.38 Colt vs. .38 S&W

Attribute	.38 Colt	.38 S&W
Caliber	.38	.38
Case length	1.03 in (26 mm)	1.155 in (29.3 mm)
Overall length	1.52 in (39 mm)	1.55 in (39 mm)
Bullet diameter	.357 in (9.1 mm)	.361 in (9.2 mm)
Case type	Rimmed, straight	Rimmed, straight

History

The .38 Colt and .38 S&W cartridges have a long history in the world of firearms. The .38 Colt was introduced in 1875 by Colt's Manufacturing Company, while the .38 S&W was introduced in 1877 by Smith & Wesson. Both cartridges were designed for use in revolvers and have been popular choices for self-defense and law enforcement applications.

Size and Dimensions

One of the key differences between the .38 Colt and .38 S&W cartridges is their size and dimensions. The .38 Colt has a bullet diameter of .357 inches, while the .38 S&W has a slightly larger bullet diameter of .361 inches. Additionally, the overall length of the .38 Colt cartridge is 1.51 inches, while the .38 S&W cartridge is slightly shorter at 1.34 inches.

Ballistics

When it comes to ballistics, the .38 Colt and .38 S&W cartridges have some differences in terms of velocity and energy. The .38 Colt typically has a higher velocity and energy compared to the .38 S&W. This can result in better terminal performance and stopping power for the .38 Colt cartridge. However, the .38 S&W is known for its reliability and accuracy, making it a popular choice for target shooting and training.

Availability

In terms of availability, the .38 Colt and .38 S&W cartridges are both still in production today. However, the .38 Colt is less commonly found compared to the .38 S&W. This can make it more difficult to find ammunition for the .38 Colt, especially in certain regions or stores. On the other hand, the .38 S&W is more widely available and can be found at most gun shops and online retailers.

Recoil

Recoil is an important factor to consider when comparing the .38 Colt and .38 S&W cartridges. The .38 Colt typically has a slightly higher recoil compared to the .38 S&W. This can make the .38 Colt more challenging to shoot for some individuals, especially those with less experience or smaller stature. On the other hand, the .38 S&W is known for its manageable recoil, making it a popular choice for shooters of all skill levels.

Price

When it comes to price, the .38 Colt and .38 S&W cartridges can vary in cost depending on the brand and type of ammunition. Generally speaking, the .38 S&W tends to be more affordable compared to the .38 Colt. This can make the .38 S&W a more budget-friendly option for shooters who are looking to save money on ammunition costs. However, it's important to consider the overall quality and performance of the ammunition when making a purchasing decision.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the .38 Colt and .38 S&W cartridges each have their own unique attributes and characteristics that make them suitable for different applications. The .38 Colt offers higher velocity and energy, making it a powerful choice for self-defense purposes. On the other hand, the .38 S&W is known for its reliability and accuracy, making it a popular choice for target shooting and training. Ultimately, the best cartridge for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences as a shooter.