Can You Shoot .38 S&W in a .38 Special Revolver? The Crucial Differences and Safety Considerations
The short answer is: No, you should not shoot .38 S&W ammunition in a .38 Special revolver. While the names are similar and both cartridges are rimmed, there are crucial differences that can lead to serious injury or damage to your firearm.
This article will delve into the specifics of these cartridges, highlighting the dangers of mixing them up and providing crucial safety guidelines for handling revolvers.
Understanding the Cartridge Differences: .38 S&W vs. .38 Special
Both .38 S&W (Smith & Wesson) and .38 Special are revolver cartridges, meaning they have a rimmed case. However, their dimensions differ significantly:
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Case Length: The .38 S&W cartridge is considerably shorter than the .38 Special cartridge. This is the primary reason why firing a .38 S&W in a .38 Special revolver is dangerous.
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Chambering: A .38 Special revolver's chambers are designed specifically for the longer .38 Special cartridge. Attempting to fire a shorter .38 S&W round could result in the round not seating properly, leading to:
- Misfires: The cartridge may not ignite properly, leaving a live round in the chamber.
- Bullet Setback: The shorter cartridge might move back in the chamber upon impact from the firing pin. This could cause the bullet to lodge in the case neck, potentially creating an obstruction that causes a dangerous pressure buildup upon firing.
- Damage to the firearm: The shorter cartridge could lead to damage to the firing pin or cylinder.
Safety First: Why Cross-Cartridge Shooting is Never Recommended
Mixing ammunition calibers is exceptionally dangerous and should never be attempted. Even seemingly minor differences in cartridge dimensions can have catastrophic consequences. The pressure created during firing is immense, and any discrepancy can result in:
- Revolver Damage: Pressure exceeding the revolver's design limits could cause barrel deformation, cylinder rupture, or even the firearm to explode.
- Serious Injury: Fragments from a damaged revolver, or even the bullet itself, can cause severe injury or death to the shooter or bystanders.
Identifying Your Revolver's Caliber: The Importance of Proper Identification
Always positively identify the caliber of your revolver before handling any ammunition. The caliber is usually marked clearly on the barrel of the revolver. If unsure, consult your firearm's manual or a qualified gunsmith.
Never rely on visual estimation to identify cartridges. The slight differences between cartridges such as the .38 S&W and .38 Special are difficult to discern visually, increasing the risk of accidental misuse.
Conclusion: Practice Safe Gun Handling
Responsible gun ownership necessitates a thorough understanding of firearm safety. Never attempt to fire ammunition of one caliber in a firearm designed for a different caliber. Always check your ammunition carefully and only use cartridges specifically designed for your revolver. If you have any doubts, seek assistance from a qualified firearms expert. Your safety, and the safety of those around you, is paramount.
