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Quick Look
The Smith & Wesson .38 Special debuted in 1898 as a rimmed revolver cartridge highly favored for its balance of power and controllability. Designed for personal defense and law enforcement, it offers reliable performance with mild recoil. Despite newer calibers, it remains popular among revolver enthusiasts and collectors.
Why It's a Top Choice
- Proven reliability with over a century of use
- Mild recoil suits new and experienced shooters
- Extensive aftermarket ammunition options
- Strong penetration with hollow-point loads
- Widely used in snub-nose and full-size revolvers
Key Variants
Standard Pressure
Classic load for target shooting and personal defense offering manageable recoil.
+P Loads
Higher pressure rounds designed for increased velocity and stopping power.
Lead Round Nose
Traditional bullet shape favored for accuracy and range training.
Hollow Point
Expanding bullets enhancing terminal performance for self-defense use cases.
Competitor Comparison Table
| Feature | .38 Special | 9mm Luger | .357 Magnum |
|---|---|---|---|
| MSRP | $0.40–$1.50 per round | $0.25–$0.50 per round | $1.00–$2.50 per round |
| Capacity/Size | Typically 5-6 rounds (revolver) | 10-17 rounds (semi-auto) | 5-6 rounds (revolver) |
| Weight | Mild recoil and manageable for revolvers | Lower recoil, lighter pistols | Higher recoil, heavier frame requirements |
| Optics-Ready | Dependent on revolver model | Common on modern pistols | Less common, mostly revolvers |
| Trigger Type | Double/Single action revolver triggers | Striker-fired, DA/SA | Double/Single action revolver triggers |
| Notable Pro | Soft recoil and long-standing reputation | High capacity and modern design | Greater power and effectiveness at range |
| Notable Con | Lower capacity, slower reload | More recoil than .38 Special | Higher recoil, heavier firearms |
Best Use Cases
- Self-defense and carry revolvers
- Law enforcement backup weapons
- Target practice and plinking
- Recreational shooting and training
- Collector interest and historic arms
FAQs
Can I use .38 Special ammo in a .357 Magnum revolver?
Yes, .38 Special rounds safely fit and function in .357 Magnum revolvers but not vice versa due to pressure differences.
What is the typical velocity of .38 Special +P rounds?
.38 Special +P rounds generally achieve bullet velocities between 900 and 1000 feet per second, depending on bullet weight and load.
How does .38 Special compare to 9mm for self-defense?
.38 Special offers softer recoil and strong penetration; 9mm usually provides higher capacity in semi-automatic platforms.
