.38 S&W 200 gr. bulleted loads...

by Alfred John, Saturday, September 27, 2014, 12:49 (3715 days ago) @ Hobie

The 38S&W 200 grain bullet loads for this cartridge can be fun. I had three revolvers for this cartridge and did some experimenting with loads. I used a .35 caliber 200 grain round nose jacketed rifle bullet, and a cast 200 grain bullet which was of similar size and weight. I loaded from what I could find listed for that weight. At a range I found the jacketed loads would not go through the treaded side of a radial tire, which was used in the back stop, it stuck with about 1/8 inch of the base still sticking out. The lead bullet did go through the same portion of the tire, laying inside the tire. Pretty weak velocity it seems. Never shot more to see if I could get something done. If I remember right the original government loads were lead bulleted, but this had to be changed due to complaints under the rules governing ammunition used in combat. The main thing like about the load was it was reported to tumble ort "Flip" when hitting a person. Was claimed to have performance equal to the larger caliber .455 bullet and the 45 ACP's. I guess they had to have a reason to get people to use it. I am no expert and don't claim to be. Hope all have a good day.
AJ