The .41 Action Express (AE) is a handgun cartridge developed in 1986 by Evan Whildin of Action Arms. It was designed to provide improved stopping power compared to the 9x19mm Parabellum while maintaining comparable size and recoil. The .41 AE cartridge features a unique rebated rim, which matches the diameter of the 9mm cartridge base, allowing it to fit in 9mm firearms with a simple barrel and magazine swap.
The cartridge typically fires a .410-inch diameter bullet at velocities around 1,200 feet per second, delivering higher energy on target. It was intended for semi-automatic pistols and carbines, with the Israeli Military Industries (IMI) Jericho 941 being one of the notable platforms.
Despite its innovative design and intended benefits, the .41 AE did not gain widespread popularity, overshadowed by the advent of other high-performance calibers like the .40 S&W. Consequently, ammunition and firearms chambered in .41 AE are relatively rare today.
Use cases for the .41 AE included self-defense, law enforcement, and sporting purposes. However, due to its niche status, it's largely a collector's item now.