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.38-55 Ammo Overview
The .38-55 cartridge originated in the late 19th century as a black powder rifle round. Designed for moderate power and accuracy, it offered versatility for hunting and target shooting. Today, .38-55 ammo remains popular among cowboy action shooters and collectors of classic firearms.
Why .38-55 Ammo Is a Top Choice
- Compatible with vintage lever-action rifles
- Moderate recoil for comfortable shooting
- Versatile for medium-sized game hunting
- Available in multiple bullet weights and types
- Affordable and widely available
Key Variants
.38-55 Winchester SP
Soft point variant ideal for controlled expansion on game animals.
.38-55 Winchester HP
Hollow point version for enhanced stopping power in self-defense scenarios.
.38-55 Lead Round Nose
Traditional bullet type suited for target shooting and practice.
Competitor Comparison Table
| Feature | .38-55 Ammo | .30-30 Winchester | .357 Magnum |
|---|---|---|---|
| MSRP | $0.70 - $1.20 per round | $0.80 - $1.50 per round | $0.60 - $1.00 per round |
| Capacity/Size | Medium rifle cartridge | Medium rifle cartridge | Revolver cartridge |
| Weight | ~255 grains bullet weight | ~170 grains bullet weight | 125-158 grains bullet weight |
| Optics-Ready | Yes (rifles) | Yes (rifles) | Generally no (handguns) |
| Trigger Type | Bolt or lever-action rifles | Bolt or lever-action rifles | Revolvers |
| Notable Pro | Balanced power and recoil | Widely available hunting caliber | High velocity and stopping power |
| Notable Con | Limited modern rifle options | Heavier recoil than .38-55 | Limited effective range |
Best Use Cases
- Classic rifle hunting
- Target shooting and cowboy action
- Medium game hunting
- Collecting vintage firearms
- Recreational plinking
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use .38-55 ammo in modern rifles?
.38-55 ammo works primarily in classic lever-action and single-shot rifles, but few modern rifles chamber this caliber.
What is the typical bullet weight for .38-55 ammo?
The common bullet weight is approximately 255 grains, balancing velocity and energy for medium-range shooting.
How does .38-55 compare to .30-30 Winchester?
.38-55 offers heavier bullets and milder recoil, while .30-30 is more widely used in modern hunting rifles.
