The U.S. Army's failed replacement for the .45 Colt. Its inadequate stopping power led directly to the development of the .45 ACP.
Type: Revolver
Introduced: 1875, United States
Parent case: .38 Short Colt
Standardization: SAAMI
Bullet diameter: 0.357" (9.07 mm)
Case length: 1.031" (26.19 mm)
Overall length: 1.33" (33.78 mm)
Max pressure: 16,000 PSI
Rim type: Rimmed
Primer: Small Pistol
Typical twist rate: 1:18.75
Muzzle velocity: 650–770 fps
Muzzle energy: 140–200 ft-lbs
Effective range: 25 yd
Common bullet weights: 150 gr
Primary use: Military (Historical)
Production status: Active
Also known as: 38 Long Colt · .38 LC
History: Adopted by the U.S. Army in 1892 to replace the .45 Colt. Proved catastrophically ineffective during the Philippine-American War — insurgents on drugs reportedly required multiple hits to stop. This failure drove the Army toward larger calibers and ultimately the 1911.
Notable firearms: Colt New Army Revolver, Colt New Navy Revolver
Military use: {"country":"U.S. Army","years":"1892-1909"}
Similar cartridges: .38 Special, .38 Short Colt