Quick Tip: .38 Super vs 9mm - What's the Difference?

Published on March 9, 2022
Duration: 5:10

The .38 Super and 9mm Luger are historically distinct but perform similarly with modern ammunition. While 9mm offers superior ammo availability and fits smaller grips, the .38 Super provides higher velocity, making it a favorite for handloaders and custom 1911 builds, especially in competition shooting.

Quick Summary

The .38 Super and 9mm Luger are similar but distinct. .38 Super, a higher-pressure evolution of .38 Automatic, offers 100-150 fps more velocity. Modern ammo narrows the gap, but 9mm is more practical due to availability and smaller grip sizes, while .38 Super appeals to handloaders and competition shooters.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: .38 Super vs 9mm
  2. 00:23Historical Origins of Both Rounds
  3. 01:06Evolution of the .38 Super Cartridge
  4. 02:01Modern Performance Comparison
  5. 03:13Practicality & Competition Use
  6. 04:06Final Recommendation: Which is Best?

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between .38 Super and 9mm Luger?

While both originated around 1900, the .38 Super is a higher-pressure round developed later for better penetration. Modern ammunition makes their performance very similar, though .38 Super typically remains 100-150 fps faster.

Is .38 Super or 9mm better for self-defense?

For most users, 9mm is recommended due to its widespread availability, lower cost, and compatibility with a wider range of firearms, including smaller, easier-to-conceal models.

Why is .38 Super still relevant?

.38 Super remains popular among handloaders and in competition shooting, particularly for custom 1911 builds. Its higher velocity offers potential advantages for specific applications.

Does .38 Super offer better penetration than 9mm?

Historically, the .38 Super was designed for better penetration against early body armor. With modern defensive loads, the difference is less pronounced, but the .38 Super generally maintains a velocity advantage.

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