Just acquired a S&W model 37 Airweight 38 Special. It has a pinned barrel and was made in early 80's What would be a safe defense load (factory ammo)? Thanks.

For that particular gun I like Double Tap Full Wadcutters they get 740 fps out of a snub or any non +P 158 gr SWC.


Pete

Any factory .38 Special load is "safe" in a revolver that's in good operating condition. The load i would carry is the load that is most accurate in your revolver. With all the good bullets out there all name brand SD loads will do as they should if needed. The best bullet in the world will do you no good unless you hit what you shoot at, accuracy is the key.

That said, I carry Speer 135gr Short Barrel .38 Special +P ammo in my M442. (same gun but with an enclosed hammer) Other J frames I have like the FBI Load better so that's what I load in them.

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My model 37 no dash 1968 manufacture, loves 158 grain LRN's. I hit pretty good with the Mag-Tech's. Standard pressure only for my alloy framed 37 airweight.
Peace,
gordon

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You will get maximum penetration with the 158 gr bullets but also maximum recoil..............the 125Jhp will work but it might not expand well at non+P velositys at 830-860fps, while
the win 110Jhp silvertip at 880fps will mushroom but minimal penetration of 9-10" are the norm.
The BEST non +P ammo for the airweight guns is the 125gr NYCLAD by Federal if you can find them but they are not a "Winter load" that will penetrate a heavy coat or jacket well and give enough penetration.

You might need two of these low velosity loads to stop an attacker,maybe 3 or more depending on the conditions.......
One reason to at least think of a +P load when carrying or going to use it for SD, if possible. Light loads and a 300 pound enemy are not a good thing............

Dwaine, I shoot a model 37 and use LSWCHP 158g Rem. I shoot a tighter group when point shooting, and it expands well. I tried a number of different rounds until
I settled some years ago, on that. Experts of old preferred this and Remington makes them.
Just my experience. It's fun to get good with a snub airweight.

I carry the old +P FBI load in my older model 442. If I had to use it, and the +P did the job but broke the gun (doubtful), that would be okay w/me. The gun will sit in police evidence anyway . . .

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