.38 Special Prices
| PRODUCT | DEALER | QUANTITY | PRICE | SHIPPING | TOTAL PRICE | PRICE/RD |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sentry Ammo | 1000 | $359.00 | $12.99 | $371.99 |
$0.37
1000 Rounds
|
|
| SG Ammo | 1000 | $409.80 | $0.00 | $409.80 |
$0.41
1000 Rounds
|
|
| Sentry Ammo | 1000 | $399.00 | $19.99 | $418.99 |
$0.42
1000 Rounds
|
|
| Sentry Ammo | 1000 | $419.49 | $22.99 | $442.48 |
$0.44
1000 Rounds
|
|
| Black Basin Outdoors | 1000 | $435.00 | $21.99 | $456.99 |
$0.46
1000 Rounds
|
|
| Sentry Ammo | 1000 | $445.35 | $22.99 | $468.34 |
$0.47
1000 Rounds
|
|
| Black Basin Outdoors | 1000 | $485.00 | $50.99 | $535.99 |
$0.54
1000 Rounds
|
|
| Sentry Ammo | 1000 | $517.28 | $22.99 | $540.27 |
$0.54
1000 Rounds
|
|
| Lucky Gunner | 1000 | $525.00 | $21.73 | $546.73 |
$0.55
1000 Rounds
|
|
| Fast Ammo | 1000 | $509.00 | $47.99 | $556.99 |
$0.56
1000 Rounds
|
|
| Sentry Ammo | 50 | $30.78 | $11.99 | $42.77 |
$0.86
50 Rounds
|
|
| Lucky Gunner | 50 | $29.00 | $17.15 | $46.15 |
$0.92
50 Rounds
|
.38 Special Overview
The .38 Special stands as one of the most enduring and versatile handgun cartridges ever developed. Introduced by Smith & Wesson in 1898, it set the standard for reliable, accurate handgun performance throughout the 20th century. Today, it remains a popular choice for both new and experienced shooters, prized for its mild recoil and excellent accuracy potential.
While no longer the primary choice for law enforcement, the .38 Special continues to excel in several roles. Its moderate power, manageable recoil, and ability to be fired in any .357 Magnum revolver make it an excellent option for training, recreational shooting, and self-defense. Modern ammunition developments have enhanced its performance while maintaining the cartridge's characteristic shootability and reliability.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Pros
- Mild recoil for easy shooting
- Excellent accuracy potential
- Functions in all .357 Magnum revolvers
- Wide variety of ammunition available
- Proven reliability record
Cons
- Limited power compared to modern defensive cartridges
- Lower capacity than semi-automatic pistols
- Rainbow-like trajectory at longer ranges
- Slower to reload than semi-automatic pistols
- Relatively expensive compared to 9mm ammunition
.38 Special Ballistics
The .38 Special typically achieves velocities between 700-950 fps with standard pressure loads, while +P loads can reach 800-1,150 fps depending on bullet weight. Most common loadings use bullets from 110 to 158 grains. Use this bullet trajectory calculator to customize ballistic data for the load you are using.
Similar Calibers Compared
| Caliber | Typical Bullet Weight | Muzzle Velocity | Muzzle Energy | Energy at 50 yds |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| .38 Special | 158gr | 755 fps | 200 ft-lbs | 175 ft-lbs |
| .38 Special +P | 125gr | 945 fps | 248 ft-lbs | 210 ft-lbs |
| 9mm Luger | 124gr | 1150 fps | 364 ft-lbs | 315 ft-lbs |
| .380 ACP | 95gr | 955 fps | 192 ft-lbs | 165 ft-lbs |
What .38 Special Does Best
Training and Practice
The .38 Special truly excels as a training cartridge, particularly for those who own .357 Magnum revolvers. Its mild recoil and moderate report make it ideal for developing proper trigger control and shooting fundamentals. The reduced fatigue from recoil allows for longer practice sessions, while the consistent point of impact helps build confidence and proficiency. The cartridge's inherent accuracy potential makes it particularly valuable for learning precise shot placement.
Recreational Shooting
For recreational shooting and target practice, the .38 Special offers an excellent balance of performance and shootability. Its moderate power level makes it enjoyable to shoot for extended sessions, while still providing enough feedback to be engaging. The cartridge's accuracy potential makes it popular for informal target shooting and competitive events like bullseye shooting, where precision is paramount.
Personal Defense
While not as powerful as more modern defensive cartridges, the .38 Special remains viable for personal defense, particularly in its +P loadings. Modern bullet designs have significantly improved its terminal performance, and its mild recoil allows for quick follow-up shots. The cartridge's reliability in revolvers, combined with excellent accuracy, makes it particularly suitable for those who prefer simpler, more robust defensive firearms.
Types of Projectiles
Lead Round Nose (LRN)
- Traditional target and practice ammunition with excellent accuracy
Semi-Wadcutter (SWC)
- Sharp shouldered design for clean target holes and good penetration
Jacketed Hollow Point (JHP)
- Modern defensive ammunition with controlled expansion
Wadcutter (WC)
- Pure target ammunition, cuts clean holes in paper targets
Common .38 Special Bullet Weights
110-125 grain
- Lighter bullets for higher velocity in defensive loads
130-148 grain
- Mid-weight options balancing velocity and momentum
158 grain
- Traditional weight, excellent for target shooting and practice