Smith & Wesson SD40 VE
Smith & Wesson · Pistol · In Production · 2012
Also known as: SD40VE, SD40 VE, SD40
Overview
The Smith & Wesson SD40 VE (Self Defense, Value Enhanced) is a full-size striker-fired semi-automatic pistol chambered in .40 S&W, introduced in 2012 alongside its 9mm sibling, the SD9 VE. Sharing the same frame, slide profile, and control layout as the SD9 VE, the SD40 VE offers increased stopping power with its .40 S&W chambering while maintaining the budget-friendly price point that defines the SD VE series. The pistol features a 4-inch stainless steel barrel, 14+1 capacity, a lightweight polymer frame, and a stainless steel slide with a two-tone satin finish. Like the SD9 VE, it incorporates Smith & Wesson's Self Defense Trigger with an integrated safety lever providing a consistent trigger pull. Weighing 22.6 ounces unloaded, the SD40 VE includes front and rear white dot dovetail sights, front and rear slide serrations, an integral Picatinny accessory rail, and an aggressive textured grip. The SD40 VE serves as an affordable alternative to premium .40 S&W pistols such as the Glock 22 and Glock 23.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 641 g (22.6 oz) |
| Overall Length | 182.9 mm (7.20") |
| Barrel Length | 101.6 mm (4.00") |
| Height | 139.7 mm (5.50") |
| Width | 32.8 mm (1.29") |
| Action Type | Short Recoil |
| Firing Mechanism | Striker Fired |
| Trigger Type | Double Action Only |
| Trigger Pull | 36 N (8.1 lbf) |
| Magazine Capacity | 14 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 308 m/s (1010 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 546 J (403 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 50 m (55 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 1800 m (1968 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 406 mm (15.98") |
| Number of Grooves | 6 |
| Frame Material | Polymer |
| Slide Material | Stainless Steel |
| Barrel Material | Stainless Steel |
| Finish | Satin Stainless |
Calibers
- .40 S&W · primary — also known as .40 Smith & Wesson, 10x22mm
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Self Defense Trigger, Striker Safety, Sear Release Disconnect
- Features: Self Defense Trigger, White Dot Front Sight, Two Dot Rear Sight, Front Rear Slide Serrations, Picatinny Rail, Textured Grip, Constant Action Trigger
Base model
Production
Production years: 2012-present
Sold alongside the SD9 VE as part of the SD VE value line
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Notes
The SD40 VE is mechanically identical to the SD9 VE except for the barrel, recoil spring assembly, and magazines, which are engineered for the higher-pressure .40 S&W cartridge. The .40 S&W chambering reduces magazine capacity from 16 to 14 rounds due to the larger cartridge diameter. The trigger pull is the same heavy approximately 8-pound pull as the 9mm variant, and the same aftermarket trigger spring kits are available to reduce it. The SD40 VE was designed as a budget competitor to the Glock 22, offering similar capacity and performance at a significantly lower price. A 10+1 restricted-capacity version is available for states with magazine capacity limits.
Background
The SD40 VE represents Smith & Wesson's commitment to offering affordable defensive firearms across multiple calibers. While the .40 S&W cartridge has faced declining market share as law enforcement agencies increasingly transition back to 9mm, the SD40 VE continues to find buyers among those who prefer the harder-hitting .40 caliber round, particularly at its budget-friendly price point. The pistol serves as a direct competitor to the Glock 22 at roughly half the price.