With ammunition that my revolver likes to digest I get the same degree of accuracy from both the 38 and 357. I tried as many brands and loadings I could get my hands on at local shops. For example, in 357 my S & W PC-13 absolutely loves PMC but hiccups with Remington, Federal and Winchester. In 38 its the opposite. Go figure.

I think if you try various brands and loadings you can get excellent accuracy from both.

Cylinder to barrel alignment and a properly angled, lapped and dimensioned/spaced forcing cone are much more important than the greater distance that must be traveled by the 38.

A good, solid-performing target revolver is the Taurus 86 38SPL Target. Not a S & W, but nevertheless offers great value and fun.

There is no equal to S & W's target models of the 1940s - 1950s. They are works of art. I would be loathe to shoot a pristine example in original box with paper work, manual, etc. A worthy investment.

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Shooting *
S & W PC-13
H & K PSP