1215]

Love the short barrel tests. Thanks Sam!

[@sinisterthoughts2896]

Phenomenal performance with both cartridges.

[@AbstractPragmatism]

Thanks for another video Sam, and Merry Christmas!

[@889976889]

40 gets hate for no reason. People think 9 is “just as good” physics show that’s factually not true. They’re not the same nor are they similar. That’s like saying 556 and 762 are the same

[@joshuaferia8972]

I’m taking that .40 S&W all day… I feel like what the results showed here is that .40 SW is better going through barriers as well it dumped its energy in first 3 inches and still punched right through with adequate penetration while the 9mm expanded after hitting that mdf… and if the .40 would have expanded after hitting mdf it wouldn’t have peeled the pedals back as far either and would’ve had huge expansion…. But like you said both did great just going with .40… and I see HST and gold dot are greats rounds but punch rounds are great even in small caliber cartridges I’ve seen them outperform HST and gold dot in something like 22 WMR

[@BillHimmel]

Thx for keeping the .40 alive! ❤

[@GreyShooter]

Merry Christmas, Sam. 🎄 Thanks for the last year. 🫡🇺🇲

[@natjonestower3035]

I'm a punch boy, always have been. Federal's answer to Hornaday's critical duty, which I do still use in my 2" .357. More proof right here, great test.

[@traumajock]

I have 9mm-flavored Punch, but no 40. Looks like either is a good choice. Right now, I've got 135 grain Corbon in my P239. Merry Christmas to you and your family!

[@frawdulent]

Move on from 9mm. Your life may depend on it.

[@OGbqze]

10/10 once again. I agree with everything you said. 40 wins ballistics, but 9 wins logistics. 9 is way more abundant, cheaper to train with, everyone and their grandma has 9mm lying around, and in a subcompact 40 is only 10-15% "more effective". I'll stick with the 9

[@DinoNucci]

Wrong

[@ca2129]

Agreed 100%, 9mm Glock 34, 40 S&w shield.

[@marvindejaynes9981]

First of all, It looks like you have the 40 Taurus sorted out. Glad you stuck with it. Secondly, that 9 is just some nasty stuff! My first choice is HST but that punch is no slouch. Keep up the good work! Your channel is my #1 among ammo evaluation.

[@JungleJimAB9AB]

This video is well presented. It is informative and it kept my interest throughout the video. Nice work.

[@danoneill2846]

Good to see lighter weight in the 40 . 150 gr to 170 gr for 40 S&W , 170 gr and up for 10mm .

[@hartsickdisciple]

Both calibers look good, but the .40 definitely has a bit more "punch."

[@mcburcke]

Both of those look damn good! Nice test.

[@BigSlick40]

Moment of impact....we know the .40 has 100ft lbs advantage going in so I would go with the .40.

[@hoffpbass]

Merry Christmas, Gun Sam 🎉🇺🇸🎅 I woukd not say Federal Punch is an "economy" round any longer. I can find HST +Ps in both calibers cheaper. I think Punch has proven performance and that allowed them to sell in these 20 round boxes at premium pricing.

[@True-Tails]

Another great video and kudos to Federal for Punch & HST dependable defense ammo.

[@GingerAleDude]

I gravitated to 40 some decades ago and it stuck. Some tailored 9 hold their own but require special order and testing whereas most common 40 HP will have an edge over most common 9 HP.

[@guardianminifarm8005]

Both are very effective. Looks good. I would assume the 40 was as large or larger in it's largest point of expansion with the MDF test. But the 9 didn't disappoint. Thank you.

[@bobcatforever3485]

CS. Another good video and interesting ammo comparison. Thanks for sharing.

[@GunSam]

Thank you

[@georgegeorge2592]

You do a great job on your videos, keep em coming! Just subscribed

[@GunSam]

Thank you, I appreciate it!

[@KD-lb9bg]

Two excellent rounds, thanks. Aaand, a Merry Christmas 🎄 to you and yours.

[@CTCAC2000]

Merry Christmas, Sam!

[@artwebb6939]

Merry Christmas!

[@007twm]

As always thanks for the interesting video. Merry Christmas.🌲

[@ca2129]

Excellent video! In sub compact pistols I feel stopping power matters the most. Most likely to be used in very close range with less than ideal first shot placement.

[@GunSam]

Thanks

[@blacklight6200]

I wonder if the 9 performs in that exact way consistently or not. I personally liked the 40 better regardless.

[@DinoNucci]

#Wisdom

[@erichanson7293]

Other tests of the 9mm Punch that others have posted would indicate it's consistent. Some have suggested it is an HST-type design that lacks the tactical advantages of the various barrier penetration tests. You could do much worse than that Punch in either of these calibers.

[@DanTheWolfman]

I've tested from 3 different barrel lengths and all done great so ...yeah

[@PassivePortfolios]

These are good because 9 mm is cheap and readily available but subcompacts have too much recoil for some people. They are better off with the 380 ACP versions which they can shoot more accurately. Thanks for another informative video.

[@jameshood9694]

The Punch is an often overlooked round. It does well in all calibers that I have seen in videos and tested myself. The 45 acp version is slow but expands well. Wish they would stick that 230 grain Punch projectile in a 45 Long Colt case.

[@larrydavis9851]

I'd really like to see a comparison between Winchester's economy ammo in 9mm and .40 S&W, specifically the 115 grain 9mm and 180 grain .40 S&W. They used to be what people typically referred to as "Winchester White Box," but recently, Winchester changed their economy JHP line to black boxes and left the FMJ target ammo in white boxes, (I guess to draw a more visual distinction between the two). I know you've tested the 147 grain Winchester white box some time back, and that would be maybe a more fair weight in 9mm to compare against the heavier 180 grain variant of the .40 S&W, but since we already have a pretty good idea of what the 147 grain can do, I think the 115 is a better choice. Also, I've seen several other channels over the years like Paul Harrell and Shootingthebull410 test the 115 grain 9mm in ordinance gel and the now famous "meat target" and gotten some pretty impressive results, especially for what the round is. Just a thought. Great Punch bullet test by the way! I love this content.

[@InTheYear]

Great punch comparison. 🇺🇸👍🇺🇸💪🇺🇸 🎄Merry Christmas 🎄 everyone 🎄

[@theoriginalOSOK]

I just got a G3C in 40 S&W. Only one range trip so far - mags were super stiff and very hard to load the last 10th round in each. Also did have a couple of FTF s out of 50 rounds but it did that very early and then none after that. My go-to carry ammo is Fed HST 180 grain. I think I'll stick with that for this new gun. My other carry 40 is a Glock 23. Thanks for a great review! Punch is good stuff and this test is about as worst case you will get for the ammo and it did good.

[@natjonestower3035]

That's where a taurus is cheap to purchase. They don't fit or pre-wear anything, that's your job. Save 200 bucks on a pistol to spend 200 bucks making it run. Not dumping on taurus here, i own a couple myself.

[@theoriginalOSOK]

@@natjonestower3035 My G3C 9mm ran perfectly right from the get-go. Same with my G3. Ditto for my 605 and Tracker 44. This is the first one that seems to need some break-in. They can be hit or miss for quality of course but I've had really good experience with my Taurus guns.

[@DEAMcN-t1f]

That's not true at all. I've owned several Taurus pistols and have two now and they have never been anything but reliable straight from the start. I trust those pistols just as much as I do my Glocks.

[@kerino1]

Definitely appreciate the test!!

[@denizgokeri2075]

Great video, I was just thinking today over the difference of 9mm and 40 cal. in sub compact pistols. Merry christmas ❤

[@GunSam]

Merry Christmas

[@nathanlambshead4778]

Thanks for the vid. As always. I believe in Federal when it comes to bullet construction. Their affiliate companies like Speer also. I have 3 boxes of those same Punch rounds (9x19) that I picked up just to increase my defense round stash. I keep 124 grn +p in either HST or Gold Dot for ccw in my CZ 75 Compact (Canik clone). But mad glad to see the standard pressure Punch perform well. Am curious about your opinion on the Taurus G2Cs.

[@-CHeWy-]

I think punch is probably the best economy round on the market, but then again it is more pricey than typical economy stuff.

[@allthingsconsidered3211]

punch is great from short barrels and straight line deep penetration. even in 22s

[@texasbradley]

Just imagine if half the 9mm manufacturering and R&D budgets went into the 40 S&W, we could have some really cutting edge 40 pistols. It's really underrated and the FBI gave it a bad name, because FBI...

[@Yetified_Mayhem]

Merry Christmas everyone!

[@letsdothis9063]

Love your stuff! Im a 9mm guy, but everyone is dumping their .40s. im poor, so i will probably pick one up. I know that ammo will be more expensive and less abundant for the .40s, but as long as i get proficient with the .40, i will be happy. I have other things to shoot cheaper. My dad has a Glock in .40 call, and i love it.

[@Paladin1873]

Just in time for Christmas.

[@Biomass1]

I normally carry 40 in a full size, M&P40. Carried a Kahr in 40 for over a decade but wanted more capacity. Don't carry my G27 much but do carry a G26 once in awhile. HSTs, Gold Dot or Crit Duty mostly and prefer heavy for caliber. If i can't get speed I want mass.

[@Grizzlyman420]

My glock 22 never leaves my side! I’ve never worried about “over penetration”

[@jackbauer9077]

Like the.40, I’m carrying .40s&w M&p compact right now with federal tactical bonded 165 grain. Also have a mag of critical duty. But normally I’ll carry HST in .40 but got a deal on the bonded ammo it’s great/if not better that hst. This ammo is cool but hate that the nickel case is gone and stuck with just brass for money I’d just buy HST box of 50 LEO ammo online or good local shop

[@araneaetvelivolum1086]

Very interesting test, again. 40SW is very intriguing but when I look at the big picture it is as you said, the probability of landing a threat stopping shot is IMHO at least for me higher with 9mm than 40SW. I have an Extar EP9 incoming. This ammo will certainly be a good choice for it. I'm planning on getting an Obsidian can so 147 tests in 9mm are very much welcome *hinthint*😂 Thanks for sharing, much appreciated as usual. 🙏💯👍

[@dwheeler016]

Nice test.

[@mikemullen1413]

Merry Christmas! Jesus came as a baby the first time. He is coming back soon as a warrior. Better get ready.

[@jimchambers7548]

Both rounds did what they were supposed to, so both are fine carry rounds.

[@graywind4326]

Federal Punch is good stuff. Wonder the difference with HST ? Seems to be same bullet

[@hillbillyscholar8126]

Merry Christmas all!🎄🎇🎀❤

[@wishniwasfishn813]

Merry Christmas to you! 😊

[@Kelly-oq9nh]

Merry Christmas Hillbilly

[@anderss6818]

In the video, it apears that the muzzels of your guns are about three feet from the gel. Is that what they are?

[@twitterjackedmitchell8096]

Merry Christmas 🎄Ever think of going .400 Corbon testing & comparison?

[@ZFlyingVLover]

imho. Buy the xDM 3.8 10mm and load it with 40 s&w for street and 10mm for hiking. No it won't blow up. I"ve shot 40 out of my 10mm over 1000 rounds worth. Just make sure you clean your barrel regularly after shooting 40. Btw 40 s&w is not for beginners as it is very snappy BUT the XDM 3.8 OSP handles that snappiness very well.

[@jonnyboat2]

What are the model numbers of these pistols?

[@paulstoyek381]

I have some MAGTECH 9H RANGE/TRAINING 9MM LUGER +P+ 115 GR JACKET HOLLOW POINTS that are a wrist snapping fire ball out of a 4.25" barrel..Would you be interested in trying out..I have a few boxes..

[@DanTheWolfman]

How did you get that are they old...or are you in south America...if they are called Guardian Gold that would be cool for Sam to test I don't think they can be found anymore..but Guardian Gold did good Lucky Gunner in 115 though clear synthetic

[@chrisgabbert658]

👍😊

[@xforce708]

It seems the bigger the diameter you just need a little more speed to open them up. I was hoping the 40 was going to have a little more stank on it.

[@GunSam]

This .40 S&W is actually the most powerful I have tested. Most .40 S&W from this pistol is like 350-380 ft lbs energy.

[@macriggland6526]

Good ammo.

[@kc0lif]

i pick 40s&w. been awhile since jug or not😊.

[@DanTheWolfman]

my first few tests were Sams OG meat and bone and jugs style...

[@murrayjimm]

Really do like revolvers though.

[@johnnymccann5607]

I been thinking about Taurus g2c in 40 sw. I've ought 2 g2c in 9mm and love them and I reload so very little factory ammunition shot in them .everything from different 110 gr 357 rem jshp to 135gr gt bullets lhp works flawlessly and accurately all my Taurus and Taurus/ rossi pistols and revolvers works flawlessly and accurately so far.same as my more expensive brands. but as.i said about all my ammunition I reload . a friend gave me 1861 40sw cases the outher day all I need is pistol and bullets. papa😊

[@GunSam]

When I got this .40 S&W G2C it was nowhere as reliable as the 9mm version I had. Now after being sent back in, it's been totally reliable with one of the two magazines.

[@jasondeering8841]

How about best 1911 caliber. 45acp 9mm or 38 super!

[@adamsaylor7427]

We all know it’s.45 acp already though 😂

[@Kelly-oq9nh]

3 expensive guns…. But I would enjoy that as well Jason.

[@geofftimm2291]

Needs a 45 ACP too. Geoff Who knows .452 does not shrink.

[@Master-AGN]

🎄

[@finalcountdown7658]

I'm going 180gr .40 s&w in both

[@exothermal.sprocket]

9mm struggles outside +p and +p+. Just finicky and borderline. Doesn't seem like .40 S&W struggles in the vast majority of what you test.

[@RoadTraveler]

Bump

[@l.a.3887]

👍👍🇺🇸👌

[@RoadTraveler]

Algorithm

[@searlock93219321]

Thanks for the test. I love the new tracks in the fresh snow. I'm a 9mm guy preferring the recoil in the 9 over the 40. I have the diamondback DB9 gen4 For EDC. I carry the 124 HST +P. I like the punch ammo here in your test. Merry Christmas and I"m hoping for you a great New Year.

[@Gieszkanne]

I think the deformation of the 9mm through the mdf would do the most damage in flesh.

[@shootermcgavin4090]

I detest extra recoil, especially if im not getting a whole lot for it. I'll take the 9mm for defense any day for follow up shots alone, but then again I'm also comfortable with .32 acp for defense. I had a 10mm 1911 (ria) that was a dream to shoot, however, and for getting THAT extra recoil, 10mm is worth it. I usually love in-between calibers, but I just don't like .40 s&w.

[@robertnelson5660]

Nice test