.38 Special-Date of introduction

[handejector]

Interesting discussion in that so many people interested in S&W never acquire the books, and give credence to other publications that are so far removed from the historical data source.

The 38 Special was introduced to the public in 1899. It was on the market and available.

Perhaps a copy of a letter on a Model 1899 will help:

 

[Bill in Pa]

Originally posted by TRanger:
Depending on which authority you rely on, the .38 Special was introduced either in 1899 or 1902. Does anyone know of a reliable source to confirm the true date of this cartridge's introduction?

I have a 1990 Shooter's Bible with an article by Stanley W Trzoniec that puts the date at 1899.

 

[Wyatt Earp]

Originally posted by handejector:
Interesting discussion in that so many people interested in S&W never acquire the books, and give credence to other publications that are so far removed from the historical data source.

The 38 Special was introduced to the public in 1899. It was on the market and available.

Perhaps a copy of a letter on a Model 1899 will help:

It just does not get any more definitive than this.

 

[smith17]

This offering by the US Cartridge Company might be one of the first available for domestic use. It is the first box I have seen, before 1911, which does not specify for what guns it is intended. Usually these boxes state For use in S&W .38 Special revolvers or Made expressly for the .38 Caliber New Military Revolver. With labels on all four sides and top intact, this one only specifies the manufacturer, caliber and powder. No indication of the lead weight.
Ed