The .40 S&W may no longer dominate police holsters the way it once did, but it has never really disappeared. For plenty of shooters, it still offers a satisfying middle ground: more punch than 9mm, more capacity than .45, and a recoil impulse they’ve learned to trust. These seven pistols prove the caliber still has serious fans—and some very solid platforms behind it.
Glock 22
If there is a single pistol that defines the .40 S&W era, it is the Glock 22. For years, it was the sidearm that introduced countless law enforcement officers and civilian shooters to the cartridge, building a reputation around capacity, simplicity, and easy maintenance.
What keeps it relevant is how familiar and practical it still feels. The full-size frame helps tame the caliber’s snappier recoil, and the aftermarket support is as deep as ever. For shooters who want a proven duty-style pistol with a long record of real-world use, the Glock 22 remains one of the safest bets in the category.
Smith & Wesson M&P40
The M&P40 earned its place by offering an alternative to the dominant striker-fired formulas without straying too far from what duty users wanted. Its ergonomics were a major selling point from the start, especially for shooters who found the grip shape more natural in the hand.
That matters with .40 S&W, because comfort and control can make a noticeable difference over long practice sessions. The pistol’s low bore axis, respectable trigger evolution across generations, and broad parts availability have helped it age well. For fans of the caliber who want a modern service pistol with a slightly softer, more planted feel, the M&P40 still makes a strong case.
Heckler & Koch USP .40
The USP .40 has always had a certain tank-like charisma. Built during a time when manufacturers were treating .40 S&W as the future of service handguns, the pistol developed a reputation for handling hot loads, rough use, and high round counts without much drama.
That overbuilt personality is exactly why many enthusiasts still seek one out. The controls are distinctive, the recoil system was ahead of its time, and the pistol has a sturdy, confidence-inspiring feel in the hand. It may not be the slimmest or trendiest option on the market, but for shooters who value rugged engineering, the USP .40 still feels like a classic heavyweight.
Beretta PX4 Storm .40
The Beretta PX4 Storm never got the same spotlight as some of its rivals, but it remains one of the more interesting .40 S&W pistols around. Its rotating barrel system gives it a different shooting character, and many fans say that translates into a smoother feel than they expected from the caliber.
That distinct recoil impulse is a big part of the charm. The PX4 also brings solid ergonomics, dependable magazine capacity, and a shape that feels a little more sculpted than many duty guns of its generation. For shooters who want a .40 that stands apart from the usual striker-fired crowd, this Beretta is still an intriguing option.
Springfield XD .40
The Springfield XD .40 became a familiar sight during the peak years of the cartridge, and it still has a loyal following. Part of that comes down to its straightforward controls and its grip safety, which gave some buyers an extra layer of reassurance without making the pistol complicated to run.
It also has the kind of practical, no-nonsense personality that suits .40 S&W well. The grip angle feels intuitive to many shooters, and the full-size versions in particular can be surprisingly manageable at the range. If you like your defensive pistols simple, durable, and easy to get along with, the XD .40 still deserves a second look.
Walther P99 .40
The Walther P99 in .40 S&W is a reminder that the caliber’s heyday produced some genuinely distinctive handguns. Sleek, ergonomic, and a little more unconventional than its American contemporaries, the P99 offered features that felt fresh then and still feel clever now.
Its interchangeable backstraps, sculpted grip, and unique trigger variants gave shooters real choices in how the gun fit and operated. In .40, it has a lively but controllable personality that rewards a solid grip and good technique. For enthusiasts who enjoy pistols with a bit more character than the average service gun, the P99 remains a memorable and worthy member of the .40 club.
Ruger SR40
The Ruger SR40 may not be the first name that comes up in every .40 S&W conversation, but that is part of what makes it appealing. It was designed as a slim, approachable striker-fired pistol at a time when many shooters still wanted the caliber in a practical, affordable package.
Its trimmer profile helps it stand out from some bulkier duty guns, while the grip design gives it a comfortable, easy-to-hold feel. Add in Ruger’s reputation for value and robust construction, and the SR40 starts to look like a smart pick for shooters who never needed trendiness. It is an underrated reminder that the .40 story includes more than just the usual headliners.
