The terms ".38" and ".38 Special" are often used interchangeably, leading to confusion among firearm enthusiasts and newcomers alike. While closely related, these cartridges possess distinct characteristics that impact their performance and suitability for different applications. Understanding these differences is crucial for safe and informed handling of firearms.
Understanding the Caliber
Both the .38 and .38 Special are pistol cartridges, meaning they are designed for use in handguns. The ".38" designation refers to the approximate diameter of the bullet, which is 0.357 inches. However, the story behind the names and their differences is more nuanced than just a simple diameter.
The .38 Long Colt: The Precursor
The story begins with the .38 Long Colt, introduced in the late 19th century. This cartridge featured a relatively long, straight case, capable of holding a substantial powder charge. While powerful for its time, its long case presented challenges in revolver design and handling. It was subsequently seen as somewhat unwieldy compared to later designs.
The .38 Special: A Significant Improvement
The .38 Special emerged as a significant improvement over the .38 Long Colt. While using the same approximate bullet diameter, the .38 Special cartridge features a shorter, slightly wider case. This shorter case design allowed for more compact revolvers and increased ease of use. Crucially, it also offered improved safety mechanisms within the revolver itself.
Key Differences Between .38 and .38 Special
Here's a breakdown of the core differences:
| Feature | .38 Long Colt | .38 Special |
|---|---|---|
| Case Length | Longer | Shorter |
| Case Diameter | Slightly smaller | Slightly Larger |
| Powder Charge | Typically higher | Can vary, but generally lower |
| Pressure | Higher (can be dangerous in modern .38 Special firearms) | Lower (safer for modern firearms) |
| Recoil | Generally higher | Generally lower |
| Modern Use | Less common, mostly in antique firearms | Widely used in modern revolvers |
Safety Note: Firing .38 Long Colt ammunition in a firearm designed only for .38 Special can be dangerous due to the higher pressure generated by the longer case and larger powder charge. This could lead to firearm damage or injury. Never use ammunition in a firearm unless it explicitly states that the specific ammunition type is safe for that particular firearm.
Choosing the Right Cartridge
For modern applications, the .38 Special is the prevalent choice. Its shorter, safer cartridge design, widespread availability, and lower recoil make it suitable for target practice, personal defense, and other uses. The .38 Long Colt is mainly used by collectors or enthusiasts of antique firearms.
In Conclusion
While sharing a similar bullet diameter, the .38 Long Colt and .38 Special are distinct cartridges with differing performance characteristics. Understanding these differences—primarily the case length and resulting pressure—is essential for responsible firearm ownership and safe handling of both cartridges and firearms capable of firing them. Always prioritize safety and consult firearm manuals before using any ammunition.
