.38 Super Ammo: A Comprehensive Guide

The .38 Super cartridge, introduced in 1929, offers unparalleled performance, making it a top choice among competitive shooters and collectors. Its unique characteristics and versatility make it an ideal choice for various applications.

History of .38 Super Ammunition

The .38 Super cartridge was designed by John Browning and introduced by Colt Firearms.

• 1929: Introduced to the market.
• 1930s: Gained popularity among competitive shooters.
• Present day: Popular among collectors and enthusiasts.

Benefits of .38 Super Ammo

Advantages

• High Velocity: Up to 1,300 feet per second.
• Flat Trajectory: Ideal for long-range shooting.
• Reliability: Consistent performance in various firearms platforms.
• Accuracy: Tighter shot groups due to its bottleneck design.
• Stopping Power: Effective for self-defense.

Types of .38 Super Ammunition

Ammo Variations

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

Firearms Compatible with .38 Super Ammo

Compatible Firearms

• Colt 1911: Classic semiautomatic pistol.
• STI International: High-performance pistols.
• Para USA: High-capacity pistols.

Choosing the Best .38 Super Ammo

Purchasing Considerations

• Consider Your Needs: Competitive shooting, self-defense or collecting?
• 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 Super ammo?

  Up to 150 yards.

• Q: Is .38 Super ammo suitable for hunting?

  No, better suited for competitive shooting and self-defense.

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

  No, they are not interchangeable.

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

  115-147 grains.

• Q: Is .38 Super ammo corrosive?

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

• Q: Can I reload .38 Super ammo?

  Yes, with proper equipment and expertise.

• Q: What is the difference between .38 Super and .38 Special?

  .38 Super has higher velocity and pressure.

Conclusion

The .38 Super cartridge offers unparalleled performance, making it an ideal choice for competitive shooting and collecting. Understanding its benefits, types and applications will help you choose the best ammo.