Aquila .38 Especial

[smith revolver cop]

In searching the forum, most of the posts I have seen about Aquila ammo are regarding their .22 ammo. Does anyone have any experience with their .38 Special 158 gr SJHP? I have an opportunity to pick some up very reasonably priced. As an "old timer," I'm partial to a 158 grain load, and would prefer something that is not +P for some of my 2" & 3" J-frames. Any pros or cons? (I don't mind if it's dirty or smelly- just as long as it is reliable, even for carry if needed!)

 

[badge 851]

In searching the forum, most of the posts I have seen about Aquila ammo are regarding their .22 ammo. Does anyone have any experience with their .38 Special 158 gr SJHP? I have an opportunity to pick some up very reasonably priced. As an "old timer," I'm partial to a 158 grain load, and would prefer something that is not +P for some of my 2" & 3" J-frames. Any pros or cons? (I don't mind if it's dirty or smelly- just as long as it is reliable, even for carry if needed!)

First it is good ammunition. After I retired I went to work for the largest Security Company in WA state. They used, and continue to use; that very same ammunition in company issued firearms (S&W® 4" HB Mdl 10, S&W 3" Mdl 60, and Taurus® 4" Mdl 82) as duty ammo.

 

[photoman]

There's not a lot to choose from when looking at standard pressure 158gr JHP. All of the Aguila I've shot worked just fine.

p.s. Looks like Ammunition To Go has your load on sale right now.

Ammunition To Go : 50rds - 38 Special Aguila 158gr. Semi-Jacketed Hollow Point Ammo [AMS38HP] - $15.95

 

[smith revolver cop]

Thanks for the heads up. Believe it or not, there is a place locally that I can pick it up for $250/case of 1000 rounds - $12.50 a box!

Thanks for the input. It's been many years since I bought .38 ammo for carry, and I'm surprised at the limited selection of 158 grain and/or non +P... it's tough getting old!

 

[HotRoderX]

I have not shot there 38special ammo but will tell you this. I have had bad luck with there 9mm ammo failing to eject in two different guns. There is a crimp ring around the middle of the case which seems to get them stuck after firing.

 

[lebomm]

I traded into several boxes of Aguila .38 Auto (not Super) for the early Colts, and both my Astra 400 & Star Super just ate it up, but it wouldn't chamber in the Astra after reloading (?). Consistent, clean & accurate, good stuff but for the fit problem second time around. I loaded the remainder with 125 gr. LRN for the Star, then left 'em for the rangemaster.

Larry

 

[pff]

I've been carrying the Aguilla 158gr JHP in some of the older and lighter pieces. Been reliable, accurate, clean, etc.

Their site lists it at 900 fps in a 7.8" barrel, which I assume is to replicate a 6" revolver. Not clocked it in a snubby.

Thats the short edge of a playing card at 7 yards, standing with my K-38, using that load. And most of the wobble was me (as usual).


Regards,

Pat

 

[stiab]

I bought a box of the 158 grain JHP, but have not tested it yet. I have shot their 130 grain FMJ .38 Super, and really like it. It averaged 1255 fps from a Colt 1911, and I was very pleased. Appears to be high quality ammo, based on the little experience I have with it.

 

[smith revolver cop]

Thanks for the input. There is now a case of it in my basement! FYI, the $250/case price is at AIM Surplus in Middletown, OH. Can be ordered on their website and shipped; "locals" can pick up on Wednesdays.