Home › Browse Calibers › .38 Spec.
Common uses: Self-Defense, Target
| Type | pistol (centerfire) |
| Typical load | 158gr Federal American Eagle LRN |
| Muzzle velocity | 770 fps |
| Muzzle energy | 208 ft-lb |
| Published G1 ballistic coefficient | 0.206 |
| Case length | 29.3 mm |
| Overall length | 39.4 mm |
| SAAMI max pressure | 17000 PSI |
| Common twist rate | 1:18.75" |
| Range (yd) | Velocity (fps) | Energy (ft-lb) | Drop (in) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | 770 | 208 | -1.5 |
| 50 | 745 | 195 | -2.3 |
| 100 | 722 | 183 | -18.7 |
| 150 | 700 | 172 | -51.9 |
The listed uses do not identify an explicit big-game hunting role, so deer- and elk-sized energy references aren't shown. Evaluate the named load using its available source data and any displayed trajectory, then verify the result for the listed target, competition, defensive, tactical, or duty context.
Your barrel, ammunition lot, and conditions will differ — always verify against the manufacturer's data and your own firearm.
The .38 Special is a rimmed, low-pressure revolver cartridge prized for its accuracy, modest recoil, and versatility, which is why it dominated police holsters for decades and remains a staple for target shooting and concealed carry. It is easy to shoot well, making it a common recommendation for new shooters and for small, lightweight snub-nosed revolvers used for personal defense. Its chief limitation is comparatively low velocity and energy in standard loadings, which spurred the development of higher-pressure +P ammunition and, ultimately, the more powerful .357 Magnum built on a lengthened version of the same case. Because .357 Magnum revolvers can also safely fire .38 Special, the round enjoys wide practical utility for practice and defense. Today it endures as a favorite range and carry cartridge with a deep selection of factory loads ranging from light target wadcutters to defensive hollow points.
The .38 Special was introduced by Smith & Wesson in 1898 as an improved, lengthened development of the earlier .38 Long Colt, which had performed poorly against determined adversaries during the Philippine-American War. Chambered in Smith & Wesson's Military & Police revolver, it went on to become the standard service cartridge of most American police departments from the 1920s into the 1990s. Its long service life, inherent accuracy, and mild manners have made it one of the most widely produced and enduring handgun cartridges ever designed.
Run this cartridge in the ballistic calculator · Compare it against another cartridge · How this data is produced