KBintheSLC
Member
I know there are a million 38 spl ammo threads here, but I don't find much about folks using JSP in 38... so I thought I would get your thoughts on...
Recently, I found some S&B 158g JSP in standard pressure 38 spl. They shoot nicely out of my SW 637, and seem to pack a good punch for a non-+P loading. I assume it is due to the fact that the European stuff is generally a bit hotter. However, they do not deliver harsh recoil, and are very manageable to shoot. I am considering using these as my carry load.
But I have to wonder whether a soft point will deform much at such low velocities. I love soft points in a 357 mag, but I wonder about it in a snubbie 38. The S&B site claims about 889 fps for this loading, but does not specify the barrel length. I assume it can't be more than 800 fps out of a sub-2" barrel.
I like the idea of a heavy soft point more than light hallow point in a snubbie 38 since JHP expansion can be patchy. The heavy 158g JSP ought to penetrate pretty well, but will it deform enough to stay inside an average sized body?
What are your thoughts on using JSP's at such velocities? Would I be better off just buying some 158g wad cutters?
Recently, I found some S&B 158g JSP in standard pressure 38 spl. They shoot nicely out of my SW 637, and seem to pack a good punch for a non-+P loading. I assume it is due to the fact that the European stuff is generally a bit hotter. However, they do not deliver harsh recoil, and are very manageable to shoot. I am considering using these as my carry load.
But I have to wonder whether a soft point will deform much at such low velocities. I love soft points in a 357 mag, but I wonder about it in a snubbie 38. The S&B site claims about 889 fps for this loading, but does not specify the barrel length. I assume it can't be more than 800 fps out of a sub-2" barrel.
I like the idea of a heavy soft point more than light hallow point in a snubbie 38 since JHP expansion can be patchy. The heavy 158g JSP ought to penetrate pretty well, but will it deform enough to stay inside an average sized body?
What are your thoughts on using JSP's at such velocities? Would I be better off just buying some 158g wad cutters?