Locating reliable .40 S&W load data is essential for maximizing the accuracy and terminal performance of this incredibly popular law enforcement and self-defense cartridge.
This guide compiles verified .40 S&W reloading data to help you safely develop the perfect round for competitive shooting, target practice, or concealed carry.
Whether you are loading lightweight 135-grain jacketed hollow points or standard 180-grain target bullets, always cross-reference these published figures before charging your cases.
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.40 S&W Load Data
| Bullet | Bullet Weight | Powder | Published Starting Load | Published Maximum Load | Published Velocity | Barrel Length / Firearm | Source |
| Hornady XTP | 155 gr | CFE Pistol | 6.1 gr | 7.2 gr (33,400 PSI) | 1,050 – 1,180 fps | 4″ / Universal Receiver | Hodgdon |
| Speer GDHP | 165 gr | Power Pistol | 6.5 gr | 7.2 gr | 980 – 1,080 fps | 4″ / Universal Receiver | Alliant Powder |
| Sierra JHP | 180 gr | Titegroup | 4.2 gr | 4.7 gr (33,300 PSI) | 850 – 950 fps | 4″ / Universal Receiver | Hodgdon |
| Berry’s Plated | 180 gr | W231 | 4.4 gr | 5.1 gr (33,000 PSI) | 800 – 920 fps | 4″ / Universal Receiver | Hodgdon |
| Nosler JHP | 135 gr | AutoComp | 7.2 gr | 7.8 gr (33,800 PSI) | 1,100 – 1,220 fps | 4″ / Universal Receiver | Hodgdon |
.40 S&W Reloading Data
| Bullet | Bullet Weight | Powder | Published Starting Load | Published Maximum Load | Published Velocity | Barrel Length / Firearm | Source |
| Hornady HAP | 180 gr | HS-6 | 6.1 gr | 6.9 gr (32,900 PSI) | 850 – 980 fps | 4″ / Universal Receiver | Hodgdon |
| Barnes TAC-XP | 140 gr | Silhouette | 6.4 gr | 7.2 gr | 950 – 1,080 fps | 4″ / Universal Receiver | Western Powders |
| Speer TMJ | 165 gr | Unique | 5.5 gr | 6.2 gr | 900 – 1,020 fps | 4″ / Universal Receiver | Alliant Powder |
| Sierra FMJ | 180 gr | Accurate No. 5 | 6.0 gr | 6.8 gr | 880 – 990 fps | 4″ / Universal Receiver | Western Powders |
| Cast LRN | 180 gr | Bullseye | 4.0 gr | 4.5 gr | 800 – 900 fps | 4″ / Universal Receiver | Alliant Powder |
Understanding the .40 S&W Reloading Data
Reading .40 S&W reloading data requires an understanding of the cartridge’s high-pressure design and limited internal case capacity. Developed in the early 1990s as a shortened version of the 10mm Auto to fit into 9mm-sized pistol frames, the .40 S&W operates at intense pressures. The tables above provide a baseline for safe load development using modern pistol powders. Because the case is short and filled with dense propellants, handloaders must pay meticulous attention to bullet seating depth, as seating a bullet even a fraction of an inch too deeply will dangerously spike chamber pressures.
.40 S&W Bullet Weight Reloading Data
The .40 S&W typically utilizes bullet weights ranging from 135 grains up to 180 grains, with 200-grain options occasionally used for heavy subsonic loads. The 180-grain projectile is the undisputed industry standard, originally designed to mimic the FBI’s reduced-velocity 10mm loads. However, 165-grain and 155-grain bullets are also incredibly popular, offering a noticeable increase in velocity and kinetic energy while maintaining excellent terminal performance for law enforcement and personal defense applications.
.40 S&W Powder Reloading Data
Powder selection for the .40 S&W revolves almost entirely around fast to medium-burn-rate pistol propellants. Powders like Hodgdon Titegroup, Winchester 231 (W231), and Alliant Bullseye are the most popular choices for economical, soft-shooting target loads. When loading for maximum velocity and defensive performance, slightly slower pistol powders like Power Pistol, CFE Pistol, HS-6, and AutoComp provide the sustained pressure curve necessary to drive expanding bullets to their peak potential.
.40 S&W Bullet and Powder Combinations
Pairing the right bullet with the appropriate powder is critical for managing the .40 S&W’s notoriously “snappy” recoil impulse. A 180-grain full metal jacket (FMJ) bullet paired with a modest charge of Titegroup or W231 creates a highly accurate, manageable target load favored by USPSA and IPSC competitors. Conversely, loading a 165-grain jacketed hollow point (JHP) over a healthy charge of Power Pistol or CFE Pistol maximizes kinetic energy transfer for defensive carry ammunition.
.40 S&W Velocity From Published Data
Published velocity figures for the .40 S&W bridge the gap perfectly between the 9mm Luger and the .45 ACP. Using lightweight 135-grain and 155-grain bullets, the cartridge can comfortably exceed 1,100 fps, producing explosive terminal expansion. When utilizing the standard 180-grain bullet, velocities typically settle between 900 and 1,000 fps. This heavy bullet moving at high-subsonic to low-supersonic speeds provides deep, straight-line penetration through heavy clothing and intermediate barriers.
.40 S&W Reloading Data by Barrel Length
Most published load data for the .40 S&W is developed using a 4-inch test barrel, which simulates the standard duty-sized pistols like the Glock 22 or Smith & Wesson M&P40. If you carry a subcompact pistol with a 3-inch barrel, you can expect a velocity loss of approximately 50 to 80 fps below published figures. Conversely, competitors shooting 5-inch or 5.3-inch long-slide pistols will see a modest velocity gain, which helps ensure they meet required power factors for match shooting.
.40 S&W Energy and Ballistics
The .40 S&W generates highly impressive kinetic energy, frequently producing between 400 and 500 foot-pounds of energy at the muzzle depending on the load. Because it features a .400-inch frontal diameter, it cuts larger wound channels than a 9mm before expansion even begins. The trajectory is relatively flat inside of 25 yards, making it an extraordinarily effective self-defense cartridge with excellent inherent accuracy across a wide variety of handgun platforms.
.40 S&W Hunting Applications
While the .40 S&W is primarily recognized as a premier duty and self-defense round, it has practical applications as a close-range hunting and camp defense cartridge. Loaded with deep-penetrating 180-grain bonded bullets or hard-cast lead projectiles, it is fully capable of taking feral hogs, coyotes, and medium-sized game within 30 yards. It is also highly favored as a backup sidearm for hunters navigating dense brush where an encounter with a predator is possible.
Manufacturer Data vs. Independent Testing
Because early generations of .40 S&W pistols (specifically older Glock models) featured partially unsupported chambers, adhering strictly to official manufacturer load data is a critical safety requirement. Independent forum data occasionally features “hot-rodded” loads that can cause the brass case to bulge near the web—often referred to as a “Glock smile”—which can lead to catastrophic case blowouts. Always prioritize official, pressure-tested manufacturer data and inspect your fired brass for severe bulging.
.40 S&W Pressure and Safety
The SAAMI Maximum Average Pressure (MAP) for the .40 S&W is a stout 35,000 PSI, the same pressure limit as the 9mm Luger. The most significant safety hazard when reloading the .40 S&W is “bullet setback,” which occurs if inadequate neck tension allows the bullet to be pushed deeper into the case during the feeding cycle. Because the internal powder space is so small, a bullet pushed just 0.10 inches too deep can double the chamber pressure and destroy the firearm. Always apply a firm taper crimp.
Best Sources for .40 S&W Reloading Data
The most reliable sources for load data are the printed manuals and digital databases maintained by major component manufacturers. The Hodgdon Reloading Data Center offers extensive, free digital tables covering a massive array of modern spherical and flake pistol propellants. Additionally, the Hornady Handbook of Cartridge Reloading and the Speer Reloading Manual provide meticulously tested recipes tailored to their highly popular self-defense hollow points and target projectiles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find .40 S&W reloading data?
You can find accurate .40 S&W reloading data in published manuals from Hornady, Speer, and Sierra, or digitally on the official Hodgdon Reloading Data Center website.
What powders are listed in published .40 S&W data?
Commonly listed fast to medium pistol powders include Titegroup, Winchester 231, CFE Pistol, Power Pistol, Unique, AutoComp, and HS-6.
What bullet weights are covered in these tables?
These tables primarily cover the optimal .400-caliber bullet weights for the cartridge, ranging from lightweight 135-grain bullets up to standard 180-grain projectiles.
Does barrel length affect .40 S&W velocity?
Yes, shooting from a 3-inch subcompact carry pistol rather than a standard 4-inch test barrel will typically result in a velocity loss of approximately 50 to 80 feet per second.
Can I use standard rifle primers for .40 S&W?
No, you must strictly use small pistol primers for the .40 S&W, as standard rifle primers feature thicker cups that can cause misfires and alter chamber pressures in handguns.
What is the difference between .40 S&W load data and reloading data?
There is no practical difference; both terms refer to the precise recipes of powder charges, bullet weights, and primers required to safely assemble the ammunition.
Why do published velocity figures differ between sources?
Velocity figures differ because testing facilities use varying specific test barrels, environmental conditions, brass lot capacities, and primer types during their distinct testing protocols.
Should I use the maximum published load?
You should never start with the maximum published load; always begin with the minimum recommended starting charge and carefully work up while monitoring your brass for pressure signs.
Can I use data from one bullet manufacturer for another bullet?
You should only use data specifically designed for the exact bullet profile you are loading, as variations in seating depth drastically alter the already limited internal case capacity, heavily affecting chamber pressure.
Where should I verify .40 S&W load data before reloading?
You should strictly verify all load data against an official, recently published manufacturer manual or a powder company’s official online database before assembling any ammunition.