Kahr has taken their design a step further and achieved a significant technological breakthrough in terms of packaging a powerful yet accurate self defense pistol in a platform that will easily fit within any pocket pistol size definition. The fact that the Kahr MK40 fits in an average size hand demonstrates how compact it really is.
The Below Information Has Been Provided From Our Gun Caliber Dictionary And Is Meant For Informational Purposes Only. It Is Not Intended to Describe The Unique Specifications For This Ammunition.
Designed by Winchester and introduced by Winchester and Smith & Wesson in 1990, the 40 S&W was designed as a "compromise" semiautomatic pistol cartridge that would offer more performance than the 9mm Luger (9x19)…but would produce less recoil and allow higher magazine capacity than the 45 ACP. Few compromises in the firearms world have ever worked as well. From a manufacturing standpoint many pistols designed for the 9mm could be re-engineered to handle the larger cartridge; in a short time it has become a standard issue in the law enforcement community. Using a .400-inch bullet of from 135 to 180 grains from a .850-inch cae, the .40 S&W produces up to 1205 fps, and although recoil is greater than the 9mm, it is easier to shoot than the 45 ACP, and its greater velocity and smaller bullet diameter aid penetration. — Craig Boddington
