All citations are from "U.S. Cartridges and Their Handguns", pp. 172-173. Charles R. Suydam (C) 1977 Bienfield Publishing. Mr. Suydam is a very highly regarded authority on early U.S. Cartridge development.
"....the .38 Smith & Wesson Special cartridge was first made by UMC in early 1899; cartridges were sent to Smith & Wesson for trial in May of that year. Original loads were of 18 grains of black powder...."
"In June, 1899, the powder charge was changed to 21.5 grains;......"
"The first smokeless loadings were made in September, 1899......"
"Earliest known specimen of the First Model Hand Ejector chambered for the .38 Special cartridge is serial No. 8;....."
"....earliest known with barrel marked (on the left side of the frame) ".38 S&W SPECIAL CTG." is serial No. 11,236, although there are probably earlier ones."
Last edited by Alk8944; 01-21-2011 at 09:43 PM.
Reason: Loading change to 21.5 gr.
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