Problems With the .40 Smith & Wesson Semi-Auto

Smith and Wesson is a noted leader in the firearms industry. The company offers several .40 caliber handgun models. From a manufacturing standpoint, the .40 caliber round makes a lot of sense. This is because the 40 caliber offers increased knockdown power compared to the 9mm, but utilizes the same sized frame. The Smith and Wesson has no specific issues with reliability or function that are not shared with all semi-automatic handguns.

  1. Failure to Feed

    • Failure to feed (FTF) occurs when the round does not seat properly and the slide does not close completely. The condition is referred to as being "out of battery" and the weapons are designed with safety features that prevent them from firing in this position. An FTF can be caused by a weak spring in the magazine, a weak extractor or "limp-wristing" the gun. Limp-wristing is leaving the wrist too loose when shooting.

    Failure to Extract

    • Failure to Extract (FTE) occurs when the extractor fails to remove the empty case from the breech, thus blocking the insertion of the new round. The FTE can be caused by a weak or improperly tensioned extractor, ammunition that has been reloaded with heavy powder loads and weak or bent shell casings.

    Vague Trigger Feel

    • Vague trigger feel occurs in many polymer-framed guns. Some of the triggers experience a lot of take-up travel, lacking the crisp feel of the triggers found on steel-framed guns. Any gunsmith can adjust the trigger and clean up its movement.

    Biting

    • Biting is what happens when the handgun is held with the weapon hand too high. A high-handed hold exposes the web of the weapon hand to the rearward movement of the slide. This can pinch, or " bite" the weapon hand. Smith and Wesson offers a .40 caliber round in many compact handguns. Hand placement is critical on these small handguns. Observe proper hand placement every time the weapon is fired to eliminate biting.