.40 S&W vs .44 Magnum
Part of our full caliber comparison chart — energy, drop and recoil for every handgun caliber side by side.
The .40 S&W vs .44 Magnum comparison matches a modern service cartridge against the most powerful mainstream revolver round. The .44 Magnum (240gr JHP at 1350 fps) delivers 806 ft-lbs at 50 yards, nearly doubling the .40 S&W's (165gr JHP at 1175 fps) 413 ft-lbs. The .40 S&W achieves optimal FBI penetration at 14.9-15.3 inches while the magnum exceeds requirements at 21.7-22.2 inches. Recoil differs dramatically: the .40 S&W produces 5.94 ft-lbs versus the magnum's punishing 22.01 ft-lbs. The .40 S&W offers semi-auto capacity for defensive use while the .44 Magnum excels for hunting and bear country. Performance varies with ammunition selection and firearm platform.
Ammunition Parameters
.40 S&W Parameters (Self-Defense Load)
.44 Magnum Parameters (Self-Defense Load)
.40 S&W vs .44 Magnum Ballistics Chart
Comparing bullet drop at various ranges between .40 S&W and .44 Magnum.
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.40 S&W vs .44 Magnum Energy Comparison
Comparing the muzzle energy and energy retention at various distances between .40 S&W and .44 Magnum.
.40 S&W vs .44 Magnum Bullet Penetration
Comparison of estimated penetration depth in 10% ballistic gel between .40 S&W and .44 Magnum at self-defense distances.
Self-Defense Ammunition Penetration
Notes:
- FBI standard for optimal penetration is 12-18 inches in 10% ballistics gel
- These penetration figures come from a model of sectional density, velocity and expansion, not from gel tests. Use them to compare the two calibers, not as a measured result.
- Actual results may vary depending on clothing barriers and other factors
.40 S&W vs .44 Magnum Recoil
Comparing recoil energy and impulse between .40 S&W and .44 Magnum.
.40 S&W Recoil (Self-Defense Load)
.44 Magnum Recoil (Self-Defense Load)
Notes:
- Recoil calculations based on bullet weight, velocity, powder charge, and firearm weight
- Recoil energy indicates the felt force when firing the weapon
- Recoil impulse represents momentum transfer during firing
- Actual felt recoil can vary based on grip, stance, and firearm design
.40 S&W vs .44 Magnum Velocity
Velocity decay from muzzle to 50 yards for .40 S&W and .44 Magnum.
.40 S&W vs .44 Magnum Average Cost
Comparing cost per round and training affordability between .40 S&W and .44 Magnum.