Can You Shoot .38 S&W in a .38 Special Revolver? The Answer is Complex
The short answer is: generally no, you should not shoot .38 S&W in a .38 Special revolver. While they might seem similar, there are crucial differences that make this potentially dangerous. Let's delve into the details to understand why.
Understanding the Cartridge Differences
The .38 S&W (Smith & Wesson) and the .38 Special are both revolver cartridges, but they have key distinctions:
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Case Length: The .38 Special cartridge is significantly longer than the .38 S&W. This is the primary reason why firing a .38 S&W in a .38 Special revolver is risky.
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Pressure: While both cartridges operate at relatively low pressures compared to modern semi-automatic pistol rounds, the pressure differences still exist. The shorter .38 S&W case could potentially create excessive pressure within the .38 Special chamber, leading to dangerous malfunctions.
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Chamber Design: .38 Special revolvers are designed to accommodate the longer case length of the .38 Special round. A .38 S&W cartridge might not fully seat in the chamber of a .38 Special revolver, potentially causing misfires or creating a dangerous situation where the round isn't properly supported upon firing.
The Risks of Mixing Cartridges
Attempting to fire a .38 S&W in a .38 Special revolver carries several serious risks:
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Bullet Leading: The improper seating of the .38 S&W cartridge can lead to excessive bullet leading, which is when lead from the bullet builds up in the barrel, causing accuracy issues and potentially damaging the firearm.
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Case Rupture: The increased pressure generated by a smaller cartridge in a larger chamber could cause the .38 S&W case to rupture, potentially causing injury to the shooter or damage to the firearm.
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Gun Damage: Even without a catastrophic failure, the increased pressure and improper seating could damage the firearm's internal components over time, making it unsafe to use.
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Misfires: Poor seating can result in misfires, leaving you with a potentially dangerous situation requiring careful handling.
When it Might Seem Possible (But Still Shouldn't Be Done)
Some older .38 Special revolvers might appear to accept both cartridges due to slightly oversized chambers or other manufacturing variations. However, relying on this is incredibly dangerous and irresponsible. There's no guarantee that even an older revolver will safely handle the different cartridge.
The Safe Approach: Always Check Your Ammunition
The safest and most responsible approach is to always double-check your ammunition before firing any firearm. Ensure the ammunition you are loading matches the firearm's specifications precisely. Never assume compatibility based on visual similarity alone. If you are unsure, consult a qualified firearms expert or refer to your firearm's manual.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. Handling firearms requires proper training and safety precautions. Always consult with a qualified firearms instructor and adhere to all relevant safety regulations. Improper handling of firearms can lead to serious injury or death.
