Decisions, decisions...

D

devolution

Inactive
Browning Hi-Power in .40S&W

*OR*

a gently-used Colt Delta Elite 10mm.

I've shot both of these and like them both. Can't afford both, though, so I'm soliciting first-hand ownership testimonials. I'm especially interested to know if anyone has converted their 10mm Delta into .40 (10mm ammo is EXPENSIVE!)

Also, given adequate cleaning and careful maintenance, what is the estimated life expectancy of either? (i.e. how many rounds until things start to crack, etc)
 
devolution-I own both and would suggest the Delta Elite. It is no longer available and will undoubtedly increase in value. If you want to shoot 40S&W, you can have a barrel fitted to your slide and fire it that way. If you handload you can work down your loads. You may need a recoil spring change and an adjusted magazine, maybe not. I personally know of a gunsmith here that fires 40S&W out of his standard 10mm barrel. He swears it won't cause any damage or pose a safety risk. I don't agree. I would go for a Bar-Sto or a stock Colt barrel in 40S&W to fit to your slide. Ask George or Brian about this stuff.

As for the Hi Power in 40S&W, it is still in production, I think, and easily available on the market. But if you want to step up to 10mm, I don't think you'll be able to with the BHP. I don't think there's enough slide mass to take the battering of the hotter round and if you go to an ultra heavy recoil spring it may start affecting reliability. Again, another question for the guys who do it everyday.

Personally, I have never liked the BHP in 40S&W. It never seemed to "feel" right to me. I would especially recommend the Colt if it was the earlier version. The later versions based on the 1991 frames just aren't the same quality. Good luck!

Steve
 
If you want a .40 pistol, I'd buy the .40. If you want a 10mm, buy that one. I wouldn't be considering trying to convert the 10mm to a .40, that seems to defeat the purpose. :)
 
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