38 Special VS 38 Colt - 1851 Navy Cartridge Conversion

Published on January 1, 2024
Duration: 1:00

This guide compares .38 Colt and .38 Special wadcutter ammunition, detailing their distinct bullet styles, weights, velocities, and propellant types. It highlights the interchangeability of .38 Special wadcutters with .38 Colt in firearms capable of handling smokeless powder, particularly relevant for 1851 Navy cartridge conversions. The information is presented with expert authority, focusing on technical specifications and compatibility considerations.

Quick Summary

Expert comparison reveals .38 Colt uses a 129gr .358" black powder bullet at ~775-800 fps, while .38 Special Wadcutter employs a 148gr .357" smokeless powder recessed bullet at ~850 fps. Interchangeability in conversions like the 1851 Navy depends on the firearm's ability to handle smokeless powder pressures.

Chapters

  1. 00:00.38 Colt vs .38 Special Intro
  2. 00:15.38 Colt Specifications
  3. 00:27.38 Special Wadcutter Specifications
  4. 00:41Compatibility & Conversions

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 black powder round-nose bullet at 775-800 fps. In contrast, .38 Special Wadcutter features a .357 diameter, 148-grain recessed bullet with smokeless powder, achieving around 850 fps.

Can .38 Special ammunition be used in a .38 Colt firearm like an 1851 Navy cartridge conversion?

.38 Special Wadcutter is often interchangeable with .38 Colt, provided the firearm is specifically designed or converted to safely handle the higher pressures of smokeless powder. Older firearms may not be suitable.

What are the ballistic specifications for .38 Colt ammunition?

.38 Colt (later incarnations) generally used a .358-inch diameter bullet weighing around 129 grains, propelled by black powder to velocities between 775 and 800 feet per second.

What makes .38 Special Wadcutter ammunition distinct?

.38 Special Wadcutter uses a recessed 148-grain bullet with a .357-inch diameter, designed for target shooting. It utilizes smokeless powder, resulting in higher velocities (around 850 fps) compared to traditional .38 Colt loads.

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