The original load for the .38 Special has been given as 21.5 gr of black and a 158 grain lead roundnose. This made it way more special than the .38 Government (Long Colt) which was considered inadequate in the Philippines with 18 gr of black and a 150 gr bullet.

But by 1939 the remaining black powder load (of English manufacture) for .38 Special was down to 18 gr, probably due to thicker brass.