.40 S&W vs .45 ACP
Part of our full caliber comparison chart — energy, drop and recoil for every handgun caliber side by side.
Comparing .40 S&W vs .45 ACP reveals distinct differences between these popular defensive calibers despite their similar applications. The .40 S&W (165gr JHP at 1175 fps) maintains a significant energy advantage, delivering 413 ft-lbs at 50 yards compared to the .45 ACP's (230gr JHP at 850 fps) 343 ft-lbs. The penetration characteristics favor the .40 S&W, which reaches 14.9-15.3 inches, placing it squarely within FBI optimal standards, while the .45 ACP achieves 12.2-12.3 inches at the lower threshold of recommended penetration. Recoil characteristics are remarkably similar, with the .40 S&W generating 5.94 ft-lbs of recoil energy compared to the .45 ACP's 6.06 ft-lbs. The two cost about the same per round; the price tables below show the current figures. Remember that performance varies considerably with different ammunition selections and firearm platforms, so these figures represent typical defensive loadings rather than definitive performance benchmarks.
Ammunition Parameters
.40 S&W Parameters (Self-Defense Load)
.45 ACP Parameters (Self-Defense Load)
.40 S&W vs .45 ACP Ballistics Chart
Comparing bullet drop at various ranges between .40 S&W and .45 ACP.
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.40 S&W vs .45 ACP Energy Comparison
Comparing the muzzle energy and energy retention at various distances between .40 S&W and .45 ACP.
.40 S&W vs .45 ACP Bullet Penetration
Comparison of estimated penetration depth in 10% ballistic gel between .40 S&W and .45 ACP 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 .45 ACP Recoil
Comparing recoil energy and impulse between .40 S&W and .45 ACP.
.40 S&W Recoil (Self-Defense Load)
.45 ACP 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 .45 ACP Velocity
Velocity decay from muzzle to 50 yards for .40 S&W and .45 ACP.
.40 S&W vs .45 ACP Average Cost
Comparing cost per round and training affordability between .40 S&W and .45 ACP.
Cheapest .40 S&W Deals
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