Comparing 10mm and .40 S&W AR Pistols
AR pistols are compact firearms that are widely used for self-defense, tactical purposes, and recreational shooting. Among the popular cartridges for AR pistols are 10mm and .40 S&W. Both cartridges offer different benefits and limitations, and it's essential to understand the differences between the two to make an informed choice.
History
The 10mm cartridge was introduced in the 1980s as a solution to provide a more potent and reliable round than the 9mm. Developed by Jeff Cooper & Norma, the 10mm quickly gained popularity among gun enthusiasts for its stopping power, flat trajectory, and accuracy. However, due to its snappy recoil and size, the 10mm fell out of favor with law enforcement and was replaced by the .40 S&W.
The .40 S&W cartridge was developed in the early 1990s by Smith & Wesson in collaboration with Winchester. The round was designed to offer a balance between stopping power and control while mitigating the recoil of the 10mm. The .40 S&W quickly became a favorite among law enforcement and the civilian market due to its manageable recoil, stopping power, and ease of use.
Ballistics
The 10mm cartridge is a larger and more potent round than the .40 S&W, offering more energy, range, and stopping power. The 10mm typically fires heavier bullets at higher velocities, delivering up to 800 foot-pounds of energy and up to 1200 feet per second muzzle velocity. With a flat trajectory, the 10mm has an effective range of up to 100 yards and is capable of penetrating thick barriers such as glass, walls, and doors.
On the other hand, the .40 S&W is a shorter and less potent cartridge that offers moderate stopping power and better control. The .40 S&W typically fires lighter bullets at lower velocities, delivering up to 500 foot-pounds of energy and up to 1100 feet per second muzzle velocity. With a slight arc trajectory, the .40 S&W has an effective range of up to 50 yards and is less likely to over-penetrate than the 10mm.
Best Uses
The 10mm cartridge is suitable for hunting, defense against dangerous animals, and long-range shooting. It's also ideal for shooting through barriers such as doors and walls and for those who prioritize power over control. However, due to its snappy recoil, the 10mm may be difficult to handle for those who lack experience or physical strength.
The .40 S&W cartridge is ideal for self-defense, tactical situations, and recreational shooting. It offers a balance of stopping power, accuracy, and control that makes it a reliable and versatile round. With its lower recoil and moderate size, the .40 S&W is easier to handle and less likely to cause fatigue or flinching.
Product Availability
If you are looking for an AR pistols either in 10mm or .40 S&W calibers or both, you came to the right place. Moriarti Armaments offers 10MM pistols and AR-40 Pistols in various designs and configurations. Check out our section on line for Pistol Caliber ARs, and if you are still not sure, Contact Us for more information. Happy Shooting!