In looking at the results from the Brass Fetcher website, and comparing the 380 95 gr FMJ bullets vs 38 Spl 158 gr SWCHP (Remington load), it appears that when both are fired in a controlled test into heavy denim fabric over ballistic gelatin (I think a better "real world" test than just plain gelatin) , there is virtually no difference.
The Win WWB 380 95 gr FN-FMJ & Am Eagle RN-FMJ penetrated basically the same distance as the Remington 158 gr SWCHP, and the 380 load did not expand (.355 dia) and the 38 Spl load avg recovered expansion diameter was .354, so basically identical.
The 380 loads were fired from a KelTec, and the 38 Spl loads from a S&W 642, possibly 2 of the most commonly carried concealed handguns these days.
The KelTec pistol has the advantage of lighter weight, slimmer design, and 7 total shots. The 642 has the advantage that it is most likely less prone to jam than the semi-auto may be.
So, my question is, am I missing something here, or are these 2 loads truly about equal ? I have both handguns, but have really felt a little under-gunned with the KelTec loaded with the WWB 95 gr FN-FMJ load, as opposed to the load I carry in my 642, which is the BB 158 gr SWCHP non+P (which BTW avgs 906 fps, and the Rem load avgs 902 fps).
I guess I'm looking for confirmation that there really is not much difference which one I carry should the unfortunate situation ever arise where I really had to defensively use one of these loads ? Thoughts ????
The Win WWB 380 95 gr FN-FMJ & Am Eagle RN-FMJ penetrated basically the same distance as the Remington 158 gr SWCHP, and the 380 load did not expand (.355 dia) and the 38 Spl load avg recovered expansion diameter was .354, so basically identical.
The 380 loads were fired from a KelTec, and the 38 Spl loads from a S&W 642, possibly 2 of the most commonly carried concealed handguns these days.
The KelTec pistol has the advantage of lighter weight, slimmer design, and 7 total shots. The 642 has the advantage that it is most likely less prone to jam than the semi-auto may be.
So, my question is, am I missing something here, or are these 2 loads truly about equal ? I have both handguns, but have really felt a little under-gunned with the KelTec loaded with the WWB 95 gr FN-FMJ load, as opposed to the load I carry in my 642, which is the BB 158 gr SWCHP non+P (which BTW avgs 906 fps, and the Rem load avgs 902 fps).
I guess I'm looking for confirmation that there really is not much difference which one I carry should the unfortunate situation ever arise where I really had to defensively use one of these loads ? Thoughts ????
