[gunnewb]

My gun experience is limited to shooting various rifles, shotguns, and very few handguns as a kid. I did own a colt 380 for a while. but other than that I have no handgun experience. I am looking for a CCW and have pretty much decided on the XD subcompact. I don't see much if anything in these forums about the subcompact in the .40s&w. I was hoping that I could get some insight about the differences between the gun in 9mm vs .40.

Does the .40 cartridge cause too much recoil for the small weapon? is it more or less prone to malfunctions than the 9mm? the Hicap mag for the 9 carries 15 vs. 12 for the .40. Is it worth sacrificing the additional stopping power for the additional 3 rounds?

I am aware that 9mm is less expensive, and .40 has more stopping power. Asside from that can anyone give me just general knowledge about the pros/cons to 9mm vs. .40?

I'm more inclined to go with the .40 as the cost of ammo doesnt really concern me that much. If there are some really valid reasons why I should go with the 9mm in this type of gun I am open to changing my mind.

Thanks

Jer

 

[HighVelocity]

Since ammo cost isn't an issue go with the 40. I have the 9 and it's great but I didn't buy it for a primary defense gun. Looking back I probably should have gotten the 40 since I could've gotten a 9mm conv barrell and been able to shoot both.

 

[gunnewb]

There is a 9mm conversion available for the .40 XD SC?

who makes it and who sells it ?

 

[RicochetJim]

As far as I know there are no conversion barrels for the SC's -- only the service model.

But as to the original question, it would be best if you could shoot before you buy. However, if a little more recoil (or muzzle flip) in the .40 SC does not bother you, then no reason not to go with the .40.

I have the Pearce grip extension on my XD-9 Subby to support my pinky and it makes all the difference to me.

 

[poortrader]

I prefer the .40 sc over the 9mm. I just traded my .40 4" for the sc. I did shoot the 9mm before getting the .40. The .40 has slightly more recoil, but it's worth it. I also have a 3" kimber .45 ultra carry, which has about the same recoil. Bigger is better.

But if you get the 9mm, buy .40 magazines for it. You can put about 12 rounds of 9mm into it. Don't use the extension mag for carry because it's not comfortable. I fed 9mm rounds from my .40 mag without any adjustments.

Try to shoot both before you buy it. If you can't, just practice a lot.

 

[gunnewb]

Thanks for the input.

I doubt I'll get a chance to shoot both or even one SC before I buy. Most ranges have them new but not as rental guns that I've found.

I think I'll go with the .40

 

[poortrader]

good choice.

I was able to spend some quality time with my .40sc at the range today. I had a decently grouping at 7yds. I think I shot better with the 3" than with my 4" .40 that I just traded in.

enjoy

 

[RBG4Life]

I had a decently grouping at 7yds. I think I shot better with the 3" than with my 4" .40 that I just traded in.

exactly what happened to me. i was pretty happy with my .40 sub. only problem is i've only shot around 300 rounds in 7 or 8 months though.