If you’re a gun enthusiast or someone who enjoys shooting, you might have come across the terms “38 S&W” and “38 Special” at some point. While these two calibers may sound similar, they are not interchangeable. In this blog post, we will dive into the world of firearms and answer the burning question: Can you shoot 38 S&W in a 38 Special revolver?
Many gun owners often wonder if they can use 38 S&W ammunition in their 38 Special revolvers, or if the two are compatible. We will explore the differences between the two calibers, clarify any misconceptions, and provide a clear understanding of what can and cannot be safely fired in a 38 Special revolver. So grab your favorite firearm and let’s dig into the details!
Can you shoot .38 S&W in a .38 Special revolver?
If you’re a gun enthusiast or just someone interested in firearms, you may have come across the question: Can you shoot .38 S&W in a .38 Special revolver? While it may seem like a straightforward query, the answer is not as simple as a ‘yes’ or ‘no.’ So, grab your favorite beverage and let’s dive into the fascinating world of revolver ammunition compatibility!
Understanding the Differences
First, let’s unravel the mysteries behind these two seemingly similar cartridges. The .38 S&W and .38 Special may share a common number, but they have distinct design characteristics and historical backgrounds. The .38 S&W, also known as the “.38 Colt New Police” in some circles, was introduced way back in 1877, when revolvers were still all the rage and people wore their handlebar mustaches with pride. On the other hand, the .38 Special made its grand entrance in 1898, proving that it’s never too late to join the ammunition party.
Size Matters – And So Does Pressure
Now, here’s where things get a bit tricky. While both rounds have a similar bullet diameter of .357 inches (or 9.07mm for our metric friends), the .38 S&W cartridge is slightly fatter, with a case diameter of .386 inches compared to the .38 Special’s .379 inches. This size difference can cause some serious compatibility issues.
Additionally, the .38 S&W operates at lower pressures than its snazzier .38 Special sibling. Trying to load a .38 S&W cartridge into a .38 Special revolver could result in unexpected pressure spikes, resembling a surprise fireworks display more than a controlled shooting experience.
It’s Dangerous (and Definitely Not Smart)
Now, just because you can do something doesn’t mean you should. Shooting .38 S&W ammo in a .38 Special revolver is a big no-no. It’s like trying to fit into your favorite skinny jeans from a decade ago—uncomfortable, potentially dangerous, and likely to end in disappointment. Revolvers are precision instruments, and using the wrong ammunition can cause excessive wear and tear on the firearm, leading to potential malfunctions or even worse, flying revolver parts.
Play It Safe and Save Face
But don’t despair, dear shooter! There’s always a silver lining. To ensure a safe shooting experience and avoid any unfortunate mishaps, always stick to the ammunition caliber specified by your revolver manufacturer. In this case, if you own a trusty .38 Special revolver, feed it .38 Special ammunition, and both you and your firearm will be happy campers.
Remember, safety should always be a top priority when dealing with firearms. It’s much better to be the wise and responsible gun owner who does the research and asks the important questions, rather than the unfortunate individual who learns the hard way. So, next time someone asks if you can shoot .38 S&W in a .38 Special revolver, you will be armed and ready with a resounding “Nope, no can do!” Stay safe, my friends!
FAQ: Can you shoot .38 S&W in a .38 Special revolver?
If you’re a gun enthusiast or just new to the world of firearms, you may have come across the .38 S&W and .38 Special calibers. The names may sound similar, but they have some distinct differences. In this FAQ-style subsection, we’ll dive into some common questions about shooting .38 S&W in a .38 Special revolver. So, let’s get started!
Can a .38 revolver shoot .357 bullets
Yes, it can! One of the interesting aspects of .38 caliber revolvers is their ability to fire .357 Magnum ammunition. While the .357 Magnum cartridges are longer than the .38 Special, they share the same bullet diameter of .357 inches. So, if you own a .38 Special revolver, you have the versatility to shoot both .38 Special and .357 Magnum ammunition.
Is .38 S&W the same as 9mm
No, they are not the same. Though both .38 S&W and 9mm are popular calibers, they have different dimensions. The .38 S&W has a slightly larger bullet diameter of .361 inches compared to the 9mm’s .355 inches. Additionally, the .38 S&W operates at lower pressures. Therefore, it’s important not to interchange these two calibers, as they are not compatible.
Are .38 and .357 the same diameter
No, they are not. While both .38 and .357 calibers sound similar, the .357 caliber actually has a larger bullet diameter than the .38 caliber. The .38 caliber has a bullet diameter of .357 inches, while the .357 caliber has a bullet diameter of .357 inches, hence its name. It’s essential to know this distinction when selecting ammunition for your revolver.
Can you shoot a .38 Smith & Wesson
No, you can’t. The .38 Smith & Wesson (also known as .38 S&W) is not compatible with a .38 Special revolver. The .38 S&W has a shorter cartridge length and a larger bullet diameter compared to the .38 Special. Attempting to fire .38 S&W ammunition in a .38 Special revolver can potentially lead to dangerous situations. Always double-check your ammunition and use the appropriate caliber for your firearm.
Is .38 Special bigger than 9mm
When comparing these two popular calibers, the .38 Special has a larger bullet diameter than the 9mm. The .38 Special measures .357 inches in diameter, while the 9mm has a smaller bullet diameter of .355 inches. It’s crucial to choose the right ammunition for your firearm to ensure safe and accurate shooting.
Can a .357 rifle shoot .38 Special
Absolutely! Just like a .38 Special revolver can shoot .357 Magnum ammunition, a .357 rifle can also fire .38 Special rounds. This interchangeability is one of the advantages of owning firearms chambered in these calibers. It provides flexibility and allows you to use various ammunition types in your rifle.
What calibers are interchangeable
In addition to the interchangeability between .38 Special and .357 Magnum, there are other calibers that can be used in specific firearms. For example, some semi-automatic pistols can shoot both .38 Super and 9mm ammunition. However, it’s essential to consult your firearm’s manufacturer manual to ensure the compatibility and safety of interchangeable calibers.
Is .38 ACP the same as .38 Super
No, they are not the same. The .38 ACP (Automatic Colt Pistol) and .38 Super are different calibers. The .38 Super is loaded to higher pressures and offers greater firepower than the .38 ACP. While the names may sound similar, their dimensions and performance characteristics are not interchangeable.
What guns shoot .38 Super
The .38 Super cartridge is primarily used in semi-automatic pistols designed to chamber this specific caliber. Some notable firearms that can shoot .38 Super include the Colt Government Model 1911 and various models from manufacturers like Rock Island Armory and Dan Wesson. It’s always crucial to verify the compatibility of ammunition with your firearm before using it.
Are 9mm and .38 caliber the same
No, they are not the same. The 9mm and .38 caliber have different bullet diameters. The 9mm has a bullet diameter of .355 inches, while the .38 caliber measures .357 inches in diameter. Thus, it’s important to use the correct ammunition for your firearm to ensure safe and reliable shooting.
Is a Colt .38 Super a 1911
Yes, it is! The Colt .38 Super, also known as the Colt Government Model 1911, is a popular semi-automatic pistol that’s based on the iconic design of the Colt M1911. It is chambered in the .38 Super caliber and offers enhanced firepower compared to the original .45 ACP version. The Colt .38 Super 1911 is appreciated by many shooters for its power and accuracy.
Is .38 S&W the same as .38 short
While both calibers may have similar characteristics, they are not the same. The .38 S&W and .38 Short share the same dimensions for bullet diameter and cartridge length. However, the chamber dimensions and pressure specifications differ between the two calibers. Therefore, it’s important to use the correct ammunition for your firearm and consult the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Do they make 9mm revolvers
Yes, they do! Although most commonly associated with semi-automatic pistols, there are revolvers chambered in 9mm. These revolvers provide an alternative option for those who prefer the mechanics and reliability of revolvers but desire to shoot the 9mm caliber. It’s always exciting to see firearm manufacturers offering innovative choices for shooters.
Is .357 the same as .38 Special
No, they are not the same. The .38 Special and .357 Magnum are two different calibers with distinct characteristics. However, it’s worth noting that .38 Special revolvers can shoot both .38 Special and .357 Magnum cartridges. The .357 Magnum cartridge is longer and more powerful than the .38 Special, providing shooters with increased velocity and energy.
What is the difference between .38 and .38 Special
The main difference between .38 and .38 Special lies in their length and pressure specifications. The .38 Special is a longer cartridge than the .38, allowing it to accommodate more powder and generate higher chamber pressures. The additional powder capacity provides the .38 Special with enhanced velocity and energy compared to the standard .38 caliber.
Is .38 Super the same as .380
No, they are not the same. The .38 Super and .380 ACP (Automatic Colt Pistol) are distinct calibers. The .38 Super offers greater velocity and energy compared to the .380 ACP, making it a popular choice for self-defense and competitive shooting. It’s important to use the correct ammunition for your firearm to ensure safe and accurate shooting.
Why do they call it .38 Special
The name “.38 Special” was chosen to distinguish this caliber from its predecessor, the .38 Long Colt. Smith & Wesson introduced the .38 Special in 1898 as an improvement over the .38 Long Colt’s performance. The introduction of a larger, more powerful cartridge with more modern design features earned it the special designation.
What is the .38 Super ammo
The .38 Super ammo is a high-velocity, semi-rimmed cartridge designed for semi-automatic pistols. It provides greater power and muzzle velocity compared to other calibers like the .38 Special and 9mm. The .38 Super ammo is often favored by competitive shooters due to its flatter trajectory, increased recoil management, and reliable feeding characteristics.
Now that we’ve covered some of the frequently asked questions about shooting .38 S&W in a .38 Special revolver, you have a better understanding of the differences between these calibers. Always prioritize safety and ensure you use the correct ammunition for your firearm. Happy shooting!
