[Nick_C_S]

Yeah, with the current availability, I guess we get what we can get.

I see a lot of folks in this string recommending 158g slugs - mostly lead semi-wadcutters. Without doubt, they would put a good hurt on a bad guy. But I subscribe to the notion that a short barreled 38 would struggle getting that big fat slug lumbering down the barrel. I believe that it's better to go with something in the 125g range with a 38 snubbie. It's just physics. At least, that's how it works in my head. I'm certainly not saying anybody is wrong.

In fact, I don't choose a 158 for defense until I've worked all the way up to my .357 Smith 686 w/ an 8 3/8" barrel. (Federal Hydra-shock 158JHP)