Quote:
Originally Posted by Ltlbear
All this debate on muzzle velocity seems somewhat unnecessary. To me the real question is, did SAAMI change the chamber pressure rating of 38 special after 1972. I have read it was 20,000 psi and after 1972 is now 16,000 PSI with +P being around 20,000.
Seems to me, it that is true, then all the velocity testing is a mute point. Manufactures used to load 38 special above current +p and now they load it light.
If these numbers are true, then any older gun rated for 38 Special would have no problem shooting +P because it was designed for the higher chamber pressures at the time.
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Ltlbear, SAAMI did lower the pressure of all rounds in 1972. Here is a link explaining the change.
.38 Special - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Bottom line: The standard pressure 38 special round today is weaker than it was back before 1972. And yes, most +P 38 specials are loaded at pressures that were close to standard pressure rounds before 1972.
Again, I have a M&P pre-10 4 inch produced in 1954. I use quite offen todays +P ammo. I usually shoot 158 gr ammo traveling around 850 fps according to the ammo maker I use. As long as the revolver is in good condition I can't see a problem shooting most +P rounds made today even in a revolver made 50 years ago.
Howard