Old Dog here, I swipe the safety off everything...whether it has one or not
As to the short .40, from the spent brass I see at the outdoor public range, it's still kicking.
I know the Border Patrol down here uses it.
On the other hand, the city PD uses 9mm in their M&Ps.
Our Deputy Sheriffs carry 1911's in .45ACP.
Regards,
Greg