2" & 3" .38SPL Gel Test Winchester Remington Corbon Standard & +P

Published on June 26, 2025
Duration: 34:25

This video provides a detailed ballistic gel test comparing Winchester Silver Tip, Remington HTP, and Corbon ammunition in .38 Special and .357 Magnum calibers across 2-inch and 3-inch barrel lengths. The instructor meticulously documents muzzle velocities, penetration depths, expansion diameters, and retained weights, including tests through four layers of denim. The analysis highlights performance differences, recoil characteristics, and offers recommendations based on expansion and penetration metrics.

Quick Summary

In ballistic gel tests, Corbon 125gr +P .38 Special ammunition generally provided the best penetration (up to 17.5 inches from a 3" barrel) and effective wound cavity damage, balancing expansion with higher velocity. Winchester Silver Tip offered lighter recoil but less consistent expansion, while Remington HTP reliably expanded but penetrated shallower.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does barrel length affect .38 Special ammunition performance in ballistic gel?

Increasing barrel length from 2 inches to 3 inches generally increases muzzle velocity by 40-100 ft/s. This leads to slightly improved penetration and more effective wound cavity damage across various .38 Special and +P loads, as observed in ballistic gelatin tests.

Which .38 Special ammunition performed best in ballistic gel tests from short barrels?

The Corbon 125gr +P JHP consistently offered the best penetration (up to 17.5 inches from a 3" barrel) and effective damage, balancing expansion with velocity. Winchester Silver Tip and Remington HTP showed good expansion but shallower penetration from 2" barrels.

Does denim affect the expansion of .38 Special ammunition?

Yes, denim can reduce expansion. While Remington HTP and Corbon showed expansion through four layers of denim from a 3-inch barrel, Winchester Silver Tip showed minimal expansion. Performance varied between barrel lengths and specific ammunition types.

What are the key differences between Winchester Silver Tip, Remington HTP, and Corbon .38 Special ammunition?

Winchester Silver Tip offers lighter recoil but less consistent expansion. Remington HTP provides reliable expansion but shallower penetration. Corbon delivers superior penetration and damage due to higher velocity, making it a strong self-defense choice, though with slightly more recoil.

Related News

All News →

More Training & Techniques Videos You Might Like

More from Buckeye Ballistics

View all →