Understanding the .38 Special P
The .38 Special’s Evolution
The .38 Special, born in the late 19th century, gained rapid popularity for its effectiveness in both law enforcement and personal defense. Its evolution took a significant turn with the introduction of the .38 Special P, representing a step-up in performance from the standard load. The addition of “P” signifies “Plus P,” indicating that these cartridges are loaded to higher pressures than the standard .38 Special. This translates to increased velocity and, consequently, greater kinetic energy upon impact, making it a more potent option for self-defense.
Distinguishing the Cartridges
It’s critical to recognize the distinction between these two types of ammunition. Standard .38 Special cartridges operate within a specific pressure range. .38 Special P ammunition, however, pushes these limits, producing higher chamber pressures. This is a critical consideration because not all firearms are designed to withstand these elevated pressures. Attempting to fire +P ammunition in a firearm not rated for it poses a serious risk of damage to the firearm and potential injury to the shooter or bystanders. Always consult the firearm’s manufacturer documentation to ensure that it is specifically rated for .38 Special P ammunition.
Advantages of the .38 Special P
The advantages of .38 Special P are quite notable. The increased velocity offered by .38 Special P translates to improved stopping power. The faster the bullet travels, the more energy it delivers upon impact, making it a more effective round in self-defense scenarios. This added power makes it a compelling choice for individuals seeking a more capable concealed carry option or those looking for greater assurance in personal protection.
Firearm Compatibility
Firearm compatibility is paramount. Firearms designed specifically for .38 Special P are built with stronger materials and thicker chambers to safely handle the increased pressures. Popular revolvers and some semi-automatic pistols are engineered for +P use. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications of your firearm before using .38 Special P. Firing +P ammunition in older .38 Special revolvers or firearms not specifically rated for it can lead to catastrophic failures. Do not assume a firearm can handle .38 Special P just because it can chamber and fire .38 Special ammunition.
Reloading Safety: The Cornerstone of Responsible Practice
The Fundamentals of Safety
Reloading is a rewarding hobby, but it demands unwavering adherence to safety principles. It’s not a casual activity; it’s a process that requires meticulous attention to detail and a profound respect for the potential dangers involved. Failure to adhere to safety protocols can result in serious injury or even death.
Essential Equipment
Essential equipment forms the foundation of a safe and accurate reloading setup. A reloading press, a set of .38 Special dies (including resizing, seating, and crimping dies), a calibrated powder scale (digital is highly recommended for accuracy), a powder dispenser, a case trimmer, a primer seater, and a set of calipers are the basic essentials. Beyond the basic equipment, other tools can contribute to accuracy and safety, such as a case tumbler for cleaning brass and a bullet puller.
Potential Hazards
Several common reloading hazards can lead to dangerous situations. Double charging a case with powder is a major risk. This happens when too much powder is added to a case. Never let yourself be distracted while weighing or dispensing powder. It’s also imperative to properly seat primers. Insufficiently seated primers may fail to ignite the powder, while over-seated primers can create a pressure imbalance. Always verify that all components are suitable for .38 Special P loads. Never use components that are not recommended in reloading manuals.
Bullet and Primer Selection
Bullet Types and Choices
A variety of bullet types are commonly used in .38 Special P reloading. These include jacketed hollow points (JHPs), known for their controlled expansion and effective terminal performance, which is often preferred for self-defense. Lead semi-wadcutters (SWCs) offer a reliable and economical option, often favoured for target shooting. Consider factors such as the intended use of the ammunition when selecting a bullet. Bullet weight is another critical factor.
The Significance of Bullet Weight
Bullet weight is another critical factor. Heavier bullets will generally produce more recoil and may exhibit a different point of impact at a given range compared to lighter bullets. Lighter bullets may offer flatter trajectories and potentially higher velocities. The powder charge must be carefully chosen to work in conjunction with the bullet weight. Choosing the correct bullet weight can also greatly improve accuracy with a given load.
Primer Types and Recommendations
Recommended primer types for .38 Special P are typically small pistol primers. Choose primers from reputable manufacturers like Federal, CCI, or Winchester. The selection of primers will be dependent on the powder you are using and how it is rated. Ensure that the primer you choose is compatible with the powder you are using, and that the primer is recommended in your reloading manuals.
Primer Seating Depth
Primer seating depth plays a key role in the reliability and safety of your reloads. Primers must be seated firmly in the primer pocket. This ensures reliable ignition. A primer that isn’t seated correctly may fail to ignite or may create a pressure issue.
Powder Selection and Load Data Considerations
Choosing the Right Powder
Selecting the right powder is critical for achieving the desired performance and safety when reloading the .38 Special P. There are several powders suitable for this cartridge, each with unique characteristics that influence velocity, pressure, and recoil.
Powder Recommendations
Common powder choices for .38 Special P include powders from Hodgdon, Alliant, and Accurate. Some popular examples include Hodgdon HS-6 and Alliant Power Pistol. These powders generally offer good performance characteristics and are well-suited for the .38 Special P. Powders like these work well with the desired velocity ranges. Read and follow the reloading manuals closely.
Sample Load Data
The load data chart, although dangerous to rely on without proper training and research, is a general guide. This data is for information only and is not a complete or exhaustive source. Always consult multiple reliable reloading manuals, and begin with the minimum powder charge recommended by those manuals. Work up your load slowly, carefully watching for signs of excessive pressure.
Bullet Weight | Bullet Type | Powder Brand & Type | Starting Powder Charge (grains) | Maximum Powder Charge (grains) | Approximate Velocity (fps) | Primer Type
—|—|—|—|—|—|—|
125gr | JHP | Hodgdon HS-6 | Consult Manual | Consult Manual | Consult Manual | Small Pistol
158gr | LSWC | Alliant Power Pistol | Consult Manual | Consult Manual | Consult Manual | Small Pistol
***Disclaimer: Always consult multiple reputable reloading manuals before loading, and start with the minimum powder charge, working your way up carefully. This data is for informational purposes and should not be considered a definitive loading guide. Always reduce the maximum powder charge by at least ten percent and work up slowly to achieve a safe load.***
Working Up a Load
The process of working up a load is a careful and systematic process. Begin with the minimum recommended powder charge. Load a small batch of cartridges and test them at the range, carefully observing for any signs of excessive pressure, such as flattened primers, difficult extraction, or swollen case heads. Chronograph your loads to measure velocity. Increase the powder charge gradually, following the guidelines in your reloading manual. Never change multiple variables at once.
Case Preparation
Case Inspection
Begin by inspecting each case. Examine the cases for cracks, splits, or other damage. Cases showing any signs of defect should be discarded.
Sizing and Trimming
Full-length sizing is typically recommended for .38 Special cases. This process sizes the entire case, ensuring that it will properly chamber and seal in your firearm. Case trimming involves cutting the cases to the correct length. This ensures consistent bullet seating depth and helps with accuracy.
Other Preparations
Deburring the case mouth removes any sharp edges that might interfere with bullet seating. Case cleaning removes residue and contaminants from both the interior and exterior of the cases. This helps to promote clean combustion and consistent performance. Cleaning your cases will also contribute to the life of your reloading dies.
Assembling the Cartridge
Priming the Cases
Correct priming is crucial for the safety of your reloads. Always seat primers fully and firmly in the primer pocket. Never attempt to force a primer into a case.
Charging the Cases
Carefully dispense the correct powder charge into each case. Use a calibrated powder scale. Double check your powder charges for each cartridge. Do not be distracted while charging your cases.
Seating and Crimping
Proper bullet seating and crimping are also vital. Seat the bullet to the recommended depth. A consistent crimp helps ensure reliable ignition and proper bullet release.
Testing and Evaluation
Range Testing
Range testing your reloads is essential for assessing their performance.
Velocity Assessment
Use a chronograph to measure the velocity of your reloads. This allows you to compare the actual velocity to the data provided in your reloading manuals.
Accuracy Considerations
The consistency of your reloads is measured by accuracy. The more consistent your loads, the more accurate you can shoot at the range.
Pressure Signs Review
Pressure signs tell you a lot about your reloads. Look for signs of excessive pressure. If you see pressure signs, immediately stop loading and evaluate your load.
Conclusion
Mastering the art of reloading the .38 Special P is an engaging and responsible pursuit. By focusing on the principles of safety and paying attention to detail, you can craft ammunition that is not only effective but also a testament to your dedication to this craft.
Always remember that safe reloading starts and ends with a commitment to learning and responsible practices. Research, verify, and prioritize safety in all your reloading endeavors. Remember that reloading ammunition can be dangerous. The author is not responsible for any damage or injuries that may result from using this information.
