38 Special VS 38 Colt - 1851 Navy Cartridge Conversion

Published on January 1, 2024
Duration: 1:00

This expert-level analysis from InRangeTV compares .38 Colt and .38 Special Wadcutter ammunition, detailing their distinct ballistic specifications. The comparison highlights differences in bullet diameter, weight, velocity, and propellant type, crucial for understanding their performance and interchangeability in firearms like the 1851 Navy Cartridge Conversion.

Quick Summary

.38 Special Wadcutter ammunition is largely interchangeable with .38 Colt, provided the firearm is designed to handle smokeless powder. This is particularly relevant for cartridge conversions like the 1851 Navy. .38 Colt uses a .358 diameter, 129-grain bullet with black powder (775-800 fps), while .38 Special Wadcutter uses a .357 diameter, 148-grain recessed bullet with smokeless powder (~850 fps).

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: .38 Colt vs .38 Special Wadcutter
  2. 00:15.38 Colt Specifications
  3. 00:27.38 Special Wadcutter Specifications
  4. 00:41Ammunition Interchangeability & 1851 Navy Conversion

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key differences between .38 Colt and .38 Special Wadcutter ammunition?

.38 Colt typically uses a .358 diameter, 129-grain bullet with black powder, yielding around 775-800 fps. .38 Special Wadcutter uses a .357 diameter, 148-grain recessed bullet with smokeless powder, achieving about 850 fps, offering more velocity and energy.

Can .38 Special Wadcutter ammunition be used in firearms chambered for .38 Colt?

Yes, .38 Special Wadcutter is generally interchangeable with .38 Colt, provided the firearm is capable of safely handling smokeless powder. This is especially relevant for cartridge conversion revolvers like the Colt 1851 Navy.

What are the ballistic specifications of .38 Colt ammunition?

Later versions of .38 Colt ammunition featured a .358-inch diameter bullet weighing 129 grains, propelled by black powder to velocities between 775 and 800 feet per second.

What are the ballistic specifications of .38 Special Wadcutter ammunition?

.38 Special Wadcutter ammunition uses a .357-inch diameter, 148-grain bullet that is recessed into the cartridge. It is typically loaded with smokeless powder, achieving muzzle velocities around 850 feet per second.

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