Soft lead bullets were never intended for shooting through metal; too much deformation at impact reduces penetration. The .38-44 .38 Special load was developed in the 30's to engage felons in automobiles. There were round nosed Metal Point 158 gr bullets that addressed the problem too. I have some 150 gr.38 and 158 gr .357 pointed, metal penetrating rounds from the 70's. They both have decent penetration in car doors provided that no heavy structures inside the door are hit.