.38 Special vs 9mm Luger
A direct .38 Special vs 9mm Luger comparison reveals why the 9mm has largely supplanted the .38 Special in modern defensive applications. The 9mm Luger (124gr JHP at 1201 fps) delivers substantially higher energy, maintaining 337 ft-lbs at 50 yards compared to the .38 Special's (125gr JHP at 900 fps) 202 ft-lbs. The 9mm also demonstrates superior penetration characteristics, reaching 14.7-15.0 inches, well within FBI optimal standards, while the .38 Special achieves 11.9-12.1 inches, falling at the lower threshold of acceptable penetration. Recoil management favors the .38 Special, generating 2.19 ft-lbs of recoil energy versus the 9mm's 3.84 ft-lbs. The 9mm offers a significant cost advantage, with ammunition starting around $0.20 per round compared to $0.37 for .38 Special. Remember that performance varies considerably with different ammunition selections and firearm platforms, so these figures represent typical defensive loadings rather than definitive performance benchmarks.
Ammunition Parameters
.38 Special Parameters (Self-Defense Load)
9mm Luger Parameters (Self-Defense Load)
.38 Special vs 9mm Luger Ballistics Chart
Comparing bullet drop at various ranges between .38 Special and 9mm Luger.
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.38 Special vs 9mm Luger Energy Comparison
Comparing the muzzle energy and energy retention at various distances between .38 Special and 9mm Luger.
.38 Special vs 9mm Luger Bullet Penetration
Comparison of estimated penetration depth in 10% ballistic gel between .38 Special and 9mm Luger 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
.38 Special vs 9mm Luger Recoil
Comparing recoil energy and impulse between .38 Special and 9mm Luger.
.38 Special Recoil (Self-Defense Load)
9mm Luger 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
.38 Special vs 9mm Luger Velocity
Velocity decay from muzzle to 50 yards for .38 Special and 9mm Luger.
.38 Special vs 9mm Luger Average Cost
Comparing cost per round and training affordability between .38 Special and 9mm Luger.