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Sevens · June 23, 2011, 11:42 PM

There may be raw, mathematical figures that dispute this, but here's what I have found. No BS, just my experience. (as such, it's highly subjective, but it's what I've experienced)

158 grain .38 Special +P from my S&W Model 60, 3-inch, J-frame

vs.

115gr .327 Federal Mag Gold Dot from Ruger SP-101, 3.06" barrel.

Energy numbers heavily favor the .327. Bullet speed is so drastically different, it's not comparable. Obviously, 27% more bullet weight with the .38, which is significant. Street data? There is none that I know of regarding the .327 Federal.

Felt recoil? More uncomfortable to shoot the Model 60 with .38 Spl +P.

Grips? Grip angle? Bore axis? Mental prep? I don't have those answers... but that's how it worked out to me. The Model 60 was my own revolver and I was quite familiar with it. The SP-101 belonged to someone else.

June 23, 2011, 11:42 PM	#307
Sevens Senior Member Join Date: July 28, 2007 Location: Ohio Posts: 11,756	There may be raw, mathematical figures that dispute this, but here's what I have found. No BS, just my experience. (as such, it's highly subjective, but it's what I've experienced) 158 grain .38 Special +P from my S&W Model 60, 3-inch, J-frame vs. 115gr .327 Federal Mag Gold Dot from Ruger SP-101, 3.06" barrel. Energy numbers heavily favor the .327. Bullet speed is so drastically different, it's not comparable. Obviously, 27% more bullet weight with the .38, which is significant. Street data? There is none that I know of regarding the .327 Federal. Felt recoil? More uncomfortable to shoot the Model 60 with .38 Spl +P. Grips? Grip angle? Bore axis? Mental prep? I don't have those answers... but that's how it worked out to me. The Model 60 was my own revolver and I was quite familiar with it. The SP-101 belonged to someone else. __________________ *Attention Brass rats and other reloaders:* I really need .327 Federal Magnum brass, no lot size too small. Tell me what caliber you need and I'll see what I have to swap. PM me and we'll discuss.