Classic revolver cartridge. Dominated police use for 70+ years. Mild recoil, accurate, reliable. Can be fired in .357 Magnum revolvers.
Type: Revolver
Introduced: 1898, United States
Parent case: .38 Long Colt
Standardization: SAAMI
Bullet diameter: 0.357" (9.07 mm)
Case length: 1.155" (29.34 mm)
Overall length: 1.55" (39.37 mm)
Max pressure: 17,000 PSI
Rim type: Rimmed
Primer: Small Pistol
Typical twist rate: 1:18.75
Muzzle velocity: 710–1000 fps
Muzzle energy: 200–310 ft-lbs
Effective range: 50 yd
Common bullet weights: 110, 125, 130, 148, 158 gr
Primary use: Self Defense, Target
Production status: Active
Also known as: .38 Spl · 9x29mmR
History: Introduced in 1898 by S&W as improvement over .38 Long Colt. Standard police cartridge from 1920s-1990s. Replaced by 9mm and .40 S&W autos.
Notable firearms: S&W Model 10, Colt Detective Special, Ruger LCR, S&W Model 36
Military use: {"country":"United States","years":"1920s-1990s","conflicts":["Various LE use"]}
Similar cartridges: .357 Magnum, 9mm Luger