The .40 S&W cartridge is a rimless cartridge that was developed in 1990 through a joint venture by Smith & Wesson and Winchester. The cartridge was designed for use specifically with law enforcement officers, though its use is not exclusive to them. In terms of performance, the .40 S&W cartridge boasts accuracy on par with the 9x19mm Parabellum cartridge and an energy rating that surpasses it.