Hello
Most of the 38 Special reviews that I did were shot with two guns.
A Taurus 85 Ulta Lite 2 inch barrel and a Smith & Wesson model 15 with a 4 inch barrel.
First I do forensic exam of the ammunition. Next I shoot a group while chronographing with each gun. 10 yards with the 2 inch Taurus 85 and 25 yards with the 4 inch Model 15. Chronograph is a Oehler 35P
Then the ammunition is shot out of each gun into a 55 gallon plastic barrel of water. The bullets are then recovered, photographed and then measured for expansion. In cases where the bullet fragments and loses its jacket, a weight is taken with all the recovered material and also a weight taken with just the lead core.
Here is the link to all the photos of the review;

38 SPL WIN Defense 125gr JHP +P — Postimages

Data Sheet



I was very pleased with the accuracy with this round especially at 25 yards with the 4 inch 15.
Expansion with the 2 inch was very minimal. It was trying but couldn't quite get there. With an average velocity of just 807 fps it wasn't going to happen. I should note here that this was the slowest average velocity recorded from ALL the ammunition, 110 thru 135gr, I tested out of the 2 inch gun.
However expansion and velocity with the 4 inch was decent. From a service revolver standpoint not too bad.
This ammunition could really use a velocity boost. But then if that were the case it would cost more, I would imagine.. As it is, I found a box of 50 at Midway for $0.66 per round.

I do appreciate you sharing your data. Thanks

That's the same bullet that is used in their full power 357 Magnum load. It's an old bullet design and really needs 1000 fps or more for reliable and predictable expansion, so really impressive in 357 Magnum form, not so much in 38 Special.

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VCDL, GOA, NRA

I shot a lot of the 110 & 125 Win SJHP bullets over the years.

When shot out of my snunb nose M49, the 125gr needed at least 836fps for it to start to mushroom, most of the time.
A maximum load of Unique at a 880fps +P loading was at POA and had the smallest group in all my test.

At one time it was very low in cost and a dream to shoot for target ammo, but those days are long gone.
Even the 100 bag at Cabela's has climbed to high prices, that I pass on.

Great ammo for the 4" revolver, though.
Thanks for the memories.