.38 special

RedSkyFarm · April 27, 2019, 07:10 AM

Hi all. Looking for recommendations on defense bullets for a .38 special. Particularly what you guys think on for a good bullet weight and type (HP, RN, etc.). Thanks.

Nick_C_S · April 27, 2019, 07:35 AM

Lots of variables there.

What gun will be shooting these? Specifically, what barrel length?

Cold weather? Warm weather? (matters due to clothing/penetration)

Any other needs? Low recoil? Low flash signature?

mikld · April 27, 2019, 10:54 AM

I agree with Nick, lots of variables (and this topic has been discussed many times and no consensus has been reached). For my house gun, a 3" 38, I use cast double ended wadcutters over a hefty load of a fairly fast powder (max. loads of W231). I clocked my loads at just under 900 fps and the flat nose will deliver a lot of tissue damage and I won't worry about my bullets going through 5 walls and hitting my neighbor. My gun would be used at distances less than 30 feet, most closer to 15 (room size). And I've played with/practiced with this load for several years. My carry guns/woods walking guns will use a different type of load, depending on gun, and none are 38 Special (my 44s and/or 45s are more suitable to outdoors and greater distances).

April 27, 2019, 07:10 AM	#1
RedSkyFarm Member Join Date: April 22, 2016 Location: New Mexico Posts: 52	.38 special Hi all. Looking for recommendations on defense bullets for a .38 special. Particularly what you guys think on for a good bullet weight and type (HP, RN, etc.). Thanks.

April 27, 2019, 07:35 AM	#2
Nick_C_S Senior Member Join Date: March 21, 2013 Location: Idaho Posts: 5,523	Lots of variables there. What gun will be shooting these? Specifically, what barrel length? Cold weather? Warm weather? (matters due to clothing/penetration) Any other needs? Low recoil? Low flash signature? __________________ Gun control laws benefit only criminals and politicians - but then, I repeat myself. Life Member, National Rifle Association

April 27, 2019, 10:54 AM	#3
mikld Senior Member Join Date: February 7, 2009 Location: Southern Oregon! Posts: 2,891	I agree with Nick, lots of variables (and this topic has been discussed many times and no consensus has been reached). For my house gun, a 3" 38, I use cast double ended wadcutters over a hefty load of a fairly fast powder (max. loads of W231). I clocked my loads at just under 900 fps and the flat nose will deliver a lot of tissue damage and I won't worry about my bullets going through 5 walls and hitting my neighbor. My gun would be used at distances less than 30 feet, most closer to 15 (room size). And I've played with/practiced with this load for several years. My carry guns/woods walking guns will use a different type of load, depending on gun, and none are 38 Special (my 44s and/or 45s are more suitable to outdoors and greater distances). __________________ My Anchor is holding fast! I've learned how to stand on my own two knees...