It is a centerfire revolver cartridge that was developed in the late 19th century. It was designed for use in various Colt revolvers, particularly in the Colt New Line revolver series. The cartridge was originally introduced in 1875 as a black powder round, and later versions were adapted for smokeless powder.
Featuresπ
The .38 Short Colt cartridge has several distinctive features:
βοΈ The cartridge typically fires a lead round-nose or flat-point bullet. These bullets were common in the era when the cartridge was developed.
βοΈ It was originally designed for black powder, and later versions were adapted for smokeless powder. However, even with smokeless powder, the cartridge’s power is relatively low compared to modern ammunition.
βοΈ This cartridge holds historical significance as it was used in various Colt revolvers, particularly in the Colt New Line series. It was part of the transition from black powder to smokeless powder cartridges.
βοΈ If you have a firearm chambered in a .38 Short Colt, it’s crucial to ensure that you’re using the correct ammunition. Using incorrect ammunition can be dangerous and potentially damaging to both the firearm and the shooter.
This particular variant boasts a 125-grain lead round nose bullet, carefully engineered to handle the brisk recoil of these robust vintage revolvers and lever guns. In terms of specifications, this variant rocks a trusty lead round nose (LRN) bullet, weighing in at 125 grains. The brass cartridge case brings a touch of quality to the equation, while the muzzle velocity clocks in at a respectable 730 ft/s. The energy generated is a solid 148 ft-lbs, adding some oomph to your shots. Moreover, Remington's Kleanbore priming puts rust and corrosion worries to rest, showing some love for your barrel. Whether you're a competitive shooter or simply love hitting targets with precision, this ammo brings a touch of history to your range days.
If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.
Benefitsπ₯
While the .38 Short Colt cartridge is considered relatively obsolete and has limited applications in modern contexts, there are a few potential benefits or historical aspects associated with it:
βοΈ Collectibility: Due to its historical significance, firearms chambered for .38 Short Colt and original cartridges can be of interest to collectors and enthusiasts of antique firearms.
βοΈ Low Recoil: The low power of this cartridge results in minimal recoil when fired. This can make it suitable for those who are sensitive to recoil or for introducing new shooters to firearms.
βοΈ Firearm Restoration: If you’re involved in restoring antique firearms, having access to original or replica such ammunition can enhance the authenticity of your restoration project.
βοΈ Educational Purposes: The cartridge can be used as an educational tool to illustrate the development of ammunition technology over time. It can be a part of discussions on the evolution of firearms and their historical context.
Possibilities with 777 powderπ£
Using modern smokeless powder like Hodgdon Triple Seven (777) in the .38 Short Colt cartridge could potentially increase its performance compared to the original black powder or early smokeless powder loadings. Here are some possibilities and considerations:
π£ Increased Power: Hodgdon Triple Seven is a black powder substitute designed to replicate the performance of black powder while offering cleaner burning characteristics. Using it in the .38 Short Colt could result in increased velocity and energy compared to the original black powder loadings.
π£ Pressure Concerns: This cartridge was not designed to handle the higher pressures generated by modern smokeless powders. Before attempting to load it with Hodgdon Triple Seven, you would need to consult reputable reloading manuals to determine safe load data. You might need to limit the powder charge to ensure pressures remain within safe limits for older firearms.
π£ Firearm Compatibility: Not all vintage firearms chambered in .38 Short Colt are suitable for use with modern smokeless powders. Some older firearms may not be able to handle the increased pressures and stresses generated by these powders. It’s essential to consult with experienced gunsmiths or experts before attempting any modifications.
π£ Accuracy and Reliability: Modifying a cartridge with modern powder can potentially affect accuracy and reliability. You would need to conduct thorough testing to ensure that the modified cartridges function reliably in your specific firearm.
π£ Collectibility: If you’re using vintage firearms chambered in .38 Short Colt, modifying them for modern powder could affect their historical and collectible value. Many collectors prefer to keep firearms in their original condition.
π£ Legal Considerations: Reloading ammunition requires adherence to local laws and regulations. Always ensure you are compliant with relevant laws and regulations before attempting to reload ammunition.
π In summary, while it’s possible to experiment with modern powders like Hodgdon Triple Seven in .38 Short Colt cartridges, caution, research, and consultation with experts are essential due to safety concerns and potential impacts on historical firearms.
The new Remington Performance Wheelgun line is perfect for shooters looking for reliable and consistent ammo. This 38 Short Colt load features a 125-grain lead round nose bullet that can handle the rapid short recoil of these powerful old revolvers and lever action rifles. Our findings show that this ammo is also reliable when it comes to feeding on the field, as it is built with a factory-fresh brass case. Finally, this ammunition is topped off with Remington’s Kleanbore priming, which prevents rust and corrosion from forming inside the barrel. So don’t miss your chance to get your hands on this top-of-the-line ammunition β pick up a box or two of this ammo today!
Pros:
High-quality components
Kleanbore priming will not rust or corrode barrels
How to make 38 Short Colt brass from 38 Special?π οΈ
Converting .38 Special brass to .38 Short Colt brass involves resizing and trimming the cases to the correct length. However, it’s important to note that this process requires specialized equipment and knowledge of reloading procedures. Here’s a general outline of the process:
πͺ Materials Needed:
βοΈ .38 Special brass;
βοΈ Reloading press;
βοΈ .38 Short Colt resizing die;
βοΈ Case trimming tool;
βοΈ Calipers;
βοΈ Lubricant;
βοΈ Safety glasses.
π§βπ§ Steps:
β‘οΈ Inspect Brass:Β
Ensure that the .38 Special brass you intend to convert is in good condition, without cracks, splits, or other defects. Safety should always be your top priority.
β‘οΈ Lubricate:Β
Apply lubricant to the cases. This helps in the resizing process and prevents sticking in the resizing die.
β‘οΈ Resize:Β
Set up your reloading press with the .38 Short Colt resizing die. Adjust the die according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Run each .38 Special case through the resizing die to reshape it to the .38 Short Colt dimensions.
β‘οΈ Trim:Β
After resizing, measure the case length using calipers. The correct case length for the .38 Short Colt is shorter than that of the .38 Special. Trim the cases to the correct length using a case-trimming tool. Be precise, as consistency in case length is important for reliable performance.
β‘οΈ Deburr and Chamfer:
After trimming, use a deburring tool to remove any sharp edges from the mouth of the case. Additionally, chamfer the inside of the case mouth slightly to help guide bullets during reloading.
β‘οΈ Clean:
Clean the resized and trimmed cases to remove any lubricant or debris. This step is crucial for ensuring safe and reliable reloading.
FAQπ€
How to reload it?
βοΈ Reloading .38 Short Colt ammunition involves several steps to ensure safety and accuracy. Please note that reloading ammunition requires proper equipment, knowledge, and adherence to safety guidelines. Here’s a general outline of the process:
π€¨ No, you should not shoot .38 Short Colt ammunition in a firearm chambered for .38 Long Colt. While the two cartridges share a similar name and caliber, they are distinct and not interchangeable. Here’s why:
β Case Length: The most significant difference between the two cartridges is the case length. The .38 Short Colt has a shorter case length compared to the .38 Long Colt. Attempting to load and fire .38 Short Colt ammunition in a .38 Long Colt chamber could result in improper head spacing and potentially dangerous chamber pressures.
β Pressure Concerns: The .38 Short Colt cartridge was originally designed for lower pressures, as it was used in black powder firearms of the late 19th century. On the other hand, the .38 Long Colt cartridge, while also a relatively low-pressure cartridge by modern standards, was designed for the specific chamber dimensions of firearms chambered for it.
β Firearm Compatibility: Modern firearms chambered for .38 Long Colt are typically designed to handle the longer case length and higher pressures of the .38 Long Colt cartridge. Attempting to fire .38 Short Colt ammunition in a firearm chambered for .38 Long Colt could potentially damage the firearm and pose a safety risk to the shooter.
β Always make sure you’re using the correct ammunition for your firearm. Mixing and matching different cartridges can have serious consequences. If you have any doubts or questions about ammunition compatibility, consult your firearm manufacturer or a knowledgeable gunsmith.
What is the difference between a 38 Short Colt and a 38 Special?
π₯ The .38 Short Colt and .38 Special are two distinct revolver cartridges, each with its own characteristics and historical context. Here are the key differences between the two:
β³οΈ Case Length and Design: The .38 Short Colt cartridge is shorter in overall length compared to the .38 Special. It was originally designed for use in black powder revolvers and has a relatively low power. The .38 Special cartridge has a longer case length than the .38 Short Colt. It was developed as a higher-powered cartridge for law enforcement and self-defense use. It has a greater powder capacity and can generate more energy than the .38 Short Colt.
β³οΈ Power and Ballistics: The .38 Short Colt cartridge was designed for black powder, and even when adapted for smokeless powder, its power is relatively low. It fires smaller bullets at lower velocities and generates less energy. The .38 Special cartridge is more powerful than the .38 Short Colt. It’s available in a range of bullet weights and velocities, making it more versatile for different applications, including self-defense, target shooting, and law enforcement.
β³οΈ Historical Context: The .38 Short Colt was developed in the late 19th century for use in Colt revolvers. It was a popular choice for concealed carry revolvers of the era. The .38 Special was introduced later and gained popularity as a law enforcement and self-defense cartridge. It has been widely used in both revolvers and some semi-automatic pistols.
β³οΈ Modern Relevance: The .38 Short Colt is largely considered obsolete in modern contexts due to its limited power and availability.The .38 Special remains relevant today and is still widely used for self-defense, target shooting, and other shooting sports. It has also led to the development of other cartridges, such as the .357 Magnum, which is based on a lengthened .38 Special case.
π In summary, while both the .38 Short Colt and .38 Special share the same general caliber, they are different cartridges with distinct historical backgrounds, power levels, and intended uses. The .38 Short Colt is mostly of historical interest, while the .38 Special continues to be a relevant and versatile cartridge in the modern firearm landscape.
Are there different types of this ammo?
π The .38 Short Colt cartridge is an older and relatively obscure ammunition type, and its availability and variety are limited compared to more popular cartridges. Here are some potential variations you might find:
πΆ Bullet Types: Lead Round Nose (LRN) is a common bullet type for older cartridges like the .38 Short Colt. LRN bullets are simple to lead projectiles with a rounded nose. They’re often used for target shooting and plinking.
πΆ Bullet Weights: The bullet weight for .38 Short Colt cartridges is typically around 125 grains, but variations might exist depending on the manufacturer and specific load.
πΆ Velocity and Power Levels: This ammo is generally lower in power compared to more modern cartridges. However, you might find variations in velocity and pressure among different manufacturers or loads.
πΆ Reloads and Special Loads: Given the limited availability of factory-produced .38 Short Colt ammunition, some enthusiasts might choose to reload their cartridges using specialized equipment and components. This could lead to custom loads tailored to specific needs, but this is less common due to the cartridge’s historical nature.
What has more kick .38 Short Colt or a 9mm Luger?
π₯ The recoil, or “kick,” experienced when firing a firearm depends on various factors, including the cartridge’s power, the weight of the firearm, the design of the firearm, and the shooter’s stance and grip. Here’s a general comparison:
π£ The .38 Short Colt is an older cartridge designed for black powder revolvers of the late 19th century. It has relatively low power compared to modern cartridges. The recoil generated by the .38 Short Colt is generally mild due to its lower pressure and typically lighter bullets.
π£ The 9mm Luger is a modern and popular handgun cartridge used in various semi-automatic pistols. It’s known for its higher pressure and velocity compared to the .38 Short Colt. As a result, the 9mm typically generates more recoil than the .38 Short Colt.
π It’s important to note that perceived recoil can vary from person to person. Factors such as the shooter’s experience level, physical condition, and firearm grip play a significant role in how recoil is felt. Additionally, the specific load being used (standard pressure, +P, etc.) can significantly influence recoil. If you’re concerned about recoil, it’s a good idea to try out different loads and firearms to find what’s most comfortable and manageable for you.
Is it good for self-defense?
π€¨ No, the .38 Short Colt cartridge is generally not considered suitable for self-defense in modern contexts. There are several reasons why it is not recommended for self-defense:
β° Low Power: This cartridge was originally designed for black powder revolvers of the late 19th century. Even with modern smokeless powder adaptations, its power and ballistic performance are inadequate for effective self-defense by today’s standards.
β° Limited Stopping Power: The cartridge’s relatively low velocity and energy levels make it less effective at stopping threats quickly and reliably.
β° Bullet Selection: The availability of suitable self-defense bullets for the .38 Short Colt may be limited. Modern self-defense ammunition is designed with advanced bullet technology to maximize stopping power and minimize over-penetration.
β° Firearm Compatibility: Many firearms chambered for .38 Short Colt are older and may not be as reliable or accurate as more modern firearms. Additionally, these firearms might not be designed to handle the stresses of firing modern ammunition.
β° Better Alternatives: There are numerous modern self-defense cartridges available that offer superior performance, such as 9mm, .40 S&W, .45 ACP, and others. These cartridges are designed for self-defense purposes and have a track record of effectiveness.
Conclusionπ
When searching for the best 38 Short Colt ammo, it is important to consider various factors. The type of gun you are using, as well as the purpose of the ammunition, are both important considerations. In this article, we have highlighted some of the top-rated brands and types of ammo on the market today. We hope that our buyerβs guide has helped you in your search for the perfect rounds for your needs. Thanks for reading!π€ π
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If we’re discussing genuine .38 Short Colt rounds loaded to historical specifications, then yes, they should be safe to use. However, if we’re referring to .38 Short Colt rounds that are hand-loaded by individuals for USPSA competitions, it’s a different story. These loads often exceed standard pressure levels, resembling 9mm or .357 Magnum pressures, and are intended for use in .357 Magnum revolvers. It’s crucial to be aware of the specific ammunition you’re using and whether it’s within safe parameters for your firearm.
Quenton Walker
7 months ago
I’ve been researching the optimal charge for the .38 Short Colt using Unique powder. I’d appreciate any comments, questions, or suggestions from those with experience in reloading for the .38 Short Colt using Unique powder. Your insights would be valuable as I fine-tune my reloading recipe.
I’m acquainted with an individual who has been successfully using Unique powder for reloading .38 Short Colt rounds. He also incorporates Federal magnum primers into his loads. While I don’t have the exact details of his recipe, I can attest that he’s a highly skilled shooter who operates at a top-tier level. He graciously allowed me to shoot his 627 revolver on a few occasions, and I was impressed by how soft and manageable the recoil was. This demonstrates that achieving favorable results.
From what I recall, 38 Short Colts with around 4.4 grains of W231 powder and seated 158-grain bullets. He mentioned not observing any indications of excessive pressure. However, he wasn’t entirely satisfied with the accuracy of those loads, so he was considering increasing the velocity.
Grub
7 months ago
I recently got my hands on a .38 Short Colt ammo and I’m curious whether I can fire them safely through either my M605 or M66 revolvers. What are your thoughts on this matter?
Apart from the length difference, the dimensions of a .38 cal Short Colt round mirror those of a .38 Special or even a .357 Mag round. This similarity allows them to fit into any presently manufactured revolver of the .38 caliber type. While there might be more considerations, two come to mind. Firstly, with sustained use of .38 Short Colt rounds, there’s a potential issue where burned powder residue could accumulate in the section of the cylinder bore in front of the case’s end. This accumulation might disrupt the smooth firing of subsequent .38 Special or .357 Mag rounds. The second matter is the potential for a “squib” round to not fully exit the barrel, leading to a potentially hazardous situation with a subsequent shot. This is a more serious concern. However, I’d exercise caution when considering the use of .38 Short Colt ammo with a pistol-caliber rifle.
Esotopes
7 months ago
I stumbled upon a bag of brass at a garage sale, a total of 200 pieces for just $5. I’m curious if there are any reloaders out there who have experience with this cartridge. If so, I’d greatly appreciate any valuable insights or advice you might have to share.
I’ve been reloading these rounds for my 8-shot revolver, specifically a 627 model, to use them in moon clips and similar applications. However, my use case requires a higher power factor than what’s typically employed in cowboy action shooting. This is due to my use of pointed bullets and other considerations. One important aspect to note is that the .38 Short Colt case possesses the same volume as a 9mm case. This means that when using a fast powder (such as one might use for a regular .38 Special load), caution is advised. Overall, these considerations have influenced my reloading choices and the specific loads I’m using for my revolver.
I purchased a pair of Ruger Montado revolvers only to find that their ejector was too short for .38 Special rounds. After trying the .38 Long Colt, which was still slightly too long, I finally remembered the .38 Short Colt option. These rounds worked perfectly, and I’ve loaded them well above the required 60 power factor (PF) minimum. It’s somewhat reminiscent of a 9mm load but with the addition of a rim. (Do you all recall the 9mm Federal?) In all honesty, unless you’re planning on acquiring more brass and engaging in regular shooting with it, the cost of loading $5.00 worth of brass might not be justifiable.
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Can I use 38 Short Colt ammunition to fire through any standard .38 revolver?
If we’re discussing genuine .38 Short Colt rounds loaded to historical specifications, then yes, they should be safe to use. However, if we’re referring to .38 Short Colt rounds that are hand-loaded by individuals for USPSA competitions, it’s a different story. These loads often exceed standard pressure levels, resembling 9mm or .357 Magnum pressures, and are intended for use in .357 Magnum revolvers. It’s crucial to be aware of the specific ammunition you’re using and whether it’s within safe parameters for your firearm.
I’ve been researching the optimal charge for the .38 Short Colt using Unique powder. I’d appreciate any comments, questions, or suggestions from those with experience in reloading for the .38 Short Colt using Unique powder. Your insights would be valuable as I fine-tune my reloading recipe.
I’m acquainted with an individual who has been successfully using Unique powder for reloading .38 Short Colt rounds. He also incorporates Federal magnum primers into his loads. While I don’t have the exact details of his recipe, I can attest that he’s a highly skilled shooter who operates at a top-tier level. He graciously allowed me to shoot his 627 revolver on a few occasions, and I was impressed by how soft and manageable the recoil was. This demonstrates that achieving favorable results.
From what I recall, 38 Short Colts with around 4.4 grains of W231 powder and seated 158-grain bullets. He mentioned not observing any indications of excessive pressure. However, he wasn’t entirely satisfied with the accuracy of those loads, so he was considering increasing the velocity.
I recently got my hands on a .38 Short Colt ammo and I’m curious whether I can fire them safely through either my M605 or M66 revolvers. What are your thoughts on this matter?
Apart from the length difference, the dimensions of a .38 cal Short Colt round mirror those of a .38 Special or even a .357 Mag round. This similarity allows them to fit into any presently manufactured revolver of the .38 caliber type. While there might be more considerations, two come to mind. Firstly, with sustained use of .38 Short Colt rounds, there’s a potential issue where burned powder residue could accumulate in the section of the cylinder bore in front of the case’s end. This accumulation might disrupt the smooth firing of subsequent .38 Special or .357 Mag rounds. The second matter is the potential for a “squib” round to not fully exit the barrel, leading to a potentially hazardous situation with a subsequent shot. This is a more serious concern. However, I’d exercise caution when considering the use of .38 Short Colt ammo with a pistol-caliber rifle.
I stumbled upon a bag of brass at a garage sale, a total of 200 pieces for just $5. I’m curious if there are any reloaders out there who have experience with this cartridge. If so, I’d greatly appreciate any valuable insights or advice you might have to share.
I’ve been reloading these rounds for my 8-shot revolver, specifically a 627 model, to use them in moon clips and similar applications. However, my use case requires a higher power factor than what’s typically employed in cowboy action shooting. This is due to my use of pointed bullets and other considerations. One important aspect to note is that the .38 Short Colt case possesses the same volume as a 9mm case. This means that when using a fast powder (such as one might use for a regular .38 Special load), caution is advised. Overall, these considerations have influenced my reloading choices and the specific loads I’m using for my revolver.
I purchased a pair of Ruger Montado revolvers only to find that their ejector was too short for .38 Special rounds. After trying the .38 Long Colt, which was still slightly too long, I finally remembered the .38 Short Colt option. These rounds worked perfectly, and I’ve loaded them well above the required 60 power factor (PF) minimum. It’s somewhat reminiscent of a 9mm load but with the addition of a rim. (Do you all recall the 9mm Federal?) In all honesty, unless you’re planning on acquiring more brass and engaging in regular shooting with it, the cost of loading $5.00 worth of brass might not be justifiable.