The terms ".38" and ".38 Special" are often used interchangeably, leading to confusion, especially for those unfamiliar with firearms. While closely related, they represent distinct cartridges with key differences in their design and performance. Understanding these differences is crucial for anyone handling or researching these calibers.
Understanding the Caliber Designations
Both .38 and .38 Special refer to cartridges that fire bullets roughly .357 inches (9.07 mm) in diameter. The ".38" designation is a bit of a historical legacy, originating from early black powder cartridges. The actual diameter is slightly smaller than the name suggests due to variations in measurement techniques of the time.
Key Differences Between .38 and .38 Special
The primary difference lies in the cartridge case length and the resulting powder capacity:
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.38 Long Colt: This is the older cartridge, often shortened to ".38." It’s a shorter, less powerful round compared to the .38 Special. Its shorter case holds less gunpowder, resulting in lower muzzle velocity and less stopping power. While still used in some older revolvers, it’s significantly less common today.
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.38 Special: Introduced later, the .38 Special uses a longer cartridge case. This allows for more gunpowder, leading to a higher muzzle velocity and greater energy transfer upon impact. It's significantly more powerful and widely used than the .38 Long Colt. Modern .38 Special ammunition also often utilizes more modern smokeless powder, further enhancing performance compared to the older black powder loads used in the .38 Long Colt.
Comparing Key Characteristics:
| Feature | .38 Long Colt | .38 Special |
|---|---|---|
| Case Length | Shorter | Longer |
| Powder Capacity | Less | More |
| Muzzle Velocity | Lower | Higher |
| Stopping Power | Lower | Higher |
| Common Usage | Primarily historical, some older revolvers | Modern revolvers, target shooting |
| Availability | Less readily available | Widely available |
Why the Confusion?
The confusion stems from the fact that many revolvers chambered in .38 Special can also fire .38 Long Colt cartridges. However, firing .38 Long Colt in a .38 Special revolver is generally safe, albeit less powerful, the reverse is not true. Attempting to fire .38 Special ammunition in a revolver only designed for .38 Long Colt can lead to serious damage to the firearm and potential injury to the shooter. Always double-check your firearm's manual to confirm the appropriate ammunition.
Conclusion
While the names are similar, the .38 and .38 Special represent distinct cartridges with considerable differences in performance. The .38 Special is the more powerful and prevalent round, largely supplanting the .38 Long Colt in modern usage. Understanding these differences is vital for safe and responsible firearms handling. Always consult a firearms expert or the owner's manual for your specific firearm before using any ammunition.
