38 Special Ammunition

History of 38 Special Ammunition

The .38 Special cartridge has been an important part of the firearms world since its’ introduction in 1898. This cartridge was purpose built to be an improvement of the .38 Long Colt that was in use by the U.S. military at the time. The problem that brought about the need for a new cartridge was the lack of stopping power against enemies such as the Moro tribesmen of the Philippines and their tactics of charging using wooden shields.

From this need came one of the most popular cartridges in the world today. When brought up in conversation, the discussion of the .38 Special will no doubt touch upon the ever popular .38 “Snubby”, a revolver with a short barrel that is most commonly carried in a pocket or ankle holster as a back up gun by police and civilians alike. But the .38 Special also has had a rich service life with the military, serving in all branches from 1935 to 1985. It was mostly used by aircrew members as a personal protection/survival weapon, but it was also issued to police/security personnel as a duty sidearm.

The .38 Special also has been very popular among bullseye shooters, as it is a very accurate cartridge. The most commonly used handgun type was the revolver, but Smith & Wesson built a semi-auto pistol that had a 5 round magazine and would feed wadcutter style bullets. Practical pistol shooters also enjoy the mild recoil of the .38 Special round which allows for quick follow up shots.

Today .38 Special bullets can commonly be found in weights ranging from 95 to 158 grains. The bullet types vary from the wadcutter, to the round nose and hollow point. These cartridges can generate from 150 to almost 300 foot pounds of energy at the muzzle. The .38 Special is one of the calibers that is commonly used in concealed carry applications and many manufacturers offer their premium self defense ammo in .38 Special as a rule.

With great accuracy, concealable handguns, good knockdown power and easily found ammunition, the .38 Special is a cartridge that deserves its’ place among the most important cartridges in the firearms world.