.38 Special
Reloading data for .38 Special cartridges and specifications for cases and loads in this caliber.
Product number: CID_585
Load data for caliber ".38 Special"
38 Special is a popular revolver cartridge that was first introduced in 1898 by Smith & Wesson. It is a rimmed, centerfire cartridge that is commonly used for self-defense, target shooting, and law enforcement applications.The 38 Special cartridge has a bullet diameter of .357 inches (9.07 mm) and a case length of 1.155 inches (29.34 mm). The cartridge typically uses a 158-grain (10.2 g) lead or jacketed bullet, although other bullet weights and types are also available.
38 Special is a popular and versatile cartridge that can be used in a variety of firearms, including revolvers, lever-action rifles, and some semi-automatic pistols. It has become one of the most widely used and recognized handgun cartridges in the world.
You find .38 Special with all common powders and bullets by clicking the 'Loads in this caliber' button above.
Technical Specifications (based on the respective safety standard - see more details in tab 'Datasheet' if available)
| Caliber: | .38 Special |
|---|---|
| Cartridge Type: | Pistol/Revolver |
| Bullet Diameter: | 0.357 '' | 9.07 mm |
| Primer Size: | Small Pistol (SP) |
| Max. Case Length (l3): | 1.14'' | 29.08 mm |
| Max .Cartridge Length / OAL: | 1.55'' | 39.37 mm |
| Maximum Standardized Pressure: | 21756 psi | 1500 bar |
C.I.P.
The Commission internationale permanente pour l'épreuve des armes à feu portatives ("Permanent International Commission for the Proof of Small Arms" – commonly abbreviated as C.I.P.) is an international organisation which sets standards for safety testing of firearms. (The word portatives ("portable") in the name refers to the fact the C.I.P. tests small arms almost exclusively; it is ordinarily omitted from the English translation of the name.) As of 2015, its members are the national governments of 14 countries, of which 11 are European Union member states. The C.I.P. safeguards that all firearms and ammunition sold to civilian purchasers in member states are safe for the users.
To achieve this, all such firearms are first proof tested at C.I.P. accredited Proof Houses. The same applies for cartridges; at regular intervals, cartridges are tested against the C.I.P. pressure specifications at the ammunition manufacturing plants and at C.I.P. accredited Proof Houses.