Lindcott Armory Compare / .38 Special vs 9mm Luger
Cartridge comparison
.38 Special vs 9mm Luger
9mm Luger is faster (1,250 vs 1,000 fps); 9mm Luger carries more energy (400 vs 310 ft·lb); 9mm Luger recoils less.
.38 Special →Representative trajectory · 25 yd zero0–200 yd Open in Ballistic Compare ↗
9mm Luger →Representative trajectory · 25 yd zero0–200 yd Open in Ballistic Compare ↗
| .38 Special | 9mm Luger | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Revolver | Pistol |
| Introduced | 1898 | 1902 |
| Bullet ⌀ | 0.357″ | 0.355″ |
| Case length | 1.155″ | 0.754″ |
| Velocity | 710–1,000 fps | 990–1,250 fps |
| Energy | 200–310 ft·lb | 300–400 ft·lb |
| Max pressure | 17,000 psi | 35,000 psi |
| Recoil | 6–10 ft·lb | 5–8 ft·lb |
| Eff. range | 50 yd | 50 yd |
FAQs
- Is .38 Special faster than 9mm Luger?
- 9mm Luger is faster — up to 1,250 fps versus 1,000 fps.
- Does .38 Special hit harder than 9mm Luger?
- 9mm Luger carries more muzzle energy (400 vs 310 ft·lb).