I own a S&W model 60 Stainless revolver that I enjoy using and carrying. Since this is a 5 round .38 special, I'd like to learn if there would be a problem if I used the .38special+P amunition. Perhaps the load might be too much for this revolver. I'd be glad to kow more about this.
Prper 38 cal. use for S&W Model 60
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I have had the .38 Model 60 3" for a couple of decades. Any SAAMI standard or +P load is fine in it.
I tend to practice and plink with wadcutters and carry +P. Shoot a few full loads at the end of your practice to stay familiar.
Kramer made me an IWB holster for it.
I tend to practice and plink with wadcutters and carry +P. Shoot a few full loads at the end of your practice to stay familiar.
Kramer made me an IWB holster for it.
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RedBerens
Member
I shoot it in all of my J-frames, including an airweight model 37-2 I picked up two years ago. Don't be fooled by their size - they are tough little guns.
tom turner
US Veteran
It's not a problem. I have hundreds of rounds of 158 gn. LSWC-HP +P on hand . . . the "classic" FBI load from years ago that's still a BAAAAAD round in a snubby.
That being said, I don't feel that this is the most important factor in what ammo I use in my J-frame.
No, my criteria is this:
1. What round shoots tight groups AND accurately to point of aim?
2. What round has gentle enough recoil characteristics to allow me to fire quick multiple double action rounds if necessary and ALSO allow me to get back on target in minimal time.
Shooting flamethrower rounds out of a snubbie may seem macho, but if the barrel ends up pointing at the sky and the gun has torqued in your hand so your grip and trigger control changes . . . what good or five sloppy shots with a trigger finger that's pulling you off target.
(I usually carry 148 gn. flat WADCUTTERS in my Model 37 "always" gun . . . a surprisingly good round that is super accurate and that shoots dead on at my normal expected distance for self defense.
If I HAVE to shoot to defend myself, time + control + accuracy + speed are my friends.
That being said, I don't feel that this is the most important factor in what ammo I use in my J-frame.
No, my criteria is this:
1. What round shoots tight groups AND accurately to point of aim?
2. What round has gentle enough recoil characteristics to allow me to fire quick multiple double action rounds if necessary and ALSO allow me to get back on target in minimal time.
Shooting flamethrower rounds out of a snubbie may seem macho, but if the barrel ends up pointing at the sky and the gun has torqued in your hand so your grip and trigger control changes . . . what good or five sloppy shots with a trigger finger that's pulling you off target.
(I usually carry 148 gn. flat WADCUTTERS in my Model 37 "always" gun . . . a surprisingly good round that is super accurate and that shoots dead on at my normal expected distance for self defense.
If I HAVE to shoot to defend myself, time + control + accuracy + speed are my friends.
very well said...........and right on target!!
also, when you practice, include single hand grip, DAO, with both the strong and weak hand. your practice sessions should consist of 60% weak hand....40% strong hand.
I posted this in the "ammo" forum...
I've been carrying a j frame for the better part of the past 28 years. In my younger days and off duty it was a 2" model 36 (I still have it with original grips and a tyler). Now in retirement I still carry a j frame, but its a 642-1.
The ammo that I've found most accurate and reliable for me is Federal 125 Nyclad in standard 38. (yes, it is available, though you have to be diligent in looking for it)
For the purposes of this firearm and its defensive nature, a standard 38 for me makes the most sense. If I ever need to use deadly physical force, it will almost certainly be at "bad breath" length. Now living in South Florida, I'm not concerned about a perp wearing a leather jacket (or four layers of denim). In the low risk lifestyle I now lead, my personal protection needs would most likely be in parking lots, atms's, etc....where a bad guy would see this older guy with a limp and see a potential victim.
I've found that the Federal Nyclad 125 in standard 38 shoots true to point of aim within 7 yards, with minimal recoil. The ballistics for this round are more than adequate for me, considering shot placement is paramount. It's a proven, time tested round.
I've tried Gold Dot 135+p short barrel, assorted 158 gr standard loads and +p loads, and others...but I've found these nyclad 125's work best for me. Less felt recoil, more accurate follow up shots.
Now if I may editorialize for a moment...when you are at a range practicing, please practice single handed off balance shooting. If you are carrying a concealed firearm for true personal protection, please know how to use it in the way it will be used if called for. You won't be taking a proper stance. Your breathing won't be smooth and easy. You won't be using your sights at all and you won't be gently squeezing the trigger. From a distance of 3-6 feet you will be pointing and shooting, most likely single handed, off balance and possibly moving.
IMHO, the 642-1 with Federal Nyclad 125's are as close to a perfect defensive combination as there is.
I've been carrying a j frame for the better part of the past 28 years. In my younger days and off duty it was a 2" model 36 (I still have it with original grips and a tyler). Now in retirement I still carry a j frame, but its a 642-1.
The ammo that I've found most accurate and reliable for me is Federal 125 Nyclad in standard 38. (yes, it is available, though you have to be diligent in looking for it)
For the purposes of this firearm and its defensive nature, a standard 38 for me makes the most sense. If I ever need to use deadly physical force, it will almost certainly be at "bad breath" length. Now living in South Florida, I'm not concerned about a perp wearing a leather jacket (or four layers of denim). In the low risk lifestyle I now lead, my personal protection needs would most likely be in parking lots, atms's, etc....where a bad guy would see this older guy with a limp and see a potential victim.
I've found that the Federal Nyclad 125 in standard 38 shoots true to point of aim within 7 yards, with minimal recoil. The ballistics for this round are more than adequate for me, considering shot placement is paramount. It's a proven, time tested round.
I've tried Gold Dot 135+p short barrel, assorted 158 gr standard loads and +p loads, and others...but I've found these nyclad 125's work best for me. Less felt recoil, more accurate follow up shots.
Now if I may editorialize for a moment...when you are at a range practicing, please practice single handed off balance shooting. If you are carrying a concealed firearm for true personal protection, please know how to use it in the way it will be used if called for. You won't be taking a proper stance. Your breathing won't be smooth and easy. You won't be using your sights at all and you won't be gently squeezing the trigger. From a distance of 3-6 feet you will be pointing and shooting, most likely single handed, off balance and possibly moving.
IMHO, the 642-1 with Federal Nyclad 125's are as close to a perfect defensive combination as there is.
dakasat
Member
Gold Dot 135 +p HP shoots just fine in mine...
photoman
Member
Nothing wrong with using +P ammo in your gun but do be honest with yourself and use the ammo that you shoot best. Most persons will shoot J frames much better when using standard pressure ammo.
I have been using the Buffalo Bore 158gr LSWCHP with good results. It's a pretty stout load in a j frame so you need some practice with it.
I also tried the backwards hollow base wadcutter once for fun but I think you would almost have to be touching the target to get a hit.
I also tried the backwards hollow base wadcutter once for fun but I think you would almost have to be touching the target to get a hit.
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