.38 Special Wadcutters At 100 Yards

Published on January 12, 2015
Duration: 5:33

This video tests the 100-yard accuracy of .38 Special Wadcutters using a Smith & Wesson Model 14 and a J-frame revolver. Roy Huntington demonstrates that barrel length has minimal impact on mechanical accuracy, with sight radius being the primary factor for precision. While the Model 14 achieved a hand-sized group, the J-frame showed increased vertical dispersion and keyholing, attributed to its shorter barrel and potentially different rifling.

Quick Summary

Testing .38 Special Wadcutters at 100 yards reveals that barrel length has minimal impact on mechanical accuracy; sight radius is key. A Smith & Wesson Model 14 achieved a hand-sized group, while a J-frame showed more dispersion and keyholing due to its shorter barrel.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: Long-Range Wadcutter Test
  2. 00:36Barrel Length vs. Accuracy Explained
  3. 01:41Ammunition: Federal & Black Hills Wadcutters
  4. 02:31100 Yard Range Demonstration
  5. 03:01Target Analysis: Model 14 vs. J-Frame
  6. 05:12Conclusion: Revolver Capability & Safety

Frequently Asked Questions

Can .38 Special Wadcutters be accurate at 100 yards?

Yes, .38 Special Wadcutters can achieve surprising accuracy at 100 yards. A Smith & Wesson Model 14 demonstrated a hand-sized group, proving that with the right firearm, ammunition, and technique, extended range accuracy is possible.

Does barrel length significantly impact handgun accuracy at 100 yards?

Barrel length itself has minimal impact on mechanical accuracy. The primary factor is the sight radius; longer barrels offer a longer sight radius, allowing for more precise sight alignment and easier detection of errors.

What causes 'keyholing' in handgun rounds at longer distances?

Keyholing occurs when a bullet tumbles through the air, creating a sideways impact on the target. This is often caused by insufficient stabilization, potentially due to a different rifling twist rate in shorter barrels not adequately spinning the bullet.

What type of .38 Special ammunition is recommended for accuracy tests?

For accuracy tests, mid-range target wadcutters like 148-grain Federal Gold Medal Match or Black Hills are recommended. These rounds offer high consistency and moderate velocity (around 750 fps), which aids in precision shooting.

Related News

All News →

More Reviews Videos You Might Like

More from GUNS and American Handgunner Magazines

View all →