Selected Handgun Detail

Smith & Wesson
Model SW40VE
Smith & Wesson Pistol SW40VE .40 S&W Variant-1
Scale To:
Gun Dimensions Width:1.3-in
Length:7.25-in Height:5.6-in
Barrel:4-in Weight:24.4-oz
Variant 1 of 2
Gun Rankings
  • Power Factor (180 grain bullet)180000
  • Recoil Factor (180 grain bullet)9.22 ft-lb
  • Total Capacity15 rounds
  • ConcealabilityGood
  • Defense Factor91%
Gun Specifications
Type:Pistol
Caliber:.40 S&W
Action:recoil operated semi-automatic
Trigger:striker single-action (SA)
Safety:no manual safety
Magazine:14-round
Frame:black polymer
Grip:integrated polymer
Sights:3-dot fixed
Notes:second-generation Sigma series
Manufacturer
Smith & Wesson
More Info
About the Gun

The SW40VE is a full-size, polymer-framed, striker-fired pistol of conventional double-stack configuration. It features a black polymer frame with refined texturing and ergonomics compared with the first-generation Sigma. Standard examples pair this with a satin stainless steel slide; the Allied Forces variant uses a black-coated (Melonite) stainless slide. Later production examples include a proprietary accessory rail. The trigger is a pre-set striker design with an improved pull relative to the earlier F models.

Production

Production ran from 1999 through 2012.

Market value
Last updated: 8/19/2026

MSRP at production was around $350–$430. Current used market value for examples in good to very good condition ranges $150–$250.

Cartridge Specifications
Cartridge: .40 Smith & Wesson
Alias: N/A
More Info
Ballistics for This Gun
Selected Bullet Mass:180 grains
MV:1000 ft/sec ME:400 ft-lbs
Analysis

Smith & Wesson introduced the SW40VE in 1999 as the “Value Enhanced” second-generation Sigma in .40 S&W. It addressed reliability and trigger complaints from the original F-series while incorporating design changes made after the Glock patent settlement. Key updates included a redesigned grip, a lighter and smoother trigger, an enlarged ejection port, and standardization on a 4-inch barrel. The Allied Forces version, introduced in 2007, retained these features but substituted a black Melonite-coated slide and was supplied under overseas military and police contracts. The model remained in production as an affordable polymer striker-fired option until the line transitioned to the further-refined SDVE series.

User Rating
2 User Ratings
1 User Comments
User Comments

5 of 5 Stars
Easy to carry
By docpsych34 on 16 Jan 2026
I've carried this gun for several years. Feels better in your hand than a Glock 22. Really nice. I love it. It does kick, as do most 40 cal. guns. All around for the money this is a hard carry gun to beat.