What is 38 Special Ammo?🟢
It is a rimmed, centerfire cartridge designed for revolver handguns. Originally introduced by Smith & Wesson in 1898, it has since become one of the most popular revolver cartridges in the world. Its name is somewhat misleading as the bullet diameter is actually .357 inches, with the ‘.38’ referring to the approximate diameter of the loaded brass case. This cartridge is well-known for its balance between recoil and effectiveness, making it a preferred choice for both self-defence and target shooting.
Please watch this video to learn more information📺
Types🔴
| Standard Pressure Lead Round Nose (LRN): This traditional ammunition typically weighs 158 grains and has a muzzle velocity of around 770 feet per second (fps). It’s a popular choice for target shooting due to its low recoil. | +P Jacketed Hollow Point (JHP): This is a higher-pressure round designed for self-defence. It typically has a bullet weight of 110-158 grains and a muzzle velocity ranging from 900 to 1,000 fps. The hollow point design facilitates expansion upon impact, increasing stopping power. |
| Standard Pressure Full Metal Jacket (FMJ): With a bullet weight of 130 grains and a muzzle velocity of approximately 800 fps, this ammo is commonly used for target practice and competition shooting. | +P Lead Semi-Wadcutter Hollow Point (LSWCHP): Known as the “FBI Load”, this round is often used for self-defence due to its effective balance between penetration and expansion. It typically has a 158-grain bullet with a muzzle velocity of around 900 fps. |
Advantages🟡
It offers several advantages that contribute to its ongoing popularity among firearm enthusiasts. Here are some key benefits:
- ⭐ Manageable Recoil: These rounds are known for their manageable recoil. This feature makes them an excellent choice for novice shooters who are still adjusting to the kickback of a firearm, as well as for experienced shooters looking for comfort during prolonged shooting sessions.
- ⭐ Versatility: It is a versatile round that can be used in a variety of applications, from target shooting to self-defence. Its compatibility with different firearms and the availability of various load types enhance its adaptability.
- ⭐ High Accuracy: Due to their moderate muzzle velocities, these rounds are highly accurate. This characteristic, coupled with the manageable recoil, often results in improved aim and precision, making it a preferred choice for target shooting.
- ⭐ Reloading Potential: The brass cases are durable and can often be reused several times. This trait makes them ideal for reloading, which can be a cost-effective approach for frequent shooters.
- ⭐ Availability: This ammo is widely available and relatively affordable. This ease of access ensures that users can readily find and purchase ammunition, be it for immediate use or stockpiling.
- ⭐ Effective Self-Defense Round: With the right load it can be an effective self-defence round, offering a good balance between stopping power and recoil.
Applications🔵
- 💠 Self-Defence: Its reliability, combined with its manageable recoil, makes it a preferred choice for self-defence. High-pressure +P rounds are particularly effective, offering a balance between stopping power and penetration.
- 💠 Sport Shooting: The accuracy and manageable recoil make it a frequent choice for sport shooting and competition.
- 💠 Target Practice: Its high accuracy and relatively low cost make it ideal for target practice. It’s an excellent round for honing shooting skills without breaking the bank.
- 💠 Hunting Small Game: While not a primary use, these rounds can be used for hunting small game at close range. Careful shot placement and the use of appropriate loads (like the hollow points) can result in effective performance.
- 💠 Home Defense: It is a viable option for home defence. While it may lack the firepower of larger calibres, its manageable recoil, combined with the effective stopping power of self-defence loads, makes it a reasonable choice for a home defence handgun.
- 💠 Law Enforcement: It held a long-standing position as the cartridge of choice for many law enforcement agencies before the adoption of semi-automatic pistols. Even today, some officers carry .38 Special revolvers as backup firearms due to their reliability and effectiveness.
38 Special Ammo Review | Top-20 38 Special Ammo
#1 Winchester USA HANDGUN 38 Ammo Special 130 grain
In the realm of dependable handgun ammunition, a legacy manufacturer steps forward with their time-tested solution. With a profound understanding of the user’s needs, this seasoned brand offers a solution that ensures durability and consistency. One particularly popular choice from their array is this ammo, cherished by shooting enthusiasts seeking quality for their range training and target practice.
Amidst the evolving landscape of ammunition options, this manufacturer’s experience shines through. Their dedication to quality materials and production processes has resulted in ammo that stands the test of time. This ammunition’s composition, including its full metal jacket and thoughtfully designed centre, aids in a seamless draw and accurate firing. When seeking ammo that doesn’t compromise on lethality, this option ensures a potent punch for your trusty handgun. Regardless of the specific firearm you favour, the consistent performance of this ammunition enriches your shooting experience.
#2 Sig Sauer Elite Performance 38 Special Ammo 124 grain
Imagine a world where your training ammunition seamlessly aligns with your carry rounds. This innovative solution by a renowned manufacturer brings this concept to life. Designed to replicate the ballistics of their acclaimed Sig V-Crown defence ammunition, the Sig FMJ promises consistent and cost-effective performance, whether you’re honing your skills or stepping onto the competition stage.
In the realm of ammunition innovation, the Sig stands as a bridge between practice and real-world scenarios. Engineered with meticulous attention, it mirrors the characteristics of SIG’s trusted defence rounds. The inclusion of reliable primers and the same clean-burning propellants further solidify its premium-level performance. The copper-jacketed bullets, known for their durability, maintain their integrity upon impact, offering a familiar recoil, point-of-impact, and energy to ensure a reliable training experience. Be it for practice sessions or competitive endeavours, this ammo steps up to the plate with confidence.
#3 Hornady Critical Defense 38 Special Ammo +P 110 Grain
In the realm of personal defence ammunition, a notable advancement has emerged – the Critical Defense Rifle series. Engineered to redefine threat-stopping power, this ammunition brings a new level of confidence to the realm of self-protection.
When it comes to personal safety, this ammunition sets a new benchmark. At the heart of this innovation is the FTX, a groundbreaking bullet design that pushes the boundaries of hollow point performance. Its patented Flex Tip technology not only enhances expansion but also eliminates the risk of clogging when passing through clothing or barriers. The inclusion of bright cartridge cases offers increased visibility in low-light conditions, while the utilization of low-flash propellants ensures that night vision remains uncompromised. Each round demonstrates unwavering consistency and reliability, attributes crucial for peace of mind in critical situations.
#4 Remington UMC Handgun 38 Special Ammo 130 Grain
In moments that demand reliability and performance, Remington UMC Centerfire Handgun Ammunition emerges as a steadfast choice. Crafted for high-volume shooting scenarios, this ammunition embodies the ideal blend of value, performance, and quality. For those seeking a solution tailored to high-volume shooting needs, this ammunition delivers on its promise. This ammo strikes a balance between budget-consciousness and optimal performance, ensuring that quantity never compromises quality. Its thoughtful design includes a waterproofed case mouth and primer, securing maximum reliability even in challenging conditions. With cases plated in nickel, oxidation concerns are mitigated, facilitating smooth feeding and extraction. Moreover, each bullet is meticulously treated with powders that reduce muzzle flash, enhancing the overall shooting experience.
#5 Hornady Critical Defense 38 Special Ammo 90 Grain
For those who prioritize personal security, the Hornady Critical Defense Lite Handgun Ammo stands as a beacon of reliability. This ammunition shines across various settings, ensuring optimum performance when it matters most. Evolving from its initial offering, the lineup now includes 44 Special and 45 Colt bullets, expanding its versatility. At the heart of this ammo lies the patented FTX bullet, renowned for its reliable expansion even when encountering different clothing materials, including leather. Notably, the 45 Colt bullets are optimized for short-barreled platforms, delivering a harmonious blend of power and precision.
This ammo redefines reliability and adaptability in personal defence. With an expanded lineup and proven FTX bullet technology, it offers a dependable solution for various environments, ensuring confidence and peace of mind for those seeking ammunition that performs when it matters most.
#6 CCI Blazer Brass 38 Special Ammo 125 grain
CCI Ammunition Blazer Brass emerges as a harmonious blend of reliability, practicality, and economy. A true companion for target shooting endeavours, this ammunition is designed to offer consistent performance and easy reloading.
In the pursuit of reliable target shooting performance, it takes centre stage. Crafted with attention to detail, it boasts reloadable brass cases, ensuring longevity and cost-effectiveness. The inclusion of reliable primers and clean-burning propellants cements its reputation as a dependable choice for accuracy and consistency. With standard boxer-type primers and primer pockets, the reloading process is streamlined, making it an excellent option for those exploring the world of reloading. An affordable solution, it allows shooters to engage in extensive target practice without breaking the bank.
#7 Federal Premium Centerfire Handgun 38 Special Ammo 130 grain
Delve into the world of precision and reliability with Federal Premium American Eagle Centerfire Handgun Ammunition. This ammunition not only ensures superior accuracy but also addresses the often-overlooked aspect of noise reduction without compromising performance.
For those who value quality and precision, it stands as a testament to meticulous craftsmanship. Beyond its exceptional accuracy, it offers a unique advantage – the reduction of shooting noise. This innovative feature, coupled with hand-selected propellant, contributes to a cleaner, more refined shooting experience. Each bullet is treated with the utmost care, undergoing rigorous profiling and weighing to ensure consistent results. The ammunition’s commitment to clean-burning powders transforms your firearm into a cleaner, more efficient weapon. With Federal primers and brass, the foundation of reliability is solidified, allowing you to shoot with skill and confidence, knowing that every pull of the trigger is met with precision.
#8 Sig Sauer V-Crown 38 Special Ammo 125 grain
For seekers of superior personal defence ammunition, the Sig Sauer Elite Performance series presents an unparalleled choice. At its core, the V-Crown Jacketed Hollow Point design showcases innovation and precision. The unique design boasts a secondary hollow point cavity, complemented by strategically engineered V-shaped jacket skives and scores. This synergy ensures controlled, uniform expansion across various distances and velocities. Moreover, a distinctive toothed cannelure halfway up the shank enhances jacket and core locking, resulting in exceptional structural integrity, maximum weight retention, and unparalleled terminal performance. The Techni-Crom coated brass cases not only enhance lubricity but also bestow superior corrosion resistance and reliable feeding and extraction. Each calibre loading is meticulously matched to the core temper of the V-Crown bullet, underscoring Sig Sauer’s commitment to maximum terminal performance.
#9 Winchester SUPER-X HANDGUN 38 Special Ammo 110 grain
Step into a legacy of trust and reliability with Winchester Handgun Ammunition, a name synonymous with decades of proven performance when it matters the most. Embodying a time-tested design, this ammunition offers the Power to Defend, providing a steadfast solution for personal safety.
This ammunition stands as a symbol of consistency and trust. The Silvertip Jacketed Hollow Point design, with its storied history, remains true to its heritage, delivering a time-proven solution for stopping power. The ammunition’s efficacy is bolstered by an engineered jacket profile, meticulously crafted to ensure reliable functionality, precise accuracy, and consistent expansion. With each shot, it embraces its legacy of dependability, catering to those who prioritize safety and effectiveness.
#10 Winchester USA HANDGUN 38 Special Ammo 125 grain
Step into a world of unwavering dependability with Winchester USA Handgun Ammunition, a testament to precision and quality. Crafted from premium components, this ammunition stands as a beacon of reliability, offering penetrating and consistent performance that can be trusted in critical moments.
For those who seek nothing but the best in their ammunition, it emerges as a pinnacle of quality. Designed with meticulous attention, this +P Ammo is a premium choice for individuals prioritizing top-tier performance in self-defence scenarios. Its jacketed hollow point design harnesses maximum stopping power, exemplifying its effectiveness when personal safety is paramount. With a muzzle velocity of 945 fps, these rounds offer the accuracy needed for precise field engagement. The hallmark of consistent accuracy has made this ammunition a staple among law enforcement professionals, attesting to its reliability and performance.
#11 Hornady Critical Defense 38 Special Ammo 110 Grain
Hornady Critical Defense emerges as a pinnacle of excellence. Anchored by the revolutionary FTX Bullet Technology, this ammunition showcases the epitome of hollow point design. The patented Flex Tip not only facilitates reliable expansion but eliminates the notorious issue of clogging when passing through clothing and barriers. In low-light situations, the enhanced visibility of the cartridge cases enhances chamber checks, complemented by low-flash propellants that preserve night vision.
It signifies a leap forward in personal defence capabilities. Through its innovative bullet technology, defence-centred design, and commitment to reliability, this ammunition stands ready to empower defenders with superior performance and unyielding dependability.
#12 Winchester USA HANDGUN 38 Special Ammo 150 grain
Standing as a beacon of excellence, Winchester USA White Box Ammunition is a symbol of reliability and value. With a legacy backed by generations, this ammunition offers a steadfast solution for a wide spectrum of shooting endeavours. The 150-grain Lead Round Nose variant exemplifies this dedication to excellence. Crafted with meticulous attention, each round reflects consistent performance and high-quality composition.
#13 Federal Premium Centerfire Handgun 38 Special Ammo 110 grain
Federal Premium Personal Defense Ammunition stands as the epitome of trust in defence circles, lauded by security agencies for its remarkable efficiency and quality. At the heart of its superiority lies the ability to deliver controlled expansion, ensuring maximum effectiveness upon impact. What truly sets it apart is its unique penetration through barriers, bestowing it with unmatched penetration ability. The dynamic combination of Hydra-Shok and expanding full metal jacket components confer upon these bullets a distinctive edge over competitors. This ammunition’s variant boasts significant recoil reduction, exceptional accuracy, and remarkable overall ballistic performance. The notched copper jacket of the bullet initiates and controls expansion, while the centre-post hollow-point design ensures reliable expansion, rendering it a steadfast choice for self-defence scenarios.
#14 Winchester SUPER-X HANDGUN 38 Special Ammo 158 grain
Since its inception in 1922, Winchester Super Ammunition has consistently delivered exceptional quality and unparalleled performance, catering to the diverse needs of hunters and shooters. The +P 158-grain variant epitomizes this tradition of excellence. With a focus on personal defence, this ammunition encompasses the essence of versatility, serving equally well on the range and in critical self-defence scenarios. The Hollow Point design offers distinct advantages, punching clean holes in paper targets while demonstrating effectiveness in personal defence situations. The ammunition’s brass cartridge case material ensures durability, while it’s muzzle velocity and energy deliver consistent and reliable performance.
#15 Winchester DEFENDER HANDGUN 38 Special +P Ammo 130 grain
Prepare for unparalleled personal defence with Winchester Defender Ammunition, meticulously engineered to deliver exceptional stopping power and performance as defined by the rigorous FBI test protocol. When the stakes are high, trust in the innovative prowess of it to provide the utmost protection.
This ammo sets a new standard in personal defence, designed to maximize terminal ballistics for uncompromising stopping power. Crafted with precision, the innovative bonding process seamlessly welds the jacket to the lead core, enhancing penetration and weight retention. The 130-grain Bonded Jacketed Hollow Point design ensures consistent and effective expansion, expanding up to 1.5 times its original diameter for maximum stopping power. The notched jacket, preprogrammed to expand into six uniform segments, guarantees tactical reliability with every shot. With a muzzle velocity of 950 ft/s and energy of 260 ft-lbs, it stands as a steadfast choice for personal defence scenarios.
#16 Hornady American Gunner 38 Special Ammo 125 Grain
Hornady’s commitment to quality shines through in the American Gunner Ammunition, featuring high-quality primers and cases that ensure consistency and dependability. The acronym “XTP” signifies eXtreme Terminal Performance, a testament to the superior ballistic prowess and accuracy that every shot delivers. With its eXtreme Terminal Performance bullets and commitment to quality components, this ammunition enhances your shooting endeavours, whether in pursuit of accuracy, hunting success, or personal defence.
#17 Federal Premium Centerfire Handgun 38 Special +P Ammo 130 grain
Step into the realm of personal defence confidence with Federal Premium’s HST ammunition. Engineered for optimal performance in critical situations, this ammunition embodies consistent expansion, controlled penetration, and superior terminal effectiveness. Federal Premium’s commitment to personal safety shines through in the design o ammunition. The specially crafted hollow point ensures reliable and consistent expansion, producing the desired penetration without risking over-penetration. With a focus on function and reliability, the bullet’s nose profile, nickel-plated case, and high-performance primer culminate in a seamless performance, particularly in semi-automatic handguns.
#18 CCI Ammunition Blazer Aluminum 38 Special +P Ammo 158 grain
Blazer Ammunition is a steadfast companion for shooters seeking consistent performance and reliability. With a diverse range of handgun rounds tailored to meet various shooting needs, it ensures that each trigger pull delivers the satisfaction of hitting the mark. While it may not cater to all shooting disciplines, this ammo remains a valuable choice for those looking to refine their shooting skills without breaking the bank. Elevate your shooting experience with ammunition and embark on a journey of safe, accurate, and enjoyable shooting sessions.
#19 Hornady Custom 38 Special Ammo 158 Grain
Discover the precision and knockdown power that discerning handgun shooters seek, embodied in Hornady Custom pistol ammunition. Whether it’s the renowned Hornady extreme terminal performance bullet Hornady Custom ammunition promises a combination of accuracy and stopping power that stands above the rest. This brand takes pride in its commitment to quality, exemplified by the meticulous hand inspection of every round before packaging. The fusion of hand-loaded precision and factory production results in Hornady Custom ammunition, granting shooters and hunters the advantage of handcrafted accuracy in a factory load.
#20 Liberty Civil Defense 38 Special Ammo 50 grain
Liberty Ammunition welcomed the .38 Special into its esteemed Civil Defense lineup back in 2014, marking a significant leap in personal defence capabilities. Distinguished by its cutting-edge construction, it stands apart from competitors, boasting a solid copper bullet design that deviates from the conventional lead composition.
It is tailored for personal and home defence scenarios. This ammunition excels in delivering unmatched stopping power and barrier penetration, complemented by reduced recoil and impeccable match-grade accuracy. Sporting an exceptional and unique design, it earns the distinction of being the world’s fastest and most lightweight lead-free self-defence ammunition available today, weighing a mere 50 grains.
Reloading🟤
Reloading ammunition is the process of assembling cartridges by hand, using various components such as brass casings, primers, gunpowder, and bullets. It’s a practice commonly undertaken by shooting enthusiasts, competitive shooters, and hunters who seek greater control over the quality and performance of their ammunition. Reloading offers several benefits, but it requires careful attention to detail and adherence to safety guidelines.
Advantages🔥
Reloading your own ammunition can be a satisfying and cost-effective procedure once you have the necessary equipment and knowledge. Here are some benefits:
- 💡 Cost-effective: Reloading can be significantly cheaper than buying new ammunition. It lowers the costs by reusing the major components, which account for the majority of the ammunition’s price.
- 💡 Custom Loads: Reloading allows you to customize your load to fit your particular needs. You can adjust the powder charge, projectile type, and even the overall length of the cartridge.
- 💡 Improved Accuracy: Custom loading your ammunition to match your specific firearm can result in improved accuracy. This is particularly beneficial for competitive shooting or hunting.
- 💡 Availability: During periods of high demand, certain types of ammunition can be hard to find. Reloading your own ensures you always have a supply on hand.
- 💡 Reduced Waste: Reloading your own ammunition is environmentally friendly. It allows for the reuse of casings and reduces the amount of waste generated by discarded ammunition.
Many shooters find the process of reloading to be a rewarding hobby in itself, adding another dimension to the shooting experience.
Bullet Parts📏
A .38 Special ammunition bullet cartridge is composed of four main parts:
- Case: The case, often made of brass, is the container for all the other components of the cartridge. It’s typically reusable, which makes it a prime candidate for reloading.
- Primer: Located at the base of the case, the primer is a small, sensitive compound that ignites when struck by the firing pin. This ignition sparks the gunpowder within the case.
- Gunpowder: This is the propellant that, when ignited by the primer, creates a high-pressure gas which drives the bullet down the barrel of the firearm.
- Bullet: The bullet is the part of the cartridge that gets fired out of the gun. It’s made of a lead alloy, often encased in a copper jacket. The bullet’s weight, shape, and material can all affect the trajectory and performance of the round.
These components all work together to function properly. When the firing pin of the firearm strikes the primer, it ignites the gunpowder. The resulting rapid expansion of gases propels the bullet forward and out of the barrel.
Reloading Equipment🛠️
When it comes to reloading your own ammunition, having the right equipment is crucial. Here’s a detailed list of the necessary tools and supplies:
- ✔️ Reloading Press: This is the centrepiece of your reloading setup. The press is used to deprime and resize the casing, seat the bullet, and crimp the case around the bullet.
- ✔️ Dies for .38 Special: These are crucial in the reloading process. They’re used to resize the casing, remove the spent primer, and seat and crimp the bullet.
- ✔️ Shell Holder: This holds the casing in place during the reloading process.
- Reloading Scale: This is used to measure the exact amount of powder for each round. It’s important that this is accurate to ensure safety and consistency.
- ✔️ Powder Measure: This tool dispenses a consistent amount of powder for each round.
- Powder Funnel: A small funnel is used to guide the powder into the casing without spilling.
- ✔️ Primer Tool: This tool seats the new primer into the casing. Some presses have this included, but not all.
- ✔️ Callipers: These are used to measure the overall length of the finished round to ensure it meets specifications.
- ✔️ Bullet Puller: A bullet puller is a tool that can be used to disassemble a loaded round. This is handy if you make a mistake during the reloading process.
- ✔️ Reloading Manual: While not a tool, a reloading manual is a critical resource. It provides the specifications for different loads, including the type and amount of powder to use.
By having all the necessary equipment and understanding how to use them, you can efficiently and safely reload your own ammunition.
Step-by-Step Guide🔔
- ⚪ Inspection: Begin by inspecting the used brass casings for any cracks or deformities. Any damaged casings should be discarded.
- ⚪ Cleaning: Next, clean the brass casings. A tumbler filled with cleaning media is the most common method.
- ⚪ Resizing and Depriming: The cleaned casings then go into the reloading press, where a die resizes the casing back to its factory dimensions and punches out the old primer.
- ⚪ Priming: A new primer is inserted into the casing using a priming tool.
- ⚪ Powder Charge: The next step is to add the powder. It’s crucial to use the correct type and amount of powder, as recommended in reloading manuals.
- ⚪ Bullet Seating: Finally, the bullet is seated into the casing using a die in the reloading press. The bullet needs to be seated to the correct depth, which is also specified in reloading manuals.
Throughout this process, it’s essential to maintain attention to detail. Double-check your measurements for the powder charge and bullet seating depth, and always follow the safety guidelines. You’ll soon find that reloading your own ammo not only saves money but also allows you to customize your ammo to your exact preferences. As always, safety is paramount when reloading, so ensure you understand each step thoroughly before proceeding.
Safety Rules📛
When reloading ammunition, there are several key safety rules to follow to ensure the process is both safe and effective:
- Use the Correct Equipment: Always use equipment specifically designed for reloading ammunition. This includes the reloading press, dies, and other tools.
- Follow Load Data Accurately: Always use a reputable reloading manual and follow the load data precisely. Be aware that different brands of bullets, even if they are the same weight, can have different load data.
- Wear Protective Gear: Always wear protective eyewear and gloves during the reloading process. This will protect you from potential injury from primer or powder sparks.
- Work in a Well-Lit and Clean Area: Make sure you have proper lighting in your work area to avoid mistakes. Also, keep your workspace clean and free of spilt powder or bullet fragments.
- Avoid Distractions: Reloading requires focus and attention to detail. Avoid distractions while working on your ammunition to prevent potential errors.
- Don’t Mix Powders: Using the wrong type or mixing different types of gunpowder can be extremely dangerous. Always check that you’re using the correct type of powder.
- Store Powder and Primers Properly: Store your powder and primers separately in cool, dry places away from heat sources and out of the reach of children.
- Inspect Your Ammo: Always inspect your finished rounds for any potential problems. Any rounds that look odd or different from the others should be set aside and not used.
- Don’t Rush: Rushing can lead to mistakes and potential accidents. Take your time to ensure each step is performed correctly.
Remember, safety should always be your top priority when reloading your own ammunition. Following these safety rules will help ensure that you produce high-quality, reliable ammunition while staying safe in the process.
Please watch this video to learn more information📺
FAQ❓
Conclusion⚪
The .38 Special ammunition is an enduring classic in the realm of firearms. Its manageable recoil, high accuracy, versatility, and reloading potential make it a suitable choice for a host of applications, be it self-defence, sport shooting, target practice, hunting small game, home defence, or law enforcement. The wide availability and relative affordability of this ammo further add to its appeal. Despite the advent of more technologically advanced cartridges, it holds its ground as a reliable and effective round, a testament to its well-engineered design and time-tested performance.
Tags: #Best #38 Special Ammo #Review #Remington #Winchester #Self #Homme #Defense #Hornady
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38 special and ammo my grandpa left for me
Is .38 Special suitable for revolver competitions?
🔰 Yes, .38 Special is commonly used in revolver shooting competitions, especially in categories where higher-powered cartridges like the .357 Magnum are not allowed.
This is a cartridge I favor after the .357, particularly when I require reduced recoil.
Greetings! Can I shoot a .38 Special +P in a firearm chambered for a .38 special?
Yes, you can generally shoot .38 Special +P ammunition in a firearm chambered for .38 Special, but there are a few important considerations to keep in mind.
.38 Special +P (plus P) ammunition is loaded to higher pressures and velocities than standard .38 Special ammunition. Many modern .38 Special firearms are designed to handle the increased pressures of +P ammunition, but it’s essential to verify if your specific firearm is rated for +P use. Here’s what you should do:
🚩 Check the Firearm Manual: The first step is to consult your firearm’s owner’s manual. It will provide information about whether your firearm is rated for +P ammunition. If the manual states that +P ammunition is safe to use, you should be good to go.
🚩 Inspect the Firearm: Examine your firearm for any markings or indications that it is +P rated. Some manufacturers may mark the firearm’s frame or barrel to indicate its compatibility with +P ammunition.
🚩 Consider Recoil and Wear: While using +P ammunition in a firearm rated for it is generally safe, it does produce more recoil and can cause more wear and tear on the firearm over time. Be prepared for increased felt recoil, and keep in mind that using +P ammunition extensively may lead to faster wear on internal components.
🚩 Practice and Testing: If your firearm is rated for +P, you should still practice shooting with +P ammunition to become familiar with its increased recoil and performance characteristics. Additionally, consider testing various brands of +P ammunition to find the one that performs best in your firearm.
🚩 Personal Comfort: Lastly, consider your personal comfort level with the increased recoil of +P ammunition. If you find the recoil to be too harsh or uncomfortable, you might prefer using standard .38 Special ammunition.
Remember that safety should always be your top priority. If you’re unsure about using +P ammunition in your firearm, it’s best to consult with a knowledgeable gunsmith or a certified firearms instructor before proceeding.
Thank you for reloading the info. The step-by-step guide was clear and concise, making the reloading process seem approachable even for those new to the practice. Safety tips were emphasized throughout, which I appreciate. This article has certainly motivated me to explore reloading as a way to customize my ammunition.
Thank you for your kind words 👍
This article will certainly enlighten newcomers to the field. I have been actively involved in reloading since the 1970s and participated in PPC competitions during the 1990s and early 2000s, favoring the 38 SPCL and Red Dot – which paired exceptionally well with the 148 HBWC. Just this past weekend, I had the chance to teach my adult son the art of reloading. We started with a single-stage process to ensure he gains a solid understanding before progressing to more advanced stages at a later time.
Yeah, interesting. The Lee Universal Decapper is my preferred tool as it allows me to decamp before cleaning. This method helps avoid any possible damage to the sizing die, especially when gathering range brass. Post-decapping, I prefer to clean near the flash hole. My tool of choice for priming is the Lee Case Primer. It’s gentle on the hands and offers a comfortable grip. However, refilling the tray can sometimes be a bit tricky.
Reloading has been my hobby for many years, and I’ve always enjoyed using a single-stage press. However, I started to experience hand fatigue during the case prep phase, which diminished my enjoyment somewhat. That changed when I acquired the Lyman Case Prep Xpress, a fantastic device that has rekindled my passion for reloading.
Hello. I found some ammo that was presented to me a few years ago. How long is 38 special ammo good for?
The lifespan of .38 Special ammunition largely depends on the conditions under which it is stored.
✔️ If kept in a cool, dry, and stable environment, ammunition can last for decades without losing its effectiveness. Some reports even suggest that ammo stored properly has been successfully fired after 50 years or more. However, it’s crucial to regularly inspect older ammunition for signs of corrosion or any other damage.
❌ If the rounds appear to be compromised, it is safer not to use them. For optimal performance and safety, many shooters prefer to use ammunition within 10 years of its manufacture date, although this is more a rule of thumb than a strict guideline. Remember, proper storage practices are key: store ammo in a climate-controlled, moisture-free environment, and in a suitable ammo container.