.38 Super vs. .45 ACP

Attribute	.38 Super	.45 ACP
Caliber	.356 in (9.04 mm)	.451 in (11.5 mm)
Velocity	1,300-1,450 fps	830-1,000 fps
Energy	450-550 ft-lbs	350-500 ft-lbs
Recoil	Less than .45 ACP	More than .38 Super
Magazine Capacity	Usually higher	Usually lower

History

The .38 Super and .45 ACP are two popular handgun cartridges with distinct histories. The .45 ACP, also known as the .45 Auto, was developed by John Browning in 1904 for use in his Colt semi-automatic pistol. It was adopted by the United States military in 1911 and has since become one of the most iconic handgun cartridges in the world. On the other hand, the .38 Super was introduced in the 1920s as an improved version of the .38 ACP. It was designed to offer higher velocity and better penetration than its predecessor.

Ballistics

When it comes to ballistics, the .38 Super and .45 ACP have some key differences. The .38 Super typically fires a lighter bullet at a higher velocity than the .45 ACP. This results in flatter trajectories and better long-range performance for the .38 Super. On the other hand, the .45 ACP fires a heavier bullet with more energy, making it a better choice for self-defense and stopping power at close range.

Stopping Power

Stopping power is a crucial factor to consider when choosing between the .38 Super and .45 ACP. The .45 ACP is known for its excellent stopping power, thanks to its larger bullet diameter and heavier weight. It is often preferred by law enforcement and military personnel for its ability to quickly incapacitate a threat. On the other hand, the .38 Super, while still effective, may not deliver the same level of stopping power as the .45 ACP due to its smaller bullet size.

Recoil

Recoil is another important consideration when comparing the .38 Super and .45 ACP. The .45 ACP typically produces more felt recoil than the .38 Super due to its heavier bullet and higher energy. This can make it more challenging to shoot accurately, especially for shooters with less experience or smaller hands. On the other hand, the .38 Super offers lighter recoil, making it a more manageable option for shooters who are sensitive to recoil or looking for a more comfortable shooting experience.

Ammunition Availability

When it comes to ammunition availability, the .45 ACP has a clear advantage over the .38 Super. The .45 ACP is one of the most popular handgun cartridges in the world and is widely available at gun stores, sporting goods stores, and online retailers. This makes it easy for shooters to find and purchase .45 ACP ammunition for practice, competition, or self-defense. On the other hand, the .38 Super is less common and may be more challenging to find in stock at some locations.

Magazine Capacity

Magazine capacity is another factor to consider when choosing between the .38 Super and .45 ACP. Due to its larger bullet diameter and overall size, the .45 ACP typically has a lower magazine capacity compared to the .38 Super. This means that shooters may need to reload more frequently when using a .45 ACP handgun, which could be a disadvantage in certain situations. On the other hand, the .38 Super can often hold more rounds in a standard magazine, providing shooters with more firepower before needing to reload.

Accuracy

Accuracy is a critical factor for any shooter, and both the .38 Super and .45 ACP have their own strengths in this area. The .38 Super is known for its flat trajectory and high velocity, which can contribute to better accuracy at longer distances. Shooters who prioritize precision shooting or competition may prefer the .38 Super for its superior long-range performance. On the other hand, the .45 ACP, while typically producing more recoil, can still be accurate in the hands of a skilled shooter, especially at close to medium ranges.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the .38 Super and .45 ACP are both popular handgun cartridges with unique attributes that cater to different shooting preferences and needs. The .45 ACP offers excellent stopping power and reliability, making it a top choice for self-defense and law enforcement applications. On the other hand, the .38 Super provides superior ballistics and accuracy, making it a favorite among competitive shooters and enthusiasts. Ultimately, the best cartridge for you will depend on your shooting style, preferences, and intended use.