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38 S&W vs 38 Special
kimberkid
Member Posts: 8,857 ✭✭✭
A buddy of mine went to a local auction and bought a 38 Special that when he got it home, realized the barrel was stamped 38 S&W
He hasn’t been able to find any 38 38 S&W locally so he called me to see if they are the same thing or if he could at least shoot 38 special with it.
I have no idea but told him I’d “Ask the Experts” … so, what say y’all?
Same or different … safe or not?
If you really desire something, you'll find a way ?
? otherwise, you'll find an excuse.
? otherwise, you'll find an excuse.
This discussion has been closed.
Comments
Different.
The 38 S&W is a totally different animal than the 38 special.they can not be interchanged,
No. At the very least the bullet diameter of the 38 S&W is 361 v 357. Not a good idea.
Good to see you posting again. Mark C.
The .38 Special is almost 3/8 inch too long. There is also a difference in the bullet diameter. The .38 Colt New Police is the same cartridge as the .38 S&W.
The 38 S&W cartridge is shorter and fatter than the 38 Special and uses a slightly larger diameter bullet. The safe answer is never shoot a cartridge in a firearm that is not chambered for it. 38 S&W ammo is still produced and available. Your question raises some interesting questions for an advanced shooter to consider regarding case expansion, bullet release and pressure in a modern revolver, which I will not venture into. Good luck.
Thanks everyone!
take a look on the auction side see if he wants me to buy some ammo for it or list it for him!
? otherwise, you'll find an excuse.
Love it or list it? Sounds like you've been watching too much Home & Garden TV.
You might get additional information from us if you told us the make of your buddy's gun.
Neal
I think he said it was a H&R … he was only buying it because he didn’t have a 38, he may want a box of ammo just so he can shoot it, then it’ll go to the dark recesses of his safe … I’m waiting for him to call back.
Hiya Neal!
? otherwise, you'll find an excuse.
On the left, 38 S&W. On the right, 38 Special. Also called .38 S&W Special. And no, they REALLY don't interchange.
Ask for .38/200 ammo.