158gr fmj or plated in 38 S&WSpecial
There are still quite a few fmj (or jhp, jsp, etc.) factory loads available: it is true that many manufacturers may choose to load these in a +P configuration.
But by going to the actual Freedom Munitions site (same company as Xtreme Bullets) you can find valuable info as to how they manufacture (and remanufacture) 158gr ammunition using plated bullets for 38 S&W Specials: you'll find them typically in the 835-900+ fps range.
If you crossreference this to the data on Ballistics 101for fmj, jhp, etc. ammunition you'll see this range as well.
It really doesn't matter which powders you use: the Hodgdon's pistol site has 18 or so loads using the 158gr XTP bullets: these are jacketed bullets. There's also plenty of "wiggle room" because most +P loads start off where standard pressure loads for these end. "MOST"! For example, with WIN231 (or HP38) MIN-MAX for this bullet is 3.8-4.3gr for standard pressure: +P is 4.6gr.
If there is any area where intentionally avoiding the "mouse fart" loads (that some find to be so attractive these days?) makes sense it would be in a case where you have reason to believe that a safety issue may be present.
If this is the case, just start towards the higher end of a published 158gr standard pressure load and enjoy!
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