What is the difference between 38 Special and 38 P?
The 38 Special and 38 P are two popular calibers in the firearms industry, often used in revolvers and pistols. While they share the same numerical designation, there are several key differences between the two that set them apart.
Firstly, the 38 Special is a rimmed, centerfire cartridge designed for revolvers. It was introduced by Smith & Wesson in 1898 and quickly gained popularity due to its effectiveness in various law enforcement and civilian applications. The 38 Special is capable of delivering a significant amount of power, making it suitable for self-defense and hunting. It typically has a bullet weight ranging from 125 to 158 grains and a muzzle velocity of around 900 to 1,000 feet per second.
On the other hand, the 38 P, also known as the 38 Short and Full Moon, is a rimless, centerfire cartridge. It was developed by Colt’s Patent Fire Arms Manufacturing Company in 1902 and is primarily used in revolvers. The 38 P is a smaller and lighter cartridge compared to the 38 Special, with a bullet weight ranging from 85 to 95 grains and a muzzle velocity of approximately 700 to 800 feet per second. This makes it less powerful and less suitable for self-defense and hunting applications.
One of the main differences between the two calibers is their case capacity. The 38 Special has a larger case capacity, which allows for more powder and, consequently, more energy. This results in a higher velocity and greater stopping power. In contrast, the 38 P has a smaller case capacity, which limits the amount of powder and energy that can be used, resulting in lower velocity and less stopping power.
Another difference lies in their availability and use. The 38 Special is widely available and used in a variety of firearms, including revolvers and semi-automatic pistols. It is a popular choice for concealed carry and home defense due to its manageable size and power. The 38 P, on the other hand, is less common and is primarily used in older revolvers. It is not as popular for modern applications due to its limited power and availability.
In summary, the main differences between the 38 Special and 38 P are their case capacity, power, and availability. The 38 Special is a rimmed, centerfire cartridge with greater stopping power and wider availability, making it a popular choice for various applications. The 38 P, a rimless, centerfire cartridge, is less powerful and less common, primarily used in older revolvers. Understanding these differences can help shooters make informed decisions when selecting the right caliber for their needs.
