.357 Mag vs .38 Special
In this .357 Magnum vs .38 Special comparison, the ballistic differences between these related cartridges become immediately apparent. The .357 Magnum (125gr JHP at 1500 fps) generates more than double the energy of the .38 Special (125gr JHP at 900 fps), maintaining 479 ft-lbs at 50 yards versus just 202 ft-lbs for the .38 Special. Penetration testing shows the .357 Magnum reaching 18.0-18.6 inches, exceeding FBI optimal standards, while the .38 Special achieves 11.9-12.1 inches, which falls at the lower end of acceptable defensive penetration. The recoil difference is substantial, with the .357 Magnum producing over four times the recoil energy (9.11 ft-lbs vs 2.19 ft-lbs). Cost considerations favor the .38 Special, with ammunition starting around $0.37 per round compared to $0.52 for .357 Magnum. Remember that performance can vary significantly with different loads and firearms, so these figures represent typical defensive loadings rather than definitive benchmarks.
Ammunition Parameters
.357 Mag Parameters (Self-Defense Load)
.38 Special Parameters (Self-Defense Load)
.357 Mag vs .38 Special Ballistics Chart
Comparing bullet drop at various ranges between .357 Mag and .38 Special.
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.357 Mag vs .38 Special Energy Comparison
Comparing the muzzle energy and energy retention at various distances between .357 Mag and .38 Special.
.357 Mag vs .38 Special Bullet Penetration
Comparison of estimated penetration depth in 10% ballistic gel between .357 Mag and .38 Special at self-defense distances.
Self-Defense Ammunition Penetration
Notes:
- FBI standard for optimal penetration is 12-18 inches in 10% ballistics gel
- Our penetration data is calculated using mathematical models based on sectional density, velocity, and expansion factors. While not actual gel tests, our calculations have been validated against manufacturer test data and provide reliable estimates for comparison purposes.
- Actual results may vary depending on clothing barriers and other factors
.357 Mag vs .38 Special Recoil
Comparing recoil energy and impulse between .357 Mag and .38 Special.
.357 Mag Recoil (Self-Defense Load)
.38 Special Recoil (Self-Defense Load)
Notes:
- Recoil calculations based on bullet weight, velocity, powder charge, and firearm weight
- Recoil energy indicates the felt force when firing the weapon
- Recoil impulse represents momentum transfer during firing
- Actual felt recoil can vary based on grip, stance, and firearm design
.357 Mag vs .38 Special Velocity
Velocity decay from muzzle to 50 yards for .357 Mag and .38 Special.
.357 Mag vs .38 Special Average Cost
Comparing cost per round and training affordability between .357 Mag and .38 Special.