Home Forums Hunting & Shooting Handguns Already have a 9mm- should I get a 40?

Me neither. Sorry, you set yourself up for that one.

I admit I have plenty to learn about defensive carry and use which is why I ask questions. To be degraded is not helpful and I have noticed the same BS from you in other posts so unless you care to add something useful take a hike.

I'd say get a 40 if you are looking for something new, also throw the sights back on your browning and rock on....

I do plan to go hiking tommorrow Rufus.

To the OP:
From an ammo perspective, the consensus seems to be that there is not that much difference between 9mm and 40 - assuming you are using the best defensive ammo for each. For the same pistol, a 9mm will likely hold a bit more ammo. For the same pistol, the 40 is likely to have more recoil.

If you get a lighter and smaller pistol in 9mm, it will be easier to carry, but there will also be more recoil. If you go to a lighter, smaller 40 compared to your Browning 9mm you will definitely notice more recoil. This could affect your ability to deliver repeat shots or shots to multiple targets. Whether this difference in recoil makes a significant difference to YOU is something only you can decide. Best to borrow, beg or rent the pistol you are thinking of buying and trying it out compared to your Browning before making a decision.

One of the many nice things about the Browning is because it is a service pistol it is quite pleasant to shoot and easy to shoot well. Smaller and lighter pistols can sacrifice that, at least to some extent. Comfortable concealed carry is partly a function of weight and bulk of the weapon, but also a function of the holster - a good holster (and if you are using a belt holster, the belt should also be considered a part of the whole system) can assist greatly in carry comfort and concealment - and don't forget that a couple of magazines on the other side can help balance things out so you don't feel as lopsided.

By the way, wouldn't it be possible to get another slide for the Browning with good fixed sights? Interchangeable parts and all that.

I carry a 40 at work, but prefer the 9mm.

In today's world i'd be more apt to consolidate my defensive handguns to one cartridge, if at all practical.

And, depending on load, a 9mm is about as effective as a .40, or .45.

I wouldn't have a handgun without adequate sights...

I tend to disagree with this , I prefer to diversify rather than consolidate. If all I have is say a .380 and I can't get ammo, I'm screwed .If I have a 9mm and a .38 and a .357 I will have ammo for at least one available. Just a different point of view

Why L? It's nice when a LEO responds to questions like this. I figured most would prefer the 40 if given the chance. I recently bought a 9mm even though I already had a 45 and 40. I figured I'd practice with it more since ammo costs less and it is more enjoyable to shoot and probably a little easier to handle.

I have a Glock 27 and reload for it. With proper care and feeding I can duplicate the most common velocity in the same bullet weight of standard factory 10mm. Tough to do that with a 9mm.

I've taken mule deer with my G27 and don't feel undergunned anywhere with it concealed. At 20oz. empty it is light and works great in the accuracy department.

Last weekend one of our sons and I were out in the desert shooting balloons that were bouncing by at 25-40 yards and hitting a surprising number of them. Him more than me.

I've worked on the trigger on mine, put on some rubber anti skid grips on it and replace the barrel with a KKM, and it came with night sights.

I've shot our sons' XD40 and its a great value as well, just like the Glocks better. (Watch Hickcok45 Utube on the Glock 27)