New Gun In House

Shooting Padre · #1 10-02-2011, 08:15 PM

iI just picked up a J frame Model 36, serial #J 378XXX. I know the first year S&W used the letter J in the serial number was 1969. The J Magnum was introduced in 1996 (August) and rated for .38+P ammo. Am I correct in thinking I can not use +P ammo in my revolver? What is the recommend ammo for self defense from users of this gun? Thanks.

Dragon88 · #2 10-02-2011, 08:18 PM

Most recommend this load for non +P rated 38 Specials:

Buffalo Bore Ammunition 38 Special 158 Grain Lead Semi-Wadcutter Hollow Point Box of 20 - MidwayUSA

Here's a video review of the load with ballistic gel test:

Buffalo Bore .38 Special 158 gr Semiwadcutter Ammo Test - YouTube

P&R Fan · #3 10-02-2011, 08:19 PM

It dates to early 1976.
I would not have a problem shooting +Ps in it. Probably a huge number might not be a good idea, but I wouldn't worry about it.
Jim

fyimo · #4 10-02-2011, 11:17 PM

Congratulations on the purchase

Shooting Padre · #5 10-03-2011, 09:16 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by P&R Fan

It dates to early 1976.
I would not have a problem shooting +Ps in it. Probably a huge number might not be a good idea, but I wouldn't worry about it.
Jim

You were right on with the date of manufacture. A call to Smith and Wesson did result in a recommendation not to use +P in this gun. What was your advice based on? I know S&W could give advice on the side of caution as to avoid any legal issues.

OIF2 · #6 10-03-2011, 09:33 AM

A while back, before S&W rated their J-frames for +P, LAPD's duty load was a +P for .38s. All J-frames got shot (some extensively) with +P ammo. S&W was aware of this (the LAPD Armory was usually in weekly contact over various issues with Springfield), but never commented negatively. There was interest by S&W over wear issues, though, which is accelerated by frequent +P use. Go ahead and use +P in your gun; I wouldn't practice daily with it, though. Small guns are made to be carried much and shot less. It's also easier on your hand.
Bob

Shooting Padre · #7 10-03-2011, 04:25 PM

Thank you OIF2. I intended to carry a +P defense load, but practice with non +P rounds. I would shoot maybe a couple +Ps to see where they impact and check bullet weight against POI. Thanks very much for your informative post.

Stophel · #8 10-03-2011, 04:58 PM

Even Buffalo Bore's "standard pressure" load is fairly stout and velocity-wise is equivalent to other "+P"s. It's what I have in mine

And they print right at point of aim for me, just like standard 158 gr. ammo.

roundgunner · #9 10-03-2011, 08:43 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Stophel

Even Buffalo Bore's "standard pressure" load is fairly stout and velocity-wise is equivalent to other "+P"s. It's what I have in mine

And they print right at point of aim for me, just like standard 158 gr. ammo.

That is what I keep in the wifes 442 I use gold dot 357 in both my Js