---

.38 Special Ammo: A Comprehensive Guide

The .38 Special cartridge, introduced in 1898, remains popular among revolver enthusiasts, self-defense practitioners and hunters. Its reliability, manageable recoil and adequate stopping power make it an ideal choice.

History of .38 Special Ammunition

The .38 Special cartridge was designed by Smith & Wesson for their Model 1899 revolver.

• 1898: Introduced to the market.
• Early 20th century: Adopted by law enforcement agencies.
• Present day: Popular among concealed carry permit holders and recreational shooters.

Benefits of .38 Special Ammo

Advantages

• Reliability: Consistent performance in various firearms platforms.
• Low Recoil: Manageable for most shooters.
• Affordability: Competitive pricing compared to similar calibers.
• Stopping Power: Effective for self-defense.
• Versatility: Suitable for hunting small game.

Types of .38 Special Ammunition

Ammo Variations

• Full Metal Jacket (FMJ): Suitable for target shooting and training.
• Jacketed Hollow Point (JHP): Effective for self-defense.
• Lead Round Nose (LRN): Ideal for recreational shooting.
• Total Metal Jacket (TMJ): Reduced lead exposure.
• +P and +P+: High-pressure loads for increased velocity.

Firearms Compatible with .38 Special Ammo

Compatible Firearms

• Smith & Wesson Model 10: Classic revolver.
• Ruger GP100: Popular revolver.
• Colt Official Police: Vintage revolver.
• Taurus Model 85: Compact revolver.

Choosing the Best .38 Special Ammo

Purchasing Considerations

• Consider Your Needs: Self-defense, hunting or recreational shooting?
• Brand Reputation: Research reputable manufacturers.
• Ammo Weight: Choose appropriate grain weight.
• Bullet Type: Select suitable bullet design.

Safety Considerations

Safety First

• Proper Handling: Always handle firearms safely.
• Eye Protection: Wear protective eyewear.
• Hearing Protection: Use ear protection.
• Storage: Store ammunition safely and securely.

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQs

• Q: What is the effective range of .38 Special ammo?

  Up to 100 yards.

• Q: Is .38 Special ammo suitable for hunting large game?

  No, better suited for small game.

• Q: Can I use .38 Special ammo in my 9mm firearm?

  No, they are not interchangeable.

• Q: What are the typical grain weights for .38 Special ammo?

  110-158 grains.

• Q: Is .38 Special ammo corrosive?

  No, modern .38 Special ammo is non-corrosive.

• Q: What is the difference between +P and +P+ ammo?

  +P+ ammo has higher pressure and velocity than +P ammo.

• Q: Can I use .38 Special ammo in my .357 Magnum firearm?

  Yes, but not vice versa.

Conclusion

The .38 Special cartridge offers unparalleled versatility, making it an ideal choice for self-defense, hunting and recreational shooting. Understanding its benefits, types and applications will help you choose the best ammo.