[Archie]

What nonsense.

The .40 S&W round has more bullet weight, more bullet diameter and about the same velocities as the 9x19 (shootabunch) NATO round. I have no doubt the .40 S&W has more momentum and greater usable energy than the 9 in just about any circumstance.

On paper, the .40 has greater recoil than some 9x19 loadings, but I find shooting them does not seem punishing or intimidating. The H&K USP40(c) - my primary carry pistol - is no more objectionable in recoil than any of my other serious caliber guns.

My H&K will print five rounds into the head section of an NRA B27 target at 25 yards with regularity. (Ammunition used was Winchester Ranger SXT 165.) It holds 12 rounds of ammunition in each magazine. (I don't plan on shooting or missing a great deal. If that's the plan, perhaps a submachinegun is in order.)

Malfunctions? What malfunctions? I think I had a hangup once with a lead bullet catching on the feed ramp. It may have been with something else.

I learned to shoot with the Government Model, the big Colt O frame model. I am also very impressed and pleased with S&W revolvers (of the older style). A four inch .357 Magnum is just dandy for all sorts of purposes.

But I currently carry a .40 S&W because it works so well. The idea that the recoil is intimidating is just silly. It reminds me of the horror stories about the fearsome recoil of the .45 ACP round from a Government Model. Just plain nonsense. The idea the 9x19 round is 'just as effective' is wishful thinking.