I’m currently trying to wrap my head around the difference between .38 Special and .38 Special +P ammunition, and I could really use some insight from those more experienced in the shooting community.
Understanding the Basics
What is .38 Special?
.38 Special ammunition is a cartridge that has been around since the late 19th century. It is primarily known for its moderate recoil and effectiveness for self-defense purposes. The standard pressure rating for .38 Special is about 17,000 psi. Many revolvers can fire this type of ammo due to its lower power levels.
What is .38 Special +P?
On the other hand, .38 Special +P ammunition is a higher-pressure variant, designed to produce greater velocity and stopping power. The +P designation indicates that these rounds are loaded to a higher pressure, typically around 18,500 psi or more. This extra oomph can make a significant difference in performance.
Some Key Differences
Pressure Rating: As mentioned, .38 Special is around 17,000 psi while +P can reach 18,500 psi or higher.
Velocity and Energy: Due to the higher pressures, +P rounds generally have higher muzzle velocities and energy figures, which can translate to better performance against potential threats.
Compatibility: Not all firearms rated for .38 Special can handle +P ammunition. Older revolvers, especially those made before the 1980s, may not be rated for +P usage and could experience issues or even damage if fired with these hotter loads.
Recoil: With greater power comes greater recoil. While some shooters may appreciate the increased stopping power of +P, others may find the added recoil to be uncomfortable.
Safety Considerations
If you’re considering using .38 Special +P in your firearm, it’s crucial to check your gun’s specifications. Most modern revolvers are designed to handle +P without an issue, but older models might not be.
Additionally, keep in mind that while +P ammo offers benefits such as increased stopping power, its use could lead to faster wear on the firearm over time.
Personal Experiences
It would be great to hear from anyone who has personal experience with either of these types of ammunition. How has your experience been when shooting .38 Special versus .38 Special +P?
What specific firearms do you use with each type? Any issues you’ve run into, or tips for safely using +P in firearms that are rated for it? Your insights would be greatly appreciated!
The main difference between .38 Special and .38 Special +P is their pressure levels. The +P can handle higher pressures, leading to increased velocity and energy, which can translate into better terminal performance.
That’s a great point! In practice, this means that +P loads can deliver projectiles around 200-300 fps faster than standard .38 Special, making them more effective in self-defense scenarios.
Ballistics-wise, .38 Special typically ranges from 158 to 180 grains, while +P can also use these weights but achieve greater velocity. It’s key to look at specific loads to really compare.
It’s important to consider that while .38 Special +P has enhanced performance, not all firearms are rated for +P. Always check your gun’s specifications before using them.
I’ve shot both, and I’ve found that +P has definitely more recoil. It takes a bit to get used to, but the trade-off in performance can be worth it for self-defense.
Would it be accurate to say that +P is for those who prioritize performance over comfort? Because at the range, I usually seem to prefer the smoother .38 Special.
I think the important thing is to find the right load for your own needs. If +P gives you peace of mind, then go for it, but train with what you carry!
Great topic! The main difference is that Plus P ammo is loaded to higher pressure, yielding more velocity and energy. Make sure your firearm is rated for it!