Hard Cast vs Hollow Point AMMO!....Snub Nose Self Defense!

Published on January 17, 2023
Duration: 13:21

This expert analysis compares Underwood's 125gr Bonded JHP Gold Dot and 158gr Hi-Tek Coated Hard Cast .38 Special +P ammunition fired from a 2-inch barrel Taurus 856 revolver. The tests included velocity measurements, ballistic gel penetration with clothing barriers, and projectile analysis. The Gold Dot demonstrated excellent expansion and controlled penetration, stopping within 15.25 inches, while the Hard Cast showed extreme penetration, exceeding 32 inches through multiple barriers, making it suitable for different applications.

Quick Summary

In a ballistic gel test with a 2-inch barrel Taurus 856, Underwood's 125gr Gold Dot .38 Special +P averaged 1021 fps, penetrated 14.25 inches, and expanded to nearly 0.6 inches. The 158gr Hard Cast averaged 1114 fps, exceeded 32 inches of penetration through multiple barriers, and retained all its mass.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro & Test Setup
  2. 00:42Ammunition Overview
  3. 01:34Firearm Used
  4. 02:00Gold Dot Velocity Test
  5. 03:17Hard Cast Velocity Test
  6. 04:29Velocity & Energy Comparison
  7. 05:00Ballistic Gel Test Prep
  8. 05:17Gold Dot Gel Impact
  9. 05:41Hard Cast Gel Impact
  10. 06:27Hard Cast Penetration & Wound Channel
  11. 07:02Gold Dot Penetration & Wound Channel
  12. 09:04Projectile Comparison
  13. 09:44Projectile Measurements (Weight)
  14. 10:16Projectile Measurements (Dimensions)
  15. 10:48Conclusion & Recommendations
  16. 11:24Final Thoughts & Call to Action

Frequently Asked Questions

How did Underwood's 125gr Gold Dot .38 Special +P perform in ballistic gel from a snub nose?

The 125gr Gold Dot averaged 1021 fps, achieved 14.25 inches of penetration, and expanded to nearly 0.6 inches. It showed excellent expansion and a good wound channel, making it a solid defensive choice.

What were the results for Underwood's 158gr Hard Cast .38 Special +P in ballistic gel?

The 158gr Hard Cast averaged 1114 fps and demonstrated extreme penetration, exceeding 32 inches through multiple barriers including a cinder block. It retained all its mass and showed minimal deformation, ideal for deep penetration needs.

Which .38 Special +P ammunition is better for self-defense: Hard Cast or Hollow Point?

For typical self-defense against human threats, the Hollow Point (like the Gold Dot tested) is generally preferred for its controlled expansion and wound channel. Hard Cast is better suited for deep penetration needs like hunting or animal defense.

What is the difference in muzzle energy between the tested .38 Special +P rounds?

The 125gr Gold Dot produced approximately 289 ft-lb of muzzle energy, while the heavier 158gr Hard Cast generated significantly more at 435 ft-lb, reflecting the difference in bullet weight and velocity.

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