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.38spl 2" barrel self defense hand loads
We all know not to carry hand loads for self defense right?
Not illegal of course, just bad in the eyes of a prosecutor.
We all know not to carry hand loads for self defense right?
Not illegal of course, just bad in the eyes of a prosecutor.
So anyone got any pet hand loads for a .38spl +P revolver with a 2" barrel?
Getting the pistol next week and I been wondering about loads.
I load Pistol with Bullseye, Unique, and Clays
Not looking for factory ammo suggestions unless I can duplicate it hand loading.
The problem with loading light for "accuracy" is that you sacrifice penetration and performance. Let's face it, a 2" barrel will not be winning any "Bullseye Contests" as a rule.
If the weapon is to be carried as a Self Defense weapon some of that accuracy is going to have to be sacrificed. Next time consider testing at a closer distance like 20'. Use the fastest burning powder recommended for the bullet you choose. Look more for the size of the group rather than the position of the group. Group placement is more a function of how the shooter is dealing with the recoil rather than the ammo. Group size is also effected by the shooter but ammo performance is a big part as well. If the "club" where you shoot has a "Machine Rest" available this is a great way to test the ammo without any shooter's input. Also a good idea to check speed with a chronograph. "Feel" goes only so far. The "data" obtained by putting 20-30 rounds over a chronograph will tell the real story.
Here is some data on .38 spl ammo that was tested For/by Firearms Tactical Institute
.38 Special Ammunition Performance Data
Look at the ammo tested in the 2" bbl and how it penetrates almost half the distance as the other rounds.
A 2" bbl'd .38 is used best as Jack Ruby used his to "dispatch" Lee Harvey Oswald. Up close and personal. It's not a gun that one really concerns themselves with group size and Point of Impact.