This is all manufacturer data from their respective websites for the .40 S&W cartridge. Ideally I would carry Win Ranger-T or Win Partition Gold, but this is not always available in my area. Assuming you could choose from the following commercial loads, which would you carry for self-defense (with a 4" barrel)? (all of the following bullet designs meet or exceed FBI standards for penetration, expansion, etc. {this per ammolab.com})

Muz = Muzzle  
FPS = Ft per sec/FP = Foot lbs

165gr          
Winchester Supreme SXT
Muz: 1130/468, 50yds: 1041/397  
Federal Hydra-Shok JHP
Muz: 980/350, 50yds: 930/315
Federal EFMJ
Muz: 1050/450, 50yds: 990/335
Speer Gold Dot
Muz: 1150/484, 50yds: 1040/.9
Remington Golden Saber
Muz: 1150/484, 50yds: 1040/396

180gr
Winchester Supreme SXT
Muz: 1010/408, 50yds: 954/364
Federal Hydra-Shok JHP (premium)
Muz: 990/390, 50yds: 930/345
Federal Hi-Shok JHP (classic)
Muz: 990/390, 50yds: 930/345
Speer Gold Dot
Muz: 1000/400, 50yds: 951/0.5
Remington Golden Saber
Muz: 1015/412, 50yds: 960/368

Edited: I included the Federal Hi-Shok Classic in the 180gr group because it is cheaper than the Premium 180gr Hydra-Shok and Federal states they share the same ballistics. To my knowledge they do not make a 180gr EFMJ round.

I personally carry either the 155gr Winchester Silver Tips or 155 Gold Dots. I try to keep a balance between the lighter loads for increased velocity and the heavier loads for penetration. I have found that the middle weight loads meet these requirements. I would definitely pick a load that you are comfortable shooting with and that works reliably in your pistol. As long as you are using a good quality brand of ammo I don't think you will be to disappointed with it. Just remember there is no "Magic Bullet" out there.

I carry the Remington Golden Sabre.  I like them and Keisler's had a very good deal. $14/50rds.

I tend to like the 165gr. Gold Dot and Golden Saber loads.

I use the CorBon 165gr JHP in my Glock 23.

But.....for self defense I would rather have my AR15 with me.



Rambosky

I use the CorBon 165gr JHP in my Glock 21.

But I prefer my Marlin Camp .45 Carbine (with the same ammo) for home defense.

THISISME

I had a problem with Jacket & Core seperation, when shooting though glass, with standard Rem Golden Sabers.

Remington now offers a "Bonded" Golden Saber that may perform better.

You will have to decide for yourself if your job or lifestyle makes it likely that you will have to shoot through auto glass.