.38 Special Wadcutters At 100 Yards

This guide details an experiment testing the accuracy of .38 Special Wadcutters at 100 yards using two different Smith & Wesson revolvers. It emphasizes that sight radius, not just barrel length, is crucial for accuracy. The demonstration, led by industry veteran Roy Huntington, highlights the surprising capability of small-frame revolvers when paired with quality ammunition and skilled shooting.

Quick Summary

Roy Huntington, publisher of American Handgunner, demonstrates that .38 Special Wadcutters can achieve a hand-sized group at 100 yards with a Smith & Wesson Model 14. He explains that sight radius, not just barrel length, is key to accuracy, and even small-frame revolvers can perform well at distance with the right ammo and skill.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Long-Range Wadcutters
  2. 00:36Barrel Length vs. Accuracy
  3. 01:41Ammunition and Equipment
  4. 02:31Range Demonstration
  5. 03:01Target Analysis
  6. 05:12Conclusion and Safety

Frequently Asked Questions

How does barrel length affect accuracy in revolvers?

Barrel length primarily impacts sight radius, which is the distance between the front and rear sights. A longer sight radius on a longer barrel allows for more precise sight alignment, making it easier to detect and correct aiming errors, thus improving accuracy.

What is the effective range for .38 Special Wadcutters?

While typically considered a mid-range target round, this test demonstrates that .38 Special 148-grain Wadcutters can achieve a hand-sized group at 100 yards with a suitable firearm like the S&W Model 14, showcasing surprising long-range potential.

Can small-frame revolvers be accurate at 100 yards?

Yes, small-frame revolvers can be surprisingly capable at 100 yards if paired with quality ammunition and shot with good technique. While they may exhibit more dispersion than larger-framed guns, accuracy is achievable, as shown in this test with a S&W J-frame.

What causes 'keyholing' in bullet impacts?

Keyholing occurs when a bullet tumbles in flight instead of maintaining a stable, point-first trajectory. This can be caused by factors like insufficient rifling twist rate for the bullet's design or velocity, leading to erratic flight and impacts on the target.

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