This .38 Special ballistics gel test evaluated five different loads fired from a Smith & Wesson 642 snub-nose revolver. Only the Federal HST Micro and Hornady Critical Defense demonstrated reliable expansion, with the HST Micro showing a significant wound track despite shallower penetration. Lighter, expanding bullets appear more effective in short-barreled revolvers.
This ballistic gel test evaluates the Federal HST Micro 130gr .38 Special +P ammunition. Testing revealed that the snub-nose revolver achieved 16 inches of penetration with ideal expansion, while the 4-inch barrel yielded 13.5 inches of penetration. Despite lower velocity from the longer barrel, expansion was still effective.
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