The Smith & Wesson SD VE Line

by
posted on January 26, 2022
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
Smith & Wesson SDVE

Smith & Wesson introduced its polymer-framed, semi-automatic SD VE pistols in the summer of 2012. The striker-fired guns were a big success and continue to be a popular choice among enthusiasts. Chambered in either 9 mm NATO or .40 S&W, they are a budget friendly option that manages to retain the company’s famed reliability and performance, yet provide an ideal solution for home and self-defense.

The pistols have a distinctive, two-tone finish. The slide is stainless steel with serrations up front and at the rear for solid grip, even when wearing gloves or with sweaty palms. Aggressive texturing on the front of the pistol’s grip and backstrap, along with a finger locator, maintain control and improve controllability.

Laser or weapon light mounting is possible, thanks to a Picatinny rail on the dustcover. All members of the SD VE line have a 4" barrel, regardless of chambering. Frames are all businesslike black and there is no manual safety.

In the 9 mm NATO line, there are five versions from which to choose. One model sports Hi Viz sights, there’s a California compliant version, one for owners in Massachusetts, a Low Capacity model and the Standard—with a magazine capacity of 16 cartridges. Overall length of SD9 VEs measures 7.2" and weights, depending on model, run from 22.4 ozs. to 24 ozs.. Retail pricing starts at $406 and runs up to $455 for the Hi Viz version with fiber-optic sights.

Smith & Wesson SD40 VEs are currently available in four different configurations—with Hi Viz Sights, Low Capacity, Standard Capacity and California compliant. Magazine capacities are 10 cartridges, with the exception of the Standard Capacity model, which ships with 14-rounders.

Overall length is identical in the .40 S&W-chambered pistols, as is the range of weights. MSRPs are also the same.

Latest

smith and wesson mp 22 right-side view on table indoor shooting range
smith and wesson mp 22 right-side view on table indoor shooting range

Rifleman Review: Smith & Wesson M&P 22 Magnum

One of Smith & Wesson's recent additions to its M&P handgun line is the M&P 22 Magnum, and there's a lot more going on in this gun, technologically, than it appears at first glance.

New For 2025: Beretta BRX1 Ranch

Beretta has expanded its BRX1 straight-pull action into a "ranch rifle" configuration, providing a handy, lightweight platform that still includes some of the groundbreaking features of the original BRX1 rifle.

Ruger Buys Anderson Manufacturing

Ruger announced on July 1 it has acquired all assets of Anderson Manufacturing, a recent top 10 producer of firearms in the U.S.

Favorite Firearms: Anticipating Answers

Everyone has a favorite gun, but not many have a story quite like the one from NRA member Jim Schollhammer.

Rifleman Report: Safe Passage

While the phrase “tools of the trade” may refer to specific items that a worker uses to ply his or her vocation, it could just as easily be a reference to the firearms, knives and other everyday carry, or EDC, gear that the average citizen uses to ensure his or her safe passage through the course of an uncertain, sometimes dangerous, daily existence.

I Have This Old Gun: Star Model 1914 Auto Pistol

The Spanish/Basque city of Eibar is one of Europe’s great arms-manufacturing centers, with a history in gunmaking dating back to the 1500s.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.