.38 + p question

[Steve638]

I just got my first .38 A model 15 combat masterpiece. I would like to carry this as a side arm while hunting. What is the most powerful round I can use in this pistol?

 

[badge 851]

I just got my first .38 A model 15 combat masterpiece. I would like to carry this as a side arm while hunting. What is the most powerful round I can use in this pistol?

Click it

 

[Casehardn]

Supposedly if it's a model numbered gun, you can shoot +p ammo.
I don't shoot +P through my collector pieces, as like anything else it will loosen up sooner than later if it's a steady diet.

As far as the most powerful round, are we talking woods carry or 2 legged predators?
Hardcast solid is good for big critters for penetration, buffalo bore makes some really good non-+p and +p ammo in 38 special.

Enjoy the gun.

 

[Old cop]

I carried a model 15 as my issued weapon early during my LEO career. It handled the issue +P ammo without any problem.

 

[ArchAngelCD]

Why do so many people on this forum recommend Buffalo Bore ammo when it costs SO MUCH? Sire it's good ammo but IMO not good enough to warrant such a high price. There are other good companies out there who make good ammo at a more reasonable price. (like DoubleTap)

Buffalo Bore is charging $27/20 rounds of the FBI Load. Ammunition To Go has Remington FBI Load for $32.95/50 rounds and Federal's FBI Load is only $20.95/50 rounds. Both are time tested and very good ammo.

Personally I would probably carry a Hard Cast Flat Point bullet instead of a Hollow Point bullet in the woods.

 

[C4IGrant]

One of the best defense loads for .38 revolver is the Speer 135gr + P Gold Dot.

DocGKR (ballistic expert) has some comments and comparisons on them here: BUG's: .380 ACP vs. .38 Sp - M4Carbine.net Forums


50rd box of this ammo is $28.95 (SPEER LE 135gr + P 38 Special GDHP at G&R Tactical).


C4

 

[CatnPhx]

I agree 100% with C4IGrant.

Another source that supports Gold Dot 135gr +P HP Short Barrel ammo:

More information from Doctor Roberts: "With few exceptions, such as the Speer 135 gr +P JHP and Barnes XPB, the vast majority of .38 Sp JHP's fail to expand when fired from 2" barrels in the 4 layer denim test.

Best Choices for Self Defense Ammo

Good find on the 50 round box of ammo, C4IGrant. Thanks

 

[Texas Star]

I just got my first .38 A model 15 combat masterpiece. I would like to carry this as a side arm while hunting. What is the most powerful round I can use in this pistol?

What the heck is a .38 A Model 15?

I use the former FBI/Dallas load in .38's that may see use on animals and people. Expands and penetrates, usually enough

Some call this the Chicago load. I like it too well to hang a label like that on it.

 

[scooter123]

Click it

I wouldn't use that load in a model 15, 158 gn. bullet at 1162 fps out of a 4 inch barrel is a near Magnum. IMO that is NOT a +P loading, it's a 38/44 and much to hot for a 38 spl..

 

[Alk8944]

What the heck is a .38 A Model 15?

I use the former FBI/Dallas load in .38's that may see use on animals and people. Expands and penetrates, usually enough

Some call this the Chicago load. I like it too well to hang a label like that on it.

I would think he meant "....my first .38, a Model 15..." Amazing what the correct punctuation and syntax does for understanding the meaning of the written word!!!!

 

[lazy]

I am using a 158gn LRNFP with a low .357 charge of Tightgroup in .38 cases. Sure does give a nice kick out of my 686.

 

[JayBird686]

Glad I wondered into this thread. I have 442 that will be my CCW, once my license comes and was looking at whats the best ammo. I practice with Remington UMC +P hollow-points, but I believe they are a bit underloaded. I cant find someone who doesn't seem to like Speer Gold Dot.

Although I have been thinking Wadcutters too.

 

[badge 851]

I wouldn't use that load in a model 15, 158 gn. bullet at 1162 fps out of a 4 inch barrel is a near Magnum. IMO that is NOT a +P loading, it's a 38/44 and much too hot for a 38 spl..

The load is a +P loading; it is however, loaded to SAAMI pressure. It IS NOT an over pressure 38/44. I've shot hundreds of rounds of this stuff in my snub nose guns. Each to their own, but I will continue to use BB 38 Special ammo; both standard pressure and +P.