38 Special Ammo
The most widely used revolver cartridge in the world is surely .38 Special ammo, a balanced caliber that offers solid all-around performance for target shooting and self-defense. While the traditional .38 Special load typically fires a 158 grain lead bullet at a relatively low velocity, modern self-defense ammo often opts for a lighter 110-130 grain projectile and a higher velocity approaching 1,000 feet per second. This is due to the nature of jacketed hollow point bullets, which expand more reliably at higher velocities. .38 Special cartridges can be fired in .357 Magnum revolvers, making them an excellent low-cost, low-recoil alternative choice for owners of such firearms.
.38 Special handguns are often used for concealed carry. Additionally, an LEO who is typically issued a semi-automatic pistol may choose to also carry a compact backup gun so he can perform a "New York Reload"--a quick switch from an empty primary weapon to a fully loaded secondary weapon. The .38 Special is a common caliber for this purpose.
While not historically accurate to the "Wild West" period, the .38 lends itself well to action shooting. Cowboy loads in .38 Special use bare lead in order to play nice with steel targets; they're also lighter-shooting than typical range ammo in order to help the user make fast, accurate shots without regard to stopping power.
You'll find 38 special ammunition frequently in-stock from CCI, Magtech, Federal, Winchester and other great brands here at Widener's. You can see all our available rounds for sale below.
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Speer Lawman 38 Special 158 Grain TMJ - 1000 Rounds
$408.85
$394.85
Product Type Ammo Manufacturer Speer Condition New Bullet Weight 158 Grain Bullet Type Total Metal Jacket (TMJ) Use Type indoor range shooting, plinking at the range, Subsonic Casing Type Brass Quantity 1000 Ammo Caliber 38 Special Manufacturer SKU 53899 Primer Type Boxer Magnetic No UPC Barcode 10076683538991 Cost Per Round 39.5ยข per round If you carry Speer Gold Dot hollow points, you can train realistically while saving a bundle with Speer Lawman ammunition. These .38 Special cartridges are designed to generate the same external ballistics and felt recoil as the corresponding Gold Dot load. They can be used in both .38 SPL and .357 Magnum revolvers.
Each round in this case of 1,000 fires a 158 grain total metal jacket bullet at 850 feet per second. TMJ bullets lack the exposed lead bases of FMJs and are safer to use indoors, as the bullet releases little to no lead when the cartridge is fired.
Speer ammo is loaded in Lewiston, Idaho using reloadable brass cases and non-corrosive CCI primers.
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Magtech 38 Special 158 Grain LRN โ 1000 Rounds
$412.85Product Type Ammo Manufacturer Magtech Condition New Bullet Weight 158 Grain Bullet Type Lead Round Nose (LRN) Use Type plinking at the range, Subsonic Casing Type Brass Quantity 1000 Ammo Caliber 38 Special Manufacturer SKU 38A Primer Type Boxer Magnetic No UPC Barcode 7891798542987 Cost Per Round 41.3ยข per round This .38 Special ammunition from Magtech is a great choice for general outdoor range use or cowboy action shooting. Each cartridge in this case of 1,000 fires a heavy 158 grain lead round nose bullet at a muzzle velocity of 755 feet per second. This is a light-recoiling target load ideal for both speed and accuracy.
The round nosed bullet used in this ammo is safe for the tubular magazines of popular carbines, but may not be permitted at all indoor ranges due to lead exposure concerns.
Magtech ammunition is loaded in Brazil by CBC, a defense contractor that produces all of its primers (all non-corrosive), propellant, and brass in-house to harness economies of scale and maintain strong quality control. -
Sellier & Bellot 38 Special 158 Grain FMJ - 1000 Rounds
$419.85Product Type Ammo Manufacturer Sellier & Bellot Condition New Bullet Weight 158 Grain Bullet Type Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) Use Type plinking at the range, Subsonic Casing Type Brass Quantity 1000 Ammo Caliber 38 Special Manufacturer SKU SB38P Primer Type Boxer Magnetic No UPC Barcode 754908505487 Cost Per Round 42ยข per round When you want something highly reliable and proven over a century of military, law enforcement, and civilian service, then choose the .38 Special. Developed by Smith & Wesson in 1898, this round has been used all over the world for a plethora of purposes since its beginnings and remains a great, low recoil round for both keeping yourself safe and taking to the range to practice your shooting skills.
Sellier and Bellot have been making ammunition for over one hundred years and are one of the best ammo companies in Eastern Europe, creating high-quality ammunition for people all over the world. These 158-grain full metal jacket, brass cased, Boxer primed rounds fire at 889 feet per second and have the precision and dependability you need when training at the range.
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PMC Bronze 38 Special 132 Grain FMJ - 1000 Rounds
$429.85Product Type Ammo Manufacturer PMC Condition New Bullet Weight 132 Grain Bullet Type Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) Use Type plinking at the range, Subsonic Casing Type Brass Quantity 1000 Ammo Caliber 38 Special Manufacturer SKU 38G Primer Type Boxer Magnetic No UPC Barcode 90741569070105 Cost Per Round 43ยข per round This .38 Special ammunition from PMC fires full metal jacket bullets that comply with many indoor range rules (unlike lead round nose loads) and produce relatively minimal fouling in the barrel of your revolver. They are a cost-effective and accurate choice for your target shooting activities.
Each round in this bulk priced case of 1,000 (perfect for high volume shooters) fires a medium weight 132 grain FMJ at a muzzle velocity of 917 feet per second. This is a medium power load producing average recoil. As with most .38 Special ammo, these cartridges can be fired in .357 Magnum revolvers as a cost-effective, lower-recoiling alternative to the magnum cartridge.
PMC's Bronze series is a popular choice for low-cost range use due to its consistent quality. It is loaded in South Korea using non-corrosive primers and reloadable brass cases.Customer Reviews
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Smooth Fire
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Never used PMC before but find them to be an eazy fire bullet with minimum powder left inside barrell. True to target
Review by JP (Posted on 6/16/2022)
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Magtech 38 Special 125 Grain FMC Flat โ 1000 Rounds
$439.85Product Type Ammo Manufacturer Magtech Condition New Bullet Weight 125 Grain Bullet Type Full Metal Jacket Flat Nose (FMJFN) Use Type plinking at the range, Subsonic Casing Type Brass Quantity 1000 Ammo Caliber 38 Special Manufacturer SKU 38Q Primer Type Boxer Magnetic No UPC Barcode 754908184101 Cost Per Round 44ยข per round The 38 Special has been around since the late 1800's and remains a great range and self defense round to this day. Used by civilians, militaries, and law enforcement agencies all over the world, this round has more than shown its reliability and effectiveness.
Operating out of Brazil, Magtech is a member of the CBC Group who also manages MEN and Sellier & Bellot. Using only the best equipment and manufacturing all of their components in house, Magtech has earned a reputation for phenomenal quality control and producing reliable products.
These 38 Special rounds feature 125 grain full metal case flat point projectiles that are propelled to a muzzle velocity of 938 feet per second. Each bullet is pressed into a boxer primed, brass casing that can be reloaded. These are great rounds for inexpensive range training. In addition, the projectiles are completely encased with copper, minimizing barrel leading and air pollution when shooting, making for cleaner, safer, range training.
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Magtech 38 Special 158 Grain LRN - 50 Rounds
$22.85Product Type Ammo Manufacturer Magtech Condition New Bullet Weight 158 Grain Bullet Type Lead Round Nose (LRN) Use Type plinking at the range, Subsonic Casing Type Brass Quantity 50 Ammo Caliber 38 Special Manufacturer SKU 38A Primer Type Boxer Magnetic No UPC Barcode 754908105014 Cost Per Round 45.7ยข per round Looking for a target or cowboy action load for your .38 Special revolver or carbine? Grab a few of these boxes from Magtech. This ammunition is a light-shooting target load designed for rapid, accurate fire.
Each round in this box of 50 fires a 158 grain lead round nose bullet at 755 feet per second, producing mild recoil and great accuracy at typical pistol shooting distances. The bullet is safe for tubular magazines, but due to its bare lead design may not be permitted at all indoor ranges.
Magtech ammunition is loaded in Brazil and uses reloadable brass cases and non-corrosive Boxer primers. The components are produced in-house to ensure better quality control. -
Blazer Brass 38 Special 125 Grain FMJ - 1000 Rounds
$459.89Product Type Ammo Manufacturer Blazer Brass Condition New Bullet Weight 125 Grain Bullet Type Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) Use Type plinking at the range, Subsonic Casing Type Brass Quantity 1000 Ammo Caliber 38 Special Manufacturer SKU 5204 Primer Type Boxer Magnetic No UPC Barcode 10076683052046 Cost Per Round 46ยข per round The 38 Special was invented in 1898 by Smith & Wesson and was used during both World Wars by nations around the globe. With the fantastic efficacy, stopping power, and reliability this round provides, as well as its manageable recoil, the 38 Special remains a popular handgun round today for range training and self defense, providing a proven, historic round for all your handgun shooting needs.
Blazer Brass is a fantastic company based in the United States that is partnered with the likes of CCI, Speer, and Federal, some of the best ammunition manufacturers in America, helping show just how amazing Blazer Brass's ammo is. Firing at 865 feet per second, these 125 grain, brass cased, boxer primed, full metal jacket rounds fly straight and true and with fantastic reliability, perfect for practicing your skills at the range.
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Sellier & Bellot 38 Special 158 Grain FMJ - 50 Rounds
$24.85Product Type Ammo Manufacturer Sellier & Bellot Condition New Bullet Weight 158 Grain Bullet Type Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) Use Type plinking at the range, Subsonic Casing Type Brass Quantity 50 Ammo Caliber 38 Special Manufacturer SKU SB38P Primer Type Boxer Magnetic No UPC Barcode 754908500482 Cost Per Round 49.7ยข per round The 38 Special is a fantastic round for all your handgun shooting needs that was invented by Smith & Wesson in 1898 and has been used all over the world for military, police, and civilian service, proving itself to everyone. Whether you are looking for something for self-defense or to practice with at the range, the 38 Special has the low recoil and the efficacy you need to get the job done.
Sellier & Bellot have been around since the 1800's and continue to provide the world with fantastic ammo from their plant in the Czech Republic as one of the best ammunition manufacturers in Eastern Europe. Firing at 889 feet per second, these 158-grain, full metal jacket, brass cased, Boxer primed rounds are perfect for honing your skills at the range, helping you become the best shot you can be.
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PMC Bronze 38 Special 132 Grain FMJ - 50 Rounds
$24.85Product Type Ammo Manufacturer PMC Condition New Bullet Weight 132 Grain Bullet Type Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) Use Type indoor range shooting, match or precision shooting, plinking at the range, Subsonic Casing Type Brass Quantity 50 Ammo Caliber 38 Special Manufacturer SKU 38G Primer Type Boxer Magnetic No UPC Barcode 741569070102 Cost Per Round 49.7ยข per round Enjoy inexpensive, clean shooting with this .38 Special ammunition from PMC. These cartridges come loaded with a full metal jacket bullet that produces less fouling and airborne lead than lead round nose projectiles and can be shot at indoor ranges that prohibit the use of LRNs.
Each cartridge in this box of 50 propels a 132 grain full metal jacket bullet at a muzzle velocity of 917 feet per second. This is a standard pressure load that can be fired in older or snubnose revolvers. It can also be used in .357 Magnum revolvers as a cost-effective training alternative.
PMC ammo is loaded in South Korea using reloadable brass cases and non-corrosive Boxer primers.Customer Reviews
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Great Ammo
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Clean fireing, always on Target
Review by JP (Posted on 6/18/2022)
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Federal Champion 38 Special 130 Grain FMJ โ 50 Rounds
$24.85Product Type Ammo Manufacturer Federal Condition New Bullet Weight 130 Grain Bullet Type Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) Use Type plinking at the range Casing Type Brass Quantity 50 Ammo Caliber 38 Special Manufacturer SKU C38130A Primer Type Boxer Magnetic No UPC Barcode 604544696578 Cost Per Round 49.7ยข per round Can you imagine a Southern Rock band named โ22 LR,โ โ32 ACP,โ or โ475 Linebaugh?โ Try as you might, you canโt. Those names just donโt fit somehow.
But โ38 Special?โ Now thereโs a proper name for the kind of band that sings about unindentured fowl. And it just so happens to be the kind of ammo youโre looking for today, too!
Federal Premiumโs Champion label ammunition is all business. Itโs loaded with all of its manufacturerโs highest-quality target grade components, including shiny new reloadable cases and clean-sparking powder/primers. Most significantly, this ammo is loaded with 130 grain plated full metal jacket bullets. Pro? They are more cost-effective than the true jacketed alternative, which has a welcome effect on this ammoโs price tag. Con? The plated jacket isnโt compatible with ported barrels โ or ported compensators โ as a port may slice a piece of it off and deflect it back at the shooter. -
Speer Lawman 38 Special 125 Grain TMJ โ 1000 Rounds
$499.85Product Type Ammo Manufacturer Speer Condition New Bullet Weight 125 Grain Bullet Type Total Metal Jacket (TMJ) Use Type indoor range shooting, plinking at the range, Subsonic Casing Type Brass Quantity 1000 Ammo Caliber 38 Special Manufacturer SKU 53733 Primer Type Boxer Magnetic No UPC Barcode 10076683537338 Cost Per Round 50ยข per round If you like to shoot your revolver indoors or carry Gold Dot hollow points, try Speer Lawman ammunition. These .38 Special cartridges produce the same recoil and external ballistics as their Gold Dot cousins without the expense of a sophisticated hollow point projectile. They can be used in both .38 SPL and .357 Magnum pistols.
Each round in this bulk priced case of 1,000 fires a 125 grain total metal jacket bullet at 863 feet per second. TMJ bullets have jackets that fully encapsulate the core and keep lead particles from escaping as the round is fired. This is beneficial anywhere, but provides the most safety benefit where ventilation is suboptimal.
Speer ammo is loaded in Lewiston, Idaho using non-corrosive Boxer primers and reloadable brass cases. Speer is a division of Vista Outdoor, which also includes CCI, Federal, and many other top shooting-related brands.
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Fiocchi 38 Special 158 Grain FMJ โ 1000 Rounds
$508.85Product Type Ammo Manufacturer Fiocchi Condition New Bullet Weight 158 Grain Bullet Type Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) Use Type plinking at the range, Subsonic Casing Type Brass Quantity 1000 Ammo Caliber 38 Special Manufacturer SKU 38GFOA Primer Type Boxer Magnetic No UPC Barcode 762344860374 Cost Per Round 50.9ยข per round Target shooters will appreciate the accuracy and reliable performance of this .38 Special ammunition from Fiocchi. These cartridges can also be used in .357 Mag revolvers as a lower cost, lower recoil alternative to magnum rounds.
Each round in this case of 1,000 fires a heavy 158 grain full metal jacket bullet at 930 feet per second. This is a relatively powerful configuration compared to other standard pressure loads, making it a good substitute for expensive self-defense ammo at the range.
Fiocchi ammo is made in both the USA and Italy using non-corrosive primers and reloadable brass cases.
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Prvi Partizan 38 Special 130 Grain FMJ - 50 Rounds
$25.55Product Type Ammo Manufacturer Prvi Partizan Condition New Bullet Weight 130 Grain Bullet Type Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) Use Type plinking at the range, Subsonic Casing Type Brass Quantity 50 Ammo Caliber 38 Special Manufacturer SKU PPH38SF Primer Type Boxer Magnetic No UPC Barcode 8605003813071 Cost Per Round 51.1ยข per round The .38 Special has become one of the most popular handgun rounds in the U.S., and few can claim a product as good as Prvi Partizan, a leader in global ammunition manufacturing.
With a 130-grain bullet, this is the smallest .38 Special round made by Prvi Partizan, which makes 9 different cartridges of this type. Because of the smaller size, it has less energy but greater down-range accuracy. At 50 meters, it only drops 5.9 centimeters. By comparison, the 158-grain rounds drop about 7.6. This round uses a full metal jacket, which allows for greater penetration and provides excellent feeding into auto-loading chambers.
With over 40 different calibers and options for both rifle and handguns, Prvi Partizan has become a popular brand for both target shooters and hunters. They have a meticulous inspection process that has helped them create ammunition that is reliable and consistent.
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Federal American Eagle 38 Special 130 Grain FMJ โ 1000 Rounds
$519.85Product Type Ammo Manufacturer Federal Brand American Eagle Condition New Bullet Weight 130 Grain Bullet Type Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) Use Type plinking at the range, Subsonic Casing Type Brass Quantity 1000 Ammo Caliber 38 Special Manufacturer SKU AE38K Primer Type Boxer Magnetic No UPC Barcode 50029465091908 Cost Per Round 52ยข per round Stock up on high quality .38 Special ammo for your favorite wheel guns with this 1000 round bulk pack from Federal. Federal's American Eagle line is known for closely copying its top-shelf ammo while offering a lower price for the end user. Federal Premium ammunition is well known for high quality and consistency along with some of the strongest innovations in defensive and hunting rounds. Their ammo has been trusted by the U.S. shooting team to take to the Olympics and bring home gold medals.
These .38 special cartridges are standard pressure and will work great in both your .357 and .38 revolvers. They are constructed using non-corrosive Boxer primers fitted into reloadable brass casings and topped off by full metal jacket (FMJ) projectiles. The bullets weigh in at 130 grains which is a medium weight for the caliber and will be pleasant to shoot in frames of any size or material. The bullets have an added advantage of being crimped to their toothed cannelures to prevent excess vibration from dislodging bullets of unfired cartridges while they are in cylinder.
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Remington UMC 38 Special 130 Grain MC โ 1000 Rounds
$519.85Product Type Ammo Manufacturer Remington Condition New Bullet Weight 130 Grain Bullet Type Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) Use Type plinking at the range, Subsonic Casing Type Brass Quantity 1000 Ammo Caliber 38 Special Manufacturer SKU L38S11A-23731 Primer Type Boxer Magnetic No UPC Barcode 47700386041 Cost Per Round 52ยข per round This 38 Special cartridge is from Remingtonโs UMC division. They specialize in making only a select few types of popular rounds, so theyโre able to sell in the quantities that allow them to keep their customersโ prices low. This round has got the metal case projectile for which UMC is so well-known -- itโs functionally no different from a full metal jacket, and accordingly prevents bore fouling while keeping feeding smooth in a semi-automatic weapon.
This round has got Remingtonโs Kleanbore primer. Your pistolโs bore will be much better off in the long run for having been exposed to so clean burning a primer, and that itโs non-corrosive means you can confidently set this case of ammo aside for a very long time. This round has also got the kind of quality brass casing that reloading enthusiasts covet.
Itโs worth noting that these 1,000 rounds of ammo are split up among only four boxes. That makes things a little more convenient while youโre carrying all of your gear to the range, having to bring only one box rather than several. A big box is also very handy for storing reloads in. -
Magtech 38 Special Short 125 Grain LRN โ 1000 Rounds
$524.85Product Type Ammo Manufacturer Magtech Condition New Bullet Weight 125 Grain Bullet Type Lead Round Nose (LRN) Use Type plinking at the range, Subsonic Casing Type Brass Quantity 1000 Ammo Caliber 38 Special Manufacturer SKU 38G Primer Type Boxer Magnetic No UPC Barcode 754908164400 Cost Per Round 52.5ยข per round An excellent choice if you're in search of a great 38 Special round for plinking at the range, Subsonic. This New Magtech ammo comes loaded with a 125 Grain Lead Round Nose (LRN) along with a Boxer primer that's loaded in a Brass case. With this package, you'll receive 1000 rounds ready to fire. Plus, you know it'll come fast from our warehouse to your door because we know shooting ammo is a lot more fun than looking at it online or waiting on delivery! -
Remington UMC 38 Special 130 Grain MC โ 250 Rounds
$134.85Product Type Ammo Manufacturer Remington Condition New Bullet Weight 130 Grain Bullet Type Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) Use Type plinking at the range, Subsonic Casing Type Brass Quantity 250 Ammo Caliber 38 Special Manufacturer SKU L38S11A-23731 Primer Type Boxer Magnetic No UPC Barcode 47700386003 Cost Per Round 53.9ยข per round This 38 Special cartridge from Remingtonโs UMC line of ammunition sports a 130 grain metal case projectile. Tell your friends that youโre shooting so exotically named a bullet and youโll surely win admiration from some of them. The ones who know that a metal case is 100 percent analogous to a vanilla full metal jacket will be somewhat less impressed, however. Regardless, a metal case bullet is perfect for the range owing to its affordability, ability to stave off bore leading, and tendency to plow through most types of targets -- even the more obstinate ones used for plinking.
UMC ammo features Remigntonโs own Kleanbore primer. It burns hot to do a good job of igniting as much of the propellant simultaneously as itโs able, and also burns clean to keep your pistolโs bore in better shape before you can get around to cleaning it. The 38 Special is a popular caliber with handloaders, so even if you donโt reload yourself you should save these roundsโ brass casings for someone who does. -
Remington UMC 38 Special 130 Grain FMJ โ 300 Rounds
$164.85Product Type Ammo Manufacturer Remington Condition New Bullet Weight 130 Grain Bullet Type Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) Use Type plinking at the range, Subsonic Casing Type Brass Quantity 300 Ammo Caliber 38 Special Manufacturer SKU L38S11BC-23669 Primer Type Boxer Magnetic No UPC Barcode 47700408705 Cost Per Round 54.9ยข per round Are you torn between buying a box or a case of 38 Special ammunition? Split the difference โ order a 300-round bucket instead! Remington UMC ammo hails from the USA and serves perfectly for all your range training and recreational shooting needs!
This cartridge is armed with a 130 grain bullet. Itโs not the heaviest chunk of metal you could seat in a 38 Spl case, which alongside the roundโs modest 800 fps muzzle velocity means youโll put up with comparably light recoil. The full metal jacket would make a poor choice for self-defense given its inability to deliver terminal expansion. But the FMJ is nonmagnetic, wears a cannelure to protect its seating depth, and ends in a flat nose profile that (A) stamps a tidier hole through paper, and (B) loads safely in a lever action.
Remingtonโs UMC series ammunition always represents an economical solution for range shooting, but it doesnโt deprive you of the clean-burning powder, non-corrosive Boxer primers and brand new reloadable brass cases you deserve when you place your faith in The Big R. -
Sellier & Bellot 38 Special 158 Grain LFN โ 50 Rounds
$27.85Product Type Ammo Manufacturer Sellier & Bellot Condition New Bullet Weight 158 Grain Bullet Type Lead Flat Nose Use Type plinking at the range, Subsonic Casing Type Brass Quantity 50 Ammo Caliber 38 Special Manufacturer SKU SB38L Primer Type Boxer UPC Barcode 754908500741 Cost Per Round 55.7ยข per round An excellent choice if you're in search of a great 38 Special round for plinking at the range, Subsonic. This New Sellier & Bellot ammo comes loaded with a 158 Grain Lead Flat Nose along with a Boxer primer that's loaded in a Brass case. With this package, you'll receive 50 rounds ready to fire. Plus, you know it'll come fast from our warehouse to your door because we know shooting ammo is a lot more fun than looking at it online or waiting on delivery! -
Magtech 38 Special 158 Grain SJHP โ 1000 Rounds
$559.85Product Type Ammo Manufacturer Magtech Condition New Bullet Weight 158 Grain Bullet Type Semi-Jacketed Hollow-Point (SJHP) Use Type home defense, Subsonic Casing Type Brass Quantity 1000 Ammo Caliber 38 Special Manufacturer SKU 38E Primer Type Boxer Magnetic No UPC Barcode 754908164707 Cost Per Round 56ยข per round 158-grain semi-jacketed hollow point (SJHP) loads are never a bad choice for self-defense in full-size revolvers or pocket-size wheel guns chambered in .38 Special. This particular SJHP projectile has a shallow hollow cavity carved into a lead nose with a flat surface and plenty of exposure, allowing for great energy transfer on contact and expansion that follows the pre-cut lines in the bullet's copper jacket. During entry, the bullet's expansion will cause it to yaw, depositing momentum in vitals while its cannelure prevents jacket separation, guaranteeing that adequate penetration, and thereby threat-stopping ability, is preserved.
The toothed cannelure also acts as a crimp point for a reloadable brass casing, preventing setback and movement from hurting accuracy or reliability after the cartridge experiences recoil vibrations in the cylinder. The brass casing is fitted with a non-corrosive Boxer primer that won't leave behind any caustic materials on metal surfaces. This ammo is made by Magtech, a Brazilian company that is dedicated to quality exports and uses some of the best machinery and quality control processes in the industry.
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Fiocchi 38 Special 158 Grain FMJ โ 50 Rounds
$28.85Product Type Ammo Manufacturer Fiocchi Condition New Bullet Weight 158 Grain Bullet Type Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) Use Type plinking at the range, Subsonic Casing Type Brass Quantity 50 Ammo Caliber 38 Special Manufacturer SKU 38GFOA Primer Type Boxer UPC Barcode 762344000992 Cost Per Round 57.7ยข per round A training load suitable for both indoor and outdoor ranges, this .38 Special ammunition from Fiocchi delivers strong performance at a reasonable price. It can be used in both .38 SPL and .357 Magnum revolvers.
Each cartridge in this 50-round box fires a heavy 158 grain full metal jacket bullet at a muzzle velocity of 930 feet per second. This ammo makes a good cost-saving target substitute for "hot" defensive JHPs, as it is more powerful than the typical target load.
Fiocchi ammo is made in the USA and Italy and uses reloadable brass cases and non-corrosive Boxer primers.
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Winchester USA 38 Special 130 Grain FMJ - 500 Rounds
$289.85Product Type Ammo Manufacturer Winchester Condition New Bullet Weight 130 Grain Bullet Type Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) Use Type plinking at the range, Subsonic Casing Type Brass Quantity 500 Ammo Caliber 38 Special Manufacturer SKU Q4171 Primer Type Boxer Magnetic No UPC Barcode 40020892201925 Cost Per Round 58ยข per round Load up your .38 SPL or .357 Magnum revolver with this .38 Special ammunition from Winchester! These cartridges fire full metal jacket bullets and can be used at almost all shooting ranges. They deliver good accuracy at a reasonable cost.
Each round in this case of 500 fires a 130 grain bullet at a muzzle velocity of 800 feet per second; this is a medium power load suitable for a wide variety of handguns.
Winchester ammo is made in Oxford, Mississippi and uses non-corrosive Boxer primers and reloadable brass cases.
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Magtech 38 Special 158 Grain SJHP - 50 Rounds
$29.85Product Type Ammo Manufacturer Magtech Condition New Bullet Weight 158 Grain Bullet Type Semi-Jacketed Hollow-Point (SJHP) Use Type home defense, plinking at the range, Subsonic Casing Type Brass Quantity 50 Ammo Caliber 38 Special Manufacturer SKU 38E Primer Type Boxer Magnetic No UPC Barcode 754908164714 Cost Per Round 59.7ยข per round Magtech has over nine decades of experience making ammo and performing intense inspections before export. Their imports are recognized in the U.S. for consistent performance and remarkable quality, making these .38 Special loads a ripe choice for concealed carry with a revolver or medium-size game hunting with a lever-action rifle. Each cartridge is assembled using a non-caustic Boxer primer, clean-burning powder, and a reloadable brass casing.
The casing is crimped to the toothed cannelure of SJHP (semi-jacketed hollow point) projectile for stability that offers repeatable accuracy while precluding setback-related malfunctions. The 158-grain bullet has a hollow cavity, flat lead lose, and segmented copper half-jacket which all contribute to dependable expansion at a wide spectrum of impact ranges. During entry into a threat or game target, the bullet will deform at a calculated rate with minimal weight loss, allowing it to penetrate into chest cavities before slowing down while it delivers excellent terminal energy.
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Speer Gold Dot 38 Special +P 125 Grain JHP โ 50 Rounds
$40.85
$29.85
Product Type Ammo Manufacturer Speer Condition New Bullet Weight 125 Grain Bullet Type Hollow-Point (HP) Use Type home defense, Subsonic Casing Type Nickel-Plated Brass Quantity 50 Ammo Caliber 38 Special Manufacturer SKU 53720 Primer Type Boxer Magnetic No UPC Barcode 76683537201 Cost Per Round 59.7ยข per round Do you prefer to carry a revolver for personal protection? Then youโre probably already a fan of the hallowed 38 Special โ as well as its overpressure variant, the 38 Special +P. But if you arenโt yet acquainted with Speer Gold Dot, then itโs high time you give it a shot.
This is some of the best self-defense ammo you can choose for a 38 Special or 357 Magnum revolver (and a great pick for hunting as well). The Gold Dot jacketed hollow point wears a true bonded jacket, which Speer creates by submerging an alloyed lead core in an electrified chemical bath. In addition to possessing a uniformly thick jacket which enhances accuracy, the Gold Dot is abnormally tough โ capable of conserving the vast majority of its weight if it has to rip through thick clothing or another barrier before accessing its target. And once its hollow point nose cavity connects with a soft medium, it commences exceptionally uniform terminal expansion.
Speer nestles their 125 grain Gold Dot in a nickel-plated brass case. Nickel reduces the force of friction so you can load and unload a cylinder quicker, and also shields the brass against corrosion. Nickel even makes the ammo shinier, which you might just appreciate if you ever have to find it in the dark in a hurry.
This is +P ammunition. Do not fire it in any firearm that isnโt rated for 38 Special +P. Itโs safe for all 357 Magnum firearms. -
Magtech +P 38 Special 125 Grain SJSP โ 50 Rounds
$29.85Product Type Ammo Manufacturer Magtech Condition New Bullet Weight 125 Grain Bullet Type Semi-Jacketed Soft-Point (SJSP) Use Type home defense, plinking at the range, Subsonic, varmint hunting Casing Type Brass Quantity 50 Ammo Caliber 38 Special Manufacturer SKU 38D Primer Type Boxer Magnetic No UPC Barcode 754908108015 Cost Per Round 59.7ยข per round 38 Special ammo complete with Brass cases and a Semi-Jacketed Soft-Point (SJSP) projectile. Manufactured by Magtech to the highest of standards with a Boxer primer and 125 Grain bullet, the quality components come together and add up to a round that's great for home defense, plinking at the range, Subsonic, varmint hunting. You'll get 50 rounds shipped fast when you order this today. -
Speer Gold Dot 38 Special +P 125 Grain JHP โ 1000 Rounds
$799.85
$599.85
Product Type Ammo Manufacturer Speer Condition New Bullet Weight 125 Grain Bullet Type Jacketed Hollow-Point (JHP) Use Type home defense, Subsonic Casing Type Nickel-Plated Brass Quantity 1000 Ammo Caliber 38 Special Manufacturer SKU 53720 Primer Type Boxer Magnetic No UPC Barcode 10076683537208 Cost Per Round 60ยข per round You want the best self-defense ammo for your 38 Special or 357 Magnum revolver โ or a proper load for that little lever-action varmint slayer youโve been known to carry around the farm. You are in luck! Weโve got a case of Speerโs law enforcement grade Gold Dot ammunition, and we can put your name on it in a matter of minutes.
The Gold Dot is more than just a jacketed hollow point. Thanks to the magic of electrochemical bonding, the Gold Dotโs jacket is soundly fused to its alloyed lead core. Heavy fabric, wallboard, even sheet metal โ the Gold Dot pierces all of these barriers so it can continue on and burrow deeply into its target. The Gold Dotโs hollow point is formed during two stages. The first sets the width it can expand to, while the second ensures it expands at a steady, predictable rate.
CCI primers and select propellant ensure that youโll get a super-predictable 945 fps muzzle velocity (Speer recorded this roundโs muzzle velocity with a 4โ vented barrel; expect a lower muzzle velocity if youโre firing a snub nose, or a faster one if youโre firing a lever-action varmint slayer). Nickel-plated brass cases are still reloadable, but theyโre also more corrosion resistant and smoother cycling than regular unplated brass.
This is +P ammunition. Do not fire it in any firearm that isnโt rated for 38 Special +P. Itโs safe for all 357 Magnum firearms. -
Magtech +P 38 Special 158 Grain SJHP โ 50 Rounds
$32.85Product Type Ammo Manufacturer Magtech Condition New Bullet Weight 158 Grain Bullet Type Semi-Jacketed Hollow-Point (SJHP) Use Type home defense, Subsonic Casing Type Brass Quantity 50 Ammo Caliber 38 Special Manufacturer SKU 38H Primer Type Boxer Magnetic No UPC Barcode 754908164813 Cost Per Round 65.7ยข per round An excellent choice if you're in search of a great 38 Special round for home defense, Subsonic. This New Magtech ammo comes loaded with a 158 Grain Semi-Jacketed Hollow-Point (SJHP) along with a Boxer primer that's loaded in a Brass case. With this package, you'll receive 50 rounds ready to fire. Plus, you know it'll come fast from our warehouse to your door because we know shooting ammo is a lot more fun than looking at it online or waiting on delivery! -
Black Hills Cowboy Action 38 Special 158 Grain CNL โ 50 Rounds
$43.85Product Type Ammo Manufacturer Black Hills Ammunition Condition New Bullet Weight 158 Grain Bullet Type Lead Flat Nose Use Type plinking at the range, Subsonic Casing Type Brass Quantity 50 Ammo Caliber 38 Special Manufacturer SKU DCB38N1 Primer Type Boxer Magnetic No UPC Barcode 612710107018 Cost Per Round 87.7ยข per round An excellent choice if you're in search of a great 38 Special round for plinking at the range, Subsonic. This New Black Hills Ammunition ammo comes loaded with a 158 Grain Lead Flat Nose along with a Boxer primer that's loaded in a Brass case. With this package, you'll receive 50 rounds ready to fire. Plus, you know it'll come fast from our warehouse to your door because we know shooting ammo is a lot more fun than looking at it online or waiting on delivery! -
Winchester WinClean 38 Special 125 Grain JSP โ 50 Rounds
$44.85Product Type Ammo Manufacturer Winchester Condition New Bullet Weight 125 Grain Bullet Type Jacketed Soft-Point (JSP) Use Type indoor range shooting, Subsonic Casing Type Brass Quantity 50 Ammo Caliber 38 Special Manufacturer SKU WC381 Primer Type Boxer Magnetic No UPC Barcode 20892211629 Cost Per Round 89.7ยข per round If most of your training takes place indoors, then be sure to protect your health by using ammo that leaves behind less lead in your personal area. These .38 Special rounds from Winchester's WinClean brand utilize lead-free primers that won't plague your breathing space with lead vapors. Each primer is installed at the base of a reloadable brass casing where it is designed to send a reliable spit of flame to a charge of clean-burning powder.
The top of the casing is loaded with a 125-grain jacketed soft point (JSP) bullet which has its base covered by its copper jacket; this construction keeps lead from fouling the barrel which makes for less particle transfer to your hands during cleaning and shooting. The JSP bullet also flattens out nicely against hard backstops for less chance of ricocheting fragments that could travel back up range. Winchester ammunition is manufactured using knowledge and expertise that have been developed for over 150 years.
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Hornady American Gunner 38 Special 125 Grain XTP JHP โ 250 Rounds
$229.85Product Type Ammo Manufacturer Hornady Condition New Bullet Weight 125 Grain Bullet Type XTP Use Type home defense, Subsonic Casing Type Brass Quantity 250 Ammo Caliber 38 Special Manufacturer SKU 90324 Primer Type Boxer Magnetic No UPC Barcode 10090255903246 Cost Per Round 91.9ยข per round Hornady didnโt load this 38 Special self-defense cartridge with just any old jacketed hollow point. Thatโs the eXtreme Terminal Performance โ an unconventionally capitalized JHP that possesses the jacket concentricity and core uniformity requisite for pinpoint accuracy.
The XTP doesnโt merely seek out its target. It also delivers deleterious terminal ballistics inside of it thanks to its drawn gilding metal jacket. The jacket becomes thinner the closer it gets to the XTPโs rim, and the notches surrounding that rim strategically weaken the bullet even further. Even at lower velocities, the XTP remains remarkably effective.
The XTPโs jacket features the cannelure it needs to avoid setback in a revolverโs cylinder or lever-action rifleโs magazine, and also covers the nose cavityโs rim to help avert a poorly timed feeding jam. Hornady builds their American Gunner rounds with more than just high-quality bullets. These cartridges include the primo reloadable brass cases, Boxer primers and clean-burning powder that assure dependably functionality in all 357 Mag/38 Spl firearms. (900 fps muzzle velocity recorded with 4โ test barrel.) -
Black Hills 38 Special 148 Grain HBWC โ 50 Rounds
$47.85Product Type Ammo Manufacturer Black Hills Ammunition Condition New Bullet Weight 148 Grain Bullet Type Hollow Back Wadcutter (HBWC) Use Type plinking at the range, Subsonic Casing Type Brass Quantity 50 Ammo Caliber 38 Special Manufacturer SKU D38N3 Primer Type Boxer Magnetic No UPC Barcode 612710124428 Cost Per Round 95.7ยข per round Invented in 1898 by Smith and Wesson, the .38 Special has been incredibly popular since its debut. Used throughout both World Wars as well as by law enforcement agencies and civilians all around the globe for over a century, the .38 Special is just the proven round you need for all your range training self defense needs. With its efficacy, low recoil, and dependability, you have everything you need.
Black Hills is just the company you want to buy from if you are looking for accurate and reliable ammo. For years, Black Hills has supplied every branch of the United States Military with the match grade ammunition they need. These hollow back wadcutter, 148 grain, brass cased, boxer primed rounds fire at 700 feet per second with supreme accuracy and make fantastic round holes in the target to make scoring a piece of cake. These rounds are just what you need for all your range training escapades, helping you be the best you can be.
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50rds - 38 Special Black Hills 125gr. +P Jacketed Hollow Point Ammo
$54.85Product Type Ammo Manufacturer Black Hills Ammunition Condition New Bullet Weight 125 Grain Bullet Type Jacketed Hollow-Point (JHP) Use Type home defense, Subsonic Casing Type Brass Quantity 50 Ammo Caliber 38 Special Manufacturer SKU D38N2 Primer Type Boxer Magnetic No UPC Barcode 612710100682 Cost Per Round $1.1 per round An excellent choice if you're in search of a great 38 Special round for home defense, Subsonic. This New Black Hills Ammunition ammo comes loaded with a 125 Grain Jacketed Hollow-Point (JHP) along with a Boxer primer that's loaded in a Brass case. With this package, you'll receive 50 rounds ready to fire. Plus, you know it'll come fast from our warehouse to your door because we know shooting ammo is a lot more fun than looking at it online or waiting on delivery! -
Federal Punch 38 Special +P 120 Grain JHP โ 200 Rounds
$229.85Product Type Ammo Manufacturer Federal Brand Punch Condition New Bullet Weight 120 Grain Bullet Type Jacketed Hollow-Point (JHP) Use Type home defense, Subsonic Casing Type Brass Quantity 200 Ammo Caliber 38 Special Manufacturer SKU PD38P1 Primer Type Boxer Magnetic No UPC Barcode 50004544659019 Cost Per Round $1.15 per round Do you carry a 38 Special revolver for self-defense? So long as itโs rated for +P (aka overpressure) ammunition, then this Minnesota-made Punch ammo by Federal Premium presents the perfect way to fill its chambers!
Its potent propellant charge may give this cartridge snappier recoil, but it also gives its bullet a faster muzzle velocity. At close range your revolver will dump over 250 ft lbs of energy into its target, which falls within the acceptable threshold for defensive shooting. The jacketed hollow pointโs soft lead core deforms easily when its nose cavity fills with pressurized soft tissue. Its copper-alloy jacket features skives that promote wider expansion following relatively low-velocity impact โ the driving force behind the Punch JHPโs reliable terminal ballistics!
Punch label ammo is specifically designed for civilian use. It doesnโt meet the criteria for barrier penetration set forth by the FBI test protocol, although it handles heavily clothed threats with all due efficacy. Federalโs brass cases deliver even after they have been reloaded a few times, and their sealed Boxer primers offer added assurance that youโll be able to defend yourself even after your self-defense loads have been exposed to moisture. -
Hornady Critical Defense 38 Special 110 Grain FTX โ 250 Rounds
$299.85Product Type Ammo Manufacturer Hornady Condition New Bullet Weight 110 Grain Bullet Type Flex-Tip-Technology (FTX) Use Type home defense, Subsonic Casing Type Brass Quantity 250 Ammo Caliber 38 Special Manufacturer SKU 90310 Primer Type Boxer Magnetic No UPC Barcode 10090255903109 Cost Per Round $1.2 per round If you're looking for a dependable carry load for your .38 SPL or .357 Magnum revolver, try Hornady Critical Defense ammunition. These .38 Special cartridges come in a case of 250 that allows for familiarization at the range as well as concealed carry.
Each round fires a light 110 grain Flex Tip (FTX) jacketed hollow point bullet at 1,010 feet per second. The Flex Tip is named for the soft polymer insert that sits at the tip of the bullet and keeps clothing, glass fragments, and other debris from interfering with the expansion cavity. Compared to other .38 loads, this ammo fires a light projectile at a high muzzle velocity and produces high diameter expansion.
Hornady Critical Defense ammo is made in the USA using non-corrosive primers and brass cases.
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Hornady Critical Defense 38 Special +P 110 Grain FTX โ 250 Rounds
$307.85Product Type Ammo Manufacturer Hornady Condition New Bullet Weight 110 Grain Bullet Type Flex-Tip-Technology (FTX) Use Type home defense, Subsonic Casing Type Brass Quantity 250 Ammo Caliber 38 Special Manufacturer SKU 90311 Primer Type Boxer Magnetic No UPC Barcode 10090255903116 Cost Per Round $1.23 per round A good revolver loaded with Hornady Critical Defense ammo is a trustworthy companion for self-defense. These .38 Special +P cartridges fire Flex Tip (FTX) jacketed hollow point bullets with a soft polymer insert that ensures debris will not clog the tip and prevent the petals from expanding. This ammo can be safely used in .357 Magnum revolvers.
Each round in this case of 250 fires a 110 grain version of the FTX at a muzzle velocity of 1,090 feet per second. This configuration results in strong expansion along with above-average recoil for this caliber--nothing that can't be overcome with proper training for most shooters!
Hornady Critical Defense ammunition uses durable reloadable brass cases and non-corrosive Boxer primers. It is made at Hornady's headquarters in Grand Island, Nebraska.
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Hornady Critical Defense Lite 38 Special 90 Grain FTX โ 250 Rounds
$309.85Product Type Ammo Manufacturer Hornady Condition New Bullet Weight 90 Grain Bullet Type Jacketed Hollow-Point (JHP) Use Type home defense Casing Type Brass Quantity 250 Ammo Caliber 38 Special Manufacturer SKU 90300 Primer Type Boxer Magnetic No UPC Barcode 10090255903000 Cost Per Round $1.24 per round Looking for a low recoil .38 Special load that still packs a serious punch? Try these cartridges from Hornady's Critical Defense Lite series.
This ammunition features the Flex Tip (FTX) jacketed hollow point bullet, which has a soft polymer insert in the expansion cavity to keep debris out and ensure that the petals unfold smoothly. Each round in this case of 250 fires a light 90 grain version of the FTX at a high muzzle velocity of 1,200 feet per second.
Critical Defense Lite ammo uses a variety of high-end components such as durable virgin brass, low-flash propellants, and reliable non-corrosive primers.
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Hornady 38 Special 110 Grain Critical Defense FTX - 25 Rounds
$31.85Product Type Ammo Manufacturer Hornady Condition New Bullet Weight 110 Grain Bullet Type Flex-Tip-Technology (FTX) Use Type home defense, Subsonic Casing Type Brass Quantity 25 Ammo Caliber 38 Special Manufacturer SKU 90310 Primer Type Boxer Magnetic No UPC Barcode 90255903102 Cost Per Round $1.27 per round When you are looking for highly-effective ammunition for your personal defense, order this 25-round box of .38 Special cartridges. Youโll get the performance, speed, and power you need thanks to a strong load backing these 110-grain Critical Defense FTX bullets. The Critical Defense FTX line is designed for controlled expansion and deep penetration, allowing you to protect your home, yourself, and your loved ones in a critical situation.
These .38 Special bullets come out of the barrel with an initial velocity of 1,010 feet per second and an energy of 249 foot pounds. Even at 50 yards, they still have a speed of 940 feet per second and an energy of 216 foot pounds, giving you reliable ballistics even at a distance.
Hornady is one of the top companies for hunting, target-shooting, and self-defense ammunition. Based out of Nebraska, this company has been providing top-quality ammo and shooting supplies since 1949.
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Hornady 38 Special 90 Grain FTX Critical Defense Lite FTX - 25 Rounds
$32.85Product Type Ammo Manufacturer Hornady Condition New Bullet Weight 90 Grain Bullet Type Jacketed Hollow-Point (JHP) Use Type home defense Casing Type Brass Quantity 25 Ammo Caliber 38 Special Manufacturer SKU 90300 Primer Type Boxer Magnetic No UPC Barcode 90255903003 Cost Per Round $1.31 per round Are you looking for a highly-effective 38 special ammunition that you can use for your personal protection? If you own a handgun that takes .38 Special ammo, order this 25-round box of rounds from Hornady and youโll have the accuracy, precision, and power you need for self defense situations. Critical Defense cartridges from Hornady are designed specifically for home defense, giving you reduced recoil, minimal flash, and excellent terminal performance.
The 90-grain bullet has a hollow tip that delivers controlled expansion. With a muzzle velocity of 1,200 feet per second and a muzzle energy of 288 foot pounds, these cartridges offer plenty of stopping power. They are excellent for small, lightweight revolvers thanks to the reduced recoil.
โจNo matter what your reason for owning a firearm, you can turn to Hornady for all of your ammunition needs. From protecting yourself and your loved ones to placing effective long-range hunting shots, Hornady has a full selection of reliable cartridges.
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Federal Hydra-Shok Deep 38 Special +P 130 Grain JHP โ 20 Rounds
$31.85Product Type Ammo Manufacturer Federal Brand Hydra-Shok Deep Condition New Bullet Weight 130 Grain Bullet Type Jacketed Hollow-Point (JHP) Use Type home defense, Subsonic Casing Type Nickel-Plated Brass Quantity 20 Ammo Caliber 38 Special Manufacturer SKU P38HSD1 Primer Type Boxer Magnetic No UPC Barcode 604544672794 Cost Per Round $1.59 per round Federal Premium Hydra-Shok Deep ammunition takes the time-tested performance of the Hydra-Shok projectile and makes it even more effective for self-defense applications. This 38 Special +P cartridgeโs 130 grain jacketed hollow point features a sturdier center post and more robust core that promote deeper penetration โ even if the bullet must pass through a barrier before arriving at the threat. And thanks to its aggressively notched jacket, the JHP also undergoes rapid and wide expansion which subdues the threat quickly.
This is overpressure ammunition. Itโs loaded to a higher-than-standard chamber pressure, which means it can destroy a 38 Special revolver if it isnโt rated for +P. Take care to only fire this ammo in firearms that are compatible with +P ammunition. Consult your firearmโs manual or manufacturer if you are uncertain.
Federalโs Minnesota-made ammunition features highly reliable Boxer primers, specially formulated clean-burning propellant, and top-shelf brass cases. The casesโ nickel plating makes them more reflective, safer against corrosion, and lower-friction to facilitate feeding into and extraction from a revolverโs chambers.
Shooter Resources at the Widener's Blog
Best 38 Special Ammo: Range Training & Home Defense
38 Special shooters are lucky - they have a lot of options when it comes to range training and self-defense ammo. If you need help finding the perfect ammo for you next range trip or for protection, check out this article with our expert recommendations for the best 38 special, no matter how you intend to use your ammo.
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