Choosing the right handgun caliber is one of the most important decisions for firearm enthusiasts, whether for self-defense, concealed carry, competition shooting, or home defense. Among the most popular calibers, .38 Special, .40 S&W, and 9mm each have unique strengths and weaknesses.
In this guide, we’ll compare these three handgun calibers in terms of stopping power, recoil, magazine capacity, cost, and best use cases—helping you determine which one is right for your needs.
A Quick Overview of .38 Special, .40 S&W, and 9mm
.38 Special: A Classic Revolver Cartridge
Pros:
- Low recoil – Easy to control, even for beginners.
- Proven self-defense performance – Used by law enforcement for decades.
- Reliable revolver platform – Simple and dependable function.
- Versatile ammo options – From low-recoil target loads to high-power +P defensive rounds.
Cons:
- Lower capacity – Most revolvers hold only 5-6 rounds.
- Slower reload time – Speedloaders and moon clips help, but revolvers reload slower than semi-autos.
- Lower velocity – Less energy transfer than 9mm or .40 S&W.
Best For:
- Concealed carry users who prefer revolvers.
- Home defense where simplicity and reliability matter.
- Beginners who want a low-recoil handgun option.
9mm: The King of Modern Handgun Calibers
The 9mm (9x19mm Parabellum) is the most popular handgun caliber worldwide, widely used by military, law enforcement, and civilians.
Pros:
- Higher magazine capacity – Standard pistols hold 10-17 rounds.
- Manageable recoil – Faster follow-up shots than .40 S&W.
- Affordable and widely available – Cheapest centerfire handgun ammo.
- Effective self-defense performance – With modern hollow points, 9mm is highly effective.
Cons:
- Slightly less stopping power – Compared to larger calibers like .40 S&W or .45 ACP.
- Overpenetration concerns – Some FMJ rounds may pass through targets.
Best For:
- Concealed carry due to its balance of power and control.
- Law enforcement and military – Most standard-issue sidearms are chambered in 9mm.
- Self-defense and home defense with high-quality hollow-point ammo.
- Competitive shooting – Many divisions use 9mm for practical shooting sports.
Popular 9mm Handguns:
- Glock 19
- Sig Sauer P320
- Smith & Wesson M&P9
- CZ Shadow 2
.40 S&W: The High-Impact Law Enforcement Caliber
Developed in the 1990s for the FBI, the .40 S&W was meant to bridge the gap between 9mm and .45 ACP by offering higher stopping power while maintaining reasonable magazine capacity.
Pros:
- More stopping power than 9mm – Fires a larger, heavier bullet.
- More manageable than .45 ACP – Offers a balance of power and shootability.
- Good penetration and expansion – Effective for self-defense.
Cons:
- Higher recoil – Snappier than 9mm, making rapid follow-up shots harder.
- Lower magazine capacity – Most .40 S&W pistols hold 10-13 rounds.
- More expensive ammo – Costs more than 9mm and can wear out firearms faster.
Best For:
- Self-defense users who want more stopping power than 9mm.
- Law enforcement and security personnel looking for extra penetration.
- Shooters who can handle recoil well and don’t mind reduced capacity.
Popular .40 S&W Handguns:
- Glock 22
- Smith & Wesson M&P40
- Sig Sauer P229
- H&K VP40
Which Caliber Is Right for You?
Final Verdict:
- For beginners and general shooters → Go with 9mm.
- For revolver lovers and those who want low recoil → Choose .38 Special.
- For those who prioritize stopping power and can handle more recoil → Consider .40 S&W.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Handgun Caliber
The best caliber for you depends on your shooting style, experience level, and intended use. While 9mm dominates the handgun market, .38 Special and .40 S&W still offer unique advantages for those who prefer revolvers or need extra stopping power.
Find Your Perfect Handgun at KYGUNCO.
Looking for a new handgun in 9mm, .40 S&W, or .38 Special? Browse our extensive selection of handguns, ammo, and accessories—and find the perfect firearm for your needs today!
