The term "38 Special" refers to a specific type of ammunition and is commonly associated with a revolver cartridge. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what “38 Special” means:
Origin and Specifications
History: The .38 Special cartridge was developed by Smith & Wesson in 1902 as a lengthened version of the earlier .38 Long Colt cartridge. It quickly gained popularity among law enforcement, military, and civilian shooters.
Dimensions: The .38 Special cartridge has a rimmed brass case that measures 1.155 inches (29.4 mm) in length and has a bullet diameter of .357 inches (9.1 mm). The case mouth is designed to securely hold a bullet measuring between .355 inches (9.0 mm) and .358 inches (9.1 mm) in diameter.
- Typical Load: Standard factory loads for .38 Special can range from around 130 to 158 grains (the weight of the bullet), with the most common types being lead round nose, full metal jacket, and various hollow points for self-defense.
Performance
Velocity and Energy: The .38 Special typically produces a muzzle velocity ranging from about 750 to 1,000 feet per second (fps) depending on the powder charge and bullet weight. Its energy will generally fall between 200 to 300 foot-pounds.
- Ballistics: While it is not the most powerful handgun cartridge available, the .38 Special is known for its manageable recoil, which makes it suitable for practice and self-defense situations. It was widely used before the advent of more powerful cartridges like the .357 Magnum.
Applications
Law Enforcement and Military: The .38 Special was the standard issue for many law enforcement agencies and military units for decades due to its accuracy and ease of use. It has largely been replaced by semi-automatic pistols in recent years, but many still carry it in personal defense roles.
Self-Defense: Due to its controllable recoil and availability in hollow-point configurations, the .38 Special is often recommended for self-defense, especially for individuals who may be less experienced with firearms.
- Recreational Shooting: The .38 Special is a popular choice for target shooting and recreational use, offering a balance of power and accuracy that is appealing to a wide range of shooters.
Compatibility
- Firearm Compatibility: The .38 Special works primarily in revolvers, but it can also be fired in some .357 Magnum revolvers. This is due to the fact that the .357 Magnum cartridge has a longer case length, but the chambers of .357 revolvers can accommodate the shorter .38 Special cartridge.
Conclusion
The .38 Special is a versatile cartridge with a long history of use in various applications, from law enforcement to personal defense and recreational shooting. Its manageable recoil and effectiveness make it a favorite among many shooters.