GunsAmerica

Quick Look

The .38 Long Colt originated in the late 19th century for U.S. military revolvers. Designed as an improvement over the .38 Short Colt, it offered longer case length and moderate ballistic gains. Though obsolete in military service, it remains popular among collectors and cowboy action shooters.

Why It's a Top Choice

Authentic cartridge for vintage revolvers
Common in cowboy action shooting events
Low recoil with black powder or low-pressure loads
Compatible with antique and replica firearms
Historical significance in U.S. service history

Key Variants

Competitor Comparison Table

Feature	.38 Long Colt	.38 Special	.357 Magnum
MSRP	$40+ per 50 rds (limited)	$25-$35 per 50 rds	$30-$45 per 50 rds
Capacity/Size	6-shot revolvers	5–6-shot revolvers	5–7-shot revolvers
Weight	Light (antique frames)	Medium	Medium to heavy
Optics-Ready	No	Rarely	Rarely
Trigger Type	Single/Double Action	Single/Double Action	Single/Double Action
Notable Pro	Vintage authenticity	Easy availability	Superior stopping power
Notable Con	Low power, limited ammo supply	Moderate recoil	High recoil and flash

Best Use Cases

Historical firearms collecting
Cowboy action shooting matches
Black powder shooting practice
Reenactment and display pieces
Range nostalgia and training on antique revolvers

FAQs

What is the difference between .38 Long Colt and .38 Special?

.38 Special uses a longer case and higher pressure, offering more velocity and terminal performance than .38 Long Colt.

Can I shoot .38 Long Colt in a .38 Special revolver?

Generally no. Most .38 Special chambers exceed .38 Long Colt tolerances, leading to poor accuracy and potential safety issues.

How does .38 Long Colt perform for today’s shooters?

It offers mild recoil and historical value but is not recommended for modern self-defense or duty use.

38 LONG COLT for Sale