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Best Grain For 40 S&W (2025 Updated)

If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient ammunition for your 40 S&W firearm, then you might want to consider using grain ammo. This type of ammunition is designed to provide a consistent and powerful performance that can help you achieve better accuracy and proficiency when shooting.

Before buying any grain ammo for your 40 S&W, it’s important to consider various factors to ensure that you get the best product for your needs. For instance, you should consider the type of shooting that you’ll be doing, such as target shooting, self-defense, or hunting. You should also determine the grain weight that’s suitable for your firearm, as well as the quality of the materials, the design of the bullet, and the price point that you’re comfortable with.

To make the right decision when choosing grain ammo for your 40 S&W, you may want to ask yourself the following questions: What are the benefits of using grain ammo over other types of ammo? How much should I expect to pay for high-quality grain ammo? What are the potential downsides of using grain ammo compared to other types? By answering these questions, you can gain a better understanding of what to look for and what to expect when buying grain ammo for your 40 S&W.

10 Best Grain For 40 S&W

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
The product is ideal for concealed carry of a Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 9mm/40 S&W.
2
It is an ideal gun holster for concealed carry of Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 9mm / 40 S&W with Crimson Trace Laser.
3
This product is ideal for creating bullets that are .40 S&W caliber, weigh 175 grains, and have a truncated cone shape.
4
Ideal for protecting RV water systems from hard water deposits, build-up, corrosion, and scale with its pre-filled high-capacity resin and neoprene shield.
5
This product is ideal for enhancing accuracy and speed during shooting with specific models of Smith & Wesson handguns.
6
This product is ideal for measuring small amounts of weight in laboratory settings with high precision and accuracy.
7
It is ideal for those looking for a solid wood sliding barn door in a modern or British brace style.
8
The product is ideal for securely and comfortably carrying a specific model of firearm for law enforcement or military duty.
9
Ideal for precision drilling in wood and plastics, with various sizes ranging from 3/32 to 1/2 inches.
10
The product is an ideal holster for securely holding a specific model of firearm with a light attachment.
The product is ideal for concealed carry of a Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 9mm/40 S&W.
It is an ideal gun holster for concealed carry of Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 9mm / 40 S&W with Crimson Trace Laser.
This product is ideal for creating bullets that are .40 S&W caliber, weigh 175 grains, and have a truncated cone shape.
Ideal for protecting RV water systems from hard water deposits, build-up, corrosion, and scale with its pre-filled high-capacity resin and neoprene shield.
This product is ideal for enhancing accuracy and speed during shooting with specific models of Smith & Wesson handguns.
This product is ideal for measuring small amounts of weight in laboratory settings with high precision and accuracy.
It is ideal for those looking for a solid wood sliding barn door in a modern or British brace style.
The product is ideal for securely and comfortably carrying a specific model of firearm for law enforcement or military duty.
Ideal for precision drilling in wood and plastics, with various sizes ranging from 3/32 to 1/2 inches.
The product is an ideal holster for securely holding a specific model of firearm with a light attachment.

1. Craftedshield: Usa-Made Gun Holster For M&p Shield

The Inside Pants Holster is designed to be worn inside the pants, and is not suitable for outside pants or small of back carry. It is important to note that this holster will not fit SHIELD EZ models. The holster is handcrafted in the USA using high-quality full grain leather which is hard-molded, ensuring a secure fit for your firearm. As with all leather holsters, it will require some breaking in before it becomes comfortable to wear. The brown dye used to color the holster is hand-dyed to preserve the natural characteristics of the leather, resulting in a unique range of medium to dark brown shades. It is important to note that the holster belt clip will vary from the photographs shown.

Pros

  • Handcrafted in the USA using high-quality full grain leather for durability and longevity
  • Hard-molded leather provides a secure fit for your firearm
  • Unique range of medium to dark brown shades due to hand-dyed brown dye
  • Designed for inside pants carry

Cons

  • – Not suitable for outside pants or small of back carry
  • – Will not fit SHIELD EZ models
  • – Requires breaking in before becoming comfortable to wear

2. Shield Master Leather Gun Holster By Outbags Usa

The Inside Pants Holster is a top-quality holster that is handcrafted in the USA from full-grain leather. It is designed to be worn inside the pants and is not suitable for outside pants or small of back wear. The holster is made from hard-molded leather, which means that it will require breaking in before use. The hand-dyed leather is treated to preserve its natural characteristics. The brown dye used on the holster will vary in range from medium to dark brown, which adds to the uniqueness of each holster. The Inside Pants Holster is designed to fit only the Crimson Trace Red Laser, ensuring a perfect fit for your firearm. The holster is a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality, durable holster that is designed to last.

If you want a holster that is comfortable to wear and provides excellent protection for your firearm, then the Inside Pants Holster is an excellent choice. It is made from top-quality materials and is designed to provide a perfect fit for your firearm. Whether you are a gun owner who carries for self-defense or simply enjoys target shooting, this holster is a great choice.

Overall, the Inside Pants Holster is an excellent choice for anyone who wants a high-quality, durable holster that is designed to provide excellent protection for their firearm.

Pros

  • Made from top-quality full-grain leather
  • Handcrafted in the USA
  • Designed to fit the Crimson Trace Red Laser perfectly
  • Hard-molded leather provides excellent protection for your firearm
  • Hand-dyed to preserve natural leather characteristics
  • Comfortable to wear

Cons

  • – Not suitable for outside pants or small of back wear
  • – Requires breaking in

3. 6-Cavity Bullet Mold For .40 S&w

The aluminum blocks of this bullet mold are rust-resistant and have been lathe bored with steel bushings and alignment pins, ensuring their durability and accuracy when casting bullets. The machined aluminum mold blocks and hard anodized sprue plate make this mold a reliable choice for producing .401 diameter 175 grain truncated cone nose bullets that are suitable for cartridges such as 40S&W, 10mm, and others. This particular mold consists of a 6-cavity block, allowing for efficient and productive casting. Please note that bullet mold lube and handles are sold separately.

For those who are looking for a high-quality bullet mold, this product is an excellent choice. Its rust-resistant aluminum blocks and sturdy steel bushings and alignment pins make it a reliable tool for casting bullets. Moreover, its machined aluminum mold blocks and hard anodized sprue plate ensure that it will produce consistent and accurate results time and time again. With six cavities, this mold is perfect for those who need to cast a large number of bullets efficiently. While bullet mold lube and handles are sold separately, this product is still an excellent choice for those who are looking for a reliable and durable bullet mold.

Pros

  • Rust-resistant aluminum blocks
  • Lathe bored with steel bushings and alignment pins
  • Machined aluminum mold blocks and hard anodized sprue plate
  • Produces consistent and accurate results
  • Six cavity block for efficient casting

Cons

  • – Bullet mold lube and handles sold separately

4. Rv Aqua Shield: Prevent Hard Water Build-Up!

The PRO+AQUA Portable Water Softener is an innovative solution designed to improve the overall smell and taste of water by protecting it from hard water deposits, build-up, corrosion, and scale. The water softener is highly efficient and effectively softens water for up to 60 days or 2000 gallons with its 16,000-grain capacity. The product is designed for easy use and can be connected to any standard water hose connections typically found in campgrounds or park faucets. It is also ready to use in just 5 minutes, with no tools or electricity required.

This portable water softener is multi-purpose and can be used in a variety of settings, including RVs, trailers, marinas, boats, spas, mobile car washing, and pressure washing. It is also effective in reducing the levels of calcium, magnesium, iron, lead, radium, heavy metals, and more from the water, making it safe for drinking and bathing.

The PRO+AQUA Portable Water Softener is built to last with its rugged NSF Polyethylene tank that is reinforced with durable fiberglass. The tank is pre-filled with NSF Certified food-grade premium resin that ensures the product's effectiveness in softening water. Additionally, it does not require electricity and regenerates easily with two boxes of common table salt in less than 30 minutes.

With its compact size of only 10" x 19.5", this portable softener & conditioner produces twice the gallons and 40% more soft water compared to other brands, offering value for money. It comes with a 2-year warranty, making it a reliable and durable option for anyone looking to improve the quality of their water.

Pros

  • Highly efficient in improving the taste and smell of water.
  • Ready to use in 5 minutes with no tools or electricity required.
  • Multi-purpose and works effectively in reducing the levels of harmful contaminants.
  • Rugged NSF Polyethylene tank reinforced with durable fiberglass for long-lasting use.
  • Regenerates easily with two boxes of common table salt in less than 30 minutes.
  • Compact size produces twice the gallons and 40% more soft water compared to other brands.
  • Comes with a 2-year warranty for added peace of mind.

5. M&p 2.0 Laser Sight: Instinct Activation.

The Crimson Trace Laser Sight is an excellent tool for improving your accuracy and speed when shooting. With a peak of 5Mw and a visible green laser beam of 515-532nm, this laser sight is the brightest allowed by law. The front activation button is instinctive, which means that it engages the laser immediately when the firearm is held in a normal firing grip. This feature sets the Crimson Trace Laser Sight apart from the rest. The battery life of the laser sight is over two hours, and it is powered by one 1/3N battery (included).

This laser sight is easy to install and requires no gunsmithing. It is factory sighted at 50 feet, but you can fully adjust the windage and elevation using the provided tool. The Crimson Trace Laser Sight is compatible with Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 Full-Size & Compact 9mm, 40 Smith & Wesson, and 45 Auto, making it a versatile option for a range of firearms.

Pros

  • Brightest laser beam allowed by law
  • Instinctive front activation button
  • Over two hours of battery life
  • Easy to install with no gunsmithing required
  • Fully adjustable windage and elevation

6. Lab-Scale: Digital Analytical Precision Balance

The 100 g Rang Scale is a highly accurate and precise weighing instrument with a resolution of 0.001 g (1 mg) and an accuracy of ±0.002 g. The scale comes equipped with an LCD display with backlight for easy reading, and an RS232 interface for easy communication. Additionally, the scale features a draft shield that significantly improves the quality of your weighing results, and a dust protective cover that effectively protects the panel against dust and stains.

One of the standout features of this scale is its unit conversion capability, which includes Gram, Kilogram, Carat, Tola, TAR, Dram, PKT, Grain, TMR, gsm, tlJ, mo, Penny weight, Ounce, Pound, Taiwan Tael, Troy-Ounce, Hong Kong Tael, and %. This makes it incredibly versatile and suitable for a wide range of applications.

The scale also comes with manual calibration, tare function, part count function, and overload protection, which ensures that you get accurate results every time. Overall, the 100 g Rang Scale is an excellent choice for anyone who needs a reliable and precise weighing instrument for their work or personal use.

Pros

  • Highly accurate and precise
  • LCD display with backlight for easy reading
  • RS232 interface for easy communication
  • Draft shield improves the quality of weighing results
  • Dust protective cover effectively protects the panel
  • Versatile unit conversion capability
  • Manual calibration, tare function, part count function, and overload protection ensure accurate results every time

7. Modern Solid Wood Barn Door

Introducing the Unfinished Barn Door made of 100% natural spruce, perfect for adding rustic charm to any room. This single door is pre-cut and pre-drilled, with all wood panels mitered for a snug fit. The surface is unfinished and ready to be stained or painted to your preferred finish or color. With screws included and pre-drilled screw holes, assembly is easy and hassle-free. This product allows each customer to create a unique door by placing each plank in the desired location.

The Unfinished Barn Door is manufactured using quality wood harvested from professionally managed forests, making it sturdy and durable for long years of enjoyment. The genuine spruce from Canada provides natural rustic wood beauty, perfect for a study, dining room area, or an elegant transition between spaces. Barn doors enhance and unify your space with light and beauty, making them a great addition to any home.

Please note that the sliding rail kit is not included with the door.

Pros

  • Made of 100% natural spruce
  • Surface is unfinished and ready to be stained or painted to desired finish/color
  • Sturdy and durable for long years of enjoyment
  • Easy and hassle-free assembly with screws included and pre-drilled screw holes
  • Allows for customization to create a truly unique door

Cons

  • – Sliding rail kit is not included

8. Safariland Mid-Ride Duty Holster For S&w M&p.

The Level III Retention holster is designed to provide maximum security to the weapon. It features an ALS (Automatic Locking System) that ensures the weapon is safely locked in place once holstered. Moreover, it also has the SLS (Self Locking System) Rotating Hood, which adds to the security of the weapon. The hood guard is included as a standard feature, providing extra protection to the weapon.

The holster is made of a proprietary nylon blend called Safari Seven, which is completely non-abrasive to the firearm's finish. This means that it won't cause any damage or scratches to the surface of the weapon.

The holster is designed to be a mid-ride level, making it easy to draw the weapon once all releases are deactivated. It has 2.25" (58mm) belt slots, making it easy to attach to a belt or other gear.

Pros

  • Provides maximum security to the weapon
  • ALS (Automatic Locking System) ensures the weapon is safely locked in place once holstered
  • SLS (Self Locking System) Rotating Hood adds to the security of the weapon
  • Hood guard included as a standard feature, providing extra protection to the weapon
  • Safari Seven proprietary nylon blend is completely non-abrasive to the firearm's finish
  • Mid-ride level design makes it easy to draw the weapon once all releases are deactivated
  • 2.25" (58mm) belt slots make it easy to attach to a belt or other gear

9. Set Of 14 Fractional Brad Point Drills 3/32-1/2

WL Fuller is proud to offer their high-quality brad-point drill bits which are made in the USA. These drill bits are made using top-quality materials to ensure their durability and longevity. The brad-points on these drill bits are designed to produce precision holes, which is perfect for woodworkers who require accurate and clean cuts.

These drill bits come with a legend that provides all the necessary information about the product. The legend includes the cutting diameter (CD), decimal equivalent (DE), flute length (FL), overall length (OL), right-hand rotation (RHR), and left-hand rotation (LHR). This information is useful for woodworkers who need to know specific details about the drill bits they are using.

Overall, WL Fuller's brad-point drill bits are an excellent choice for woodworkers who require precision and accuracy. With their top-quality materials and precise design, these drill bits are sure to provide excellent results every time.

Pros

  • Made in the USA using top-quality materials
  • Brad-points produce precision holes
  • Legend provides all necessary information about the product

10. Safariland 6360 Duty Holster With Level 3 Retention

The Automatic Locking System (ALS) provides a secure hold on the weapon once it is holstered. Additionally, the Self-Locking System (SLS) Rotating Hood ensures that the weapon stays in place. With Level IV retention, the holster provides excellent security for the weapon. For added protection, the holster can also be fitted with an optional Sentry. The slim and compact design of the holster allows the weapon to be held close to the body, providing a comfortable fit for the user. When drawing the weapon, all releases are easily deactivated, allowing for a simple and straightforward straight-up draw.

This holster is a reliable and secure option for anyone in need of a holster for their weapon. The ALS and SLS systems make sure that the weapon stays in place, while the Level IV retention provides excellent security. The slim and compact design is comfortable to wear, and the straight-up draw is easy to execute. Overall, this holster is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable and secure holster for their weapon.

Pros

  • Automatic Locking System (ALS) secures weapon once holstered
  • Self-Locking System (SLS) Rotating Hood ensures weapon stays in place
  • Level IV Retention provides excellent security
  • Slim and compact design allows weapon to ride close to body
  • Straight up draw once all releases are deactivated

Best Grain For 40 S&W FAQs

How does the grain of 40 S&W ammo affect accuracy and recoil?

The grain of 40 S&W ammo can have a significant impact on both accuracy and recoil. In general, heavier grain bullets tend to have more recoil but also offer better penetration and stopping power. Lighter bullets, on the other hand, tend to have less recoil but may sacrifice some stopping power.

When it comes to accuracy, the grain of the bullet can also play a role. Heavier bullets tend to be more stable in flight, which can lead to greater accuracy at longer distances. However, lighter bullets may be more accurate at shorter ranges due to their flatter trajectory.

Ultimately, the grain of the bullet should be chosen based on the intended use of the firearm. For self-defense purposes, a heavier bullet may be preferable for its stopping power. For target shooting or competition, a lighter bullet may offer better accuracy. It's important to experiment with different grain sizes to find what works best for your specific needs and preferences.

Is there a significant difference in terminal ballistics between different grain weights in 40 S&W ammo?

Yes, there can be a significant difference in terminal ballistics between different grain weights in 40 S&W ammo. Terminal ballistics refers to the behavior of the bullet when it impacts a target, including factors such as penetration depth, expansion, and energy transfer. The weight of the bullet can affect all of these factors.

Generally speaking, heavier bullets tend to penetrate more deeply and retain more energy than lighter bullets. This can be beneficial in situations where the target is heavily armored or has a thick layer of clothing, as the added penetration can help ensure that the bullet reaches vital organs. On the other hand, lighter bullets may be better suited for use against unarmored targets, as they can cause more rapid incapacitation by transferring energy more quickly.

Of course, there are many other factors that can affect terminal ballistics beyond just bullet weight, such as bullet design, velocity, and the specific type of ammunition being used. It's important to choose the right ammunition for your specific needs and to understand the factors that can affect its performance in real-world situations.

What are some popular brands of 40 S&W ammunition with different grain options?

Some of the popular brands of 40 S&W ammunition with different grain options include Federal Premium, Winchester, Remington, Hornady, and Speer. These brands are known for their high-quality ammunition that is reliable, accurate, and effective.

Federal Premium offers a range of 40 S&W ammunition with different grain options, including the Hydra-Shok, HST, and American Eagle lines. Winchester also offers a variety of options, with bullets ranging from 135 to 180 grains. Remington's Golden Saber line is another popular choice, with bullets weighing between 155 and 180 grains.

Hornady's Critical Duty and Critical Defense lines are also popular among gun enthusiasts, with bullet weights ranging from 135 to 180 grains. Finally, Speer's Gold Dot line is known for its consistent performance and is available in a variety of weights, from 155 to 180 grains.

Overall, when choosing a brand of 40 S&W ammunition with different grain options, it's important to consider factors such as reliability, accuracy, and performance. Each of the above-mentioned brands has a reputation for quality, making them a safe choice for anyone looking for reliable ammunition.

What is the optimal grain weight for self-defense or target shooting with a 40 S&W handgun?

The optimal grain weight for self-defense or target shooting with a 40 S&W handgun can depend on several factors such as the specific handgun used, the shooter's personal preferences, and the purpose of the shooting. Generally, most shooters prefer a grain weight between 165 and 180 for self-defense purposes, as it provides the perfect balance between recoil, accuracy, and stopping power. While for target shooting, a 165-grain bullet is ideal as it provides a flatter trajectory and less recoil, making it easier for the shooter to maintain accuracy. However, it is important to note that the optimal grain weight may vary depending on the ammunition brand and the specific firearm being used. It is essential to experiment with different grain weights and loads to determine the best choice for your specific needs and preferences. Ultimately, the optimal grain weight for self-defense or target shooting with a 40 S&W handgun is subjective, and one should choose the grain weight that feels comfortable and effective for their specific situation.

What type of grain is recommended for 40 S&W ammunition?

The type of grain recommended for 40 S&W ammunition is typically 165 grain or 180 grain. The 40 S&W cartridge was developed in the early 1990s by Smith & Wesson and Winchester in response to the FBI's request for a more powerful handgun round. The 40 S&W cartridge is popular among law enforcement agencies and civilian shooters for its accuracy and stopping power. The recommended grain weight for this ammunition is important because it determines the bullet's velocity, energy, and trajectory. The heavier the bullet, the slower the velocity but the more energy it will deliver upon impact. On the other hand, lighter bullets tend to have higher velocities but less energy. Ultimately, the choice of grain weight depends on the shooter's specific needs and preferences, such as range, target type, and intended use.

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