The Origins and Evolutions of Two Powerhouses
The world of handguns, both in the realm of self-defense and the world of firearms enthusiasts, is filled with passionate discussions. One of the most persistent debates revolves around the choice of cartridge, the specific ammunition that powers these formidable tools. Among the many rounds available, two stand out as perennial favorites, sparking arguments about their relative merits: the forty, and the ten-millimeter Auto. This article dives deep into the history, ballistics, performance, and practical applications of the forty and the ten, helping you understand the nuances of each and providing insights into which might be the right choice for you.
The Forty’s Foundation in Law Enforcement
The story of the forty is firmly rooted in the challenges of modern law enforcement. The 1986 Miami shootout, a tragic event where police officers were severely outgunned, highlighted the need for law enforcement to wield a cartridge with more stopping power than the then-standard nine-millimeter Parabellum. As a result, several manufacturers began exploring options to address this need. Smith & Wesson, in collaboration with Winchester, stepped up to the plate, utilizing a shortened ten-millimeter Auto case to design a cartridge capable of fitting into more compact handgun frames. Thus, the forty Smith & Wesson, commonly written as forty S&W, was born. Its intent was clear: to deliver a potent punch in a package that was easier to control and to allow for a wide adoption across different handgun platforms. This effort resulted in a round that struck a balance between power and controllability, making it a promising choice for both law enforcement and civilian self-defense.
The Genesis of the Ten-Millimeter Auto
The ten-millimeter Auto, on the other hand, had a different origin story. The round, conceived by firearms designer, Dornaus & Dixon, and later developed by the Norwegian ammunition manufacturer, Norma, emerged in the early 1980s. This cartridge was designed with the intention of creating a handgun cartridge capable of producing both high velocity and significant energy. It aimed to offer a step up from the traditional thirty-five seven Magnum revolver, but for the burgeoning semi-automatic pistol market. The ten, in its earliest form, gained a dedicated following. It provided a substantial leap in both muzzle velocity and energy output compared to other popular choices. This added power and performance was particularly attractive to those seeking more stopping power, especially for the challenges of bear defense or those wanting an edge in a competitive shooting environment.
The Rise, Fall, and Rebirth of the Ten
However, the ten experienced an unusual trajectory in terms of popularity. Early firearms chambered in ten, such as the Bren Ten, captivated audiences with their power and potential. However, issues related to handgun design, coupled with the cartridge’s relatively high recoil, and the limited availability of ammunition, caused demand to decline. The ten was eventually somewhat marginalized. Years later, the ten-millimeter Auto experienced a resurgence, fueled by advancements in ammunition manufacturing, the development of more robust firearms platforms, and an appreciation for its ballistic capabilities. This comeback helped restore the ten-millimeter Auto to its position as a serious contender.
Deciphering the Data: A Deep Dive into Ballistics
Understanding the performance characteristics of the forty and the ten requires a closer look at their technical specifications. The forty employs a .40-inch diameter bullet and is housed in a case that, while wider than the nine millimeter, is shorter than the ten-millimeter Auto. Bullet weights for the forty typically range from around one hundred thirty-five grains to one hundred eighty grains. When using an average weight bullet, say one hundred eighty grains, it often exits the muzzle at velocities between nine hundred to one thousand feet per second, resulting in a muzzle energy of four hundred to five hundred foot-pounds.
The ten, on the other hand, possesses a slightly larger .40-inch diameter bullet, and features a longer case. This additional case length allows for greater powder capacity. As a result, the ten typically pushes bullets, such as one hundred eighty-grain projectiles, at velocities approaching, or exceeding, twelve hundred feet per second. This delivers a corresponding increase in muzzle energy, often well above seven hundred foot-pounds. The difference in energy is substantial. The higher energy translates to a flatter trajectory and increased stopping potential, which is the energy of the round transferring to the target.
Both cartridges generate significant chamber pressures during firing. The forty is generally loaded to pressures that balance performance with recoil. The ten, owing to its larger case capacity and greater energy potential, can achieve considerably higher chamber pressures, further boosting its performance.
Performance Profiles: Assessing Stopping Power and Handling
The perceived effectiveness of the forty is a matter of debate. It offers a respectable balance of power and controllability. Its recoil, although more assertive than a nine millimeter, is generally viewed as manageable by a wide range of shooters. This allows for faster follow-up shots, a crucial element in a self-defense situation. The forty is often praised for its effectiveness in stopping threats. However, like any cartridge, its performance is dependent on bullet design, ammunition quality, and the nature of the threat.
The ten, with its higher energy, is often regarded as having a significant stopping power advantage. Its capacity to penetrate barriers and consistently deliver more energy on target make it a popular choice among those facing larger or more dangerous threats. The ten’s recoil is undoubtedly more pronounced than the forty. This can impact shooter comfort and the ability to maintain accurate shot placement, particularly during rapid fire. However, many shooters find that proper grip and training can mitigate the recoil’s impact, allowing them to harness the ten’s advantages.
The forty’s performance is enhanced by its relatively manageable recoil. This allows for rapid follow-up shots and increased accuracy potential. The ten-millimeter Auto, on the other hand, is frequently chosen by individuals looking for more potential energy, offering deeper penetration.
Firearms Platforms and Ammunition Landscape
The forty boasts widespread availability in a vast array of handguns. Companies like Glock, Smith & Wesson, Sig Sauer, and many others offer various models chambered in the forty. The cartridge’s popularity has led to a broad selection of firearms to choose from, catering to different needs and preferences. The ammunition landscape for the forty is equally diverse. A wide variety of bullet weights, designs, and brands ensure that the forty can be tailored for specific purposes, from personal defense to competitive shooting.
The ten, while not as ubiquitous as the forty, enjoys a strong presence in several firearm platforms. Glock offers a notable selection of models. Brands such as Springfield Armory, Colt, and Dan Wesson offer top-tier 1911-style pistols chambered in ten. Ammunition availability for the ten has significantly improved over the years. Although not as readily available as the forty, there is a growing selection of high-quality ammunition to suit various shooting demands.
The Good and the Bad: Examining the Pros and Cons
The forty offers many advantages. Its moderate recoil allows for rapid follow-up shots, making it user-friendly, especially for shooters of smaller stature. It is often more affordable to shoot than the ten. The widespread availability of firearms and ammunition contributes to its popularity. The forty has a reputation of being a very good choice for self-defense. However, the forty has some drawbacks. Its recoil, although manageable, can still be pronounced, particularly in lightweight firearms. Some feel it lacks the power of the ten, although this is subjective.
The ten delivers substantial power. Its higher energy provides superior penetration, making it well-suited for defense against larger threats. Its long-range capabilities are also enhanced. The ten is known to be very accurate and effective in hunting applications. Yet, there are cons. The ten’s recoil is more assertive, potentially impacting shooter performance. The ammunition cost may be higher than that of the forty, and the number of firearms platforms available in this round, is still fewer than the forty.
A Practical Lens: Considerations for Every Shooter
When considering which cartridge is best, several practical factors should be examined. The intended user is critical. Shooters seeking a balance of power and controllability might lean toward the forty. Shooters who desire maximum power and penetration might prefer the ten. Recoil management is of utmost importance. If you cannot comfortably and accurately handle the recoil, the benefits of a more powerful cartridge become less relevant.
The cost and accessibility of ammunition are also critical. The more accessible the ammunition, the more opportunity there is for practice. Personal preference, of course, is paramount. The best cartridge is ultimately the one that you shoot the most accurately and confidently.
A Final Word
In the ongoing debate between the forty and the ten, there is no definitive winner. The forty offers a balanced platform with effective power and moderate recoil. The ten delivers a significant increase in energy and penetration. The choice is a decision that should depend on individual requirements, skill levels, and intended use. The decision to select either a forty S&W, or a ten-millimeter Auto, is a deeply personal one. Taking the time to understand the advantages of both rounds, will help to clarify which cartridge is the best fit for your specific needs.
