+p in snubbies

[n47587]

I have had this discussion with some friends of mine and wondered what you all thought on the matter. I have never been a big believer in +p ammo in my snubbie .38. I do not think that the extra "poop" behind the bullet would be of any benifit for such a short barrel (2"). Range test in my Smith has showed a considerable drop in accuracy if I feed her +p over a smaller load. What cha all think?

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[PhysicsGuy]

Get a chronograph and test it out is the best way to settle those arguments.

 

[the4thshake]

If it isn't burning the extra powder in the barrel, it isn't gaining any velocity.

 

[stmcelroy]

Speer Gold Dot Short Barrel 135gr +P is definitely worth it.

 

[NoOne]

The short barrel doesn't have a fair chance to burn the extra powder. My guess is that you will get a wee bit more velocity, but a whole bunch more muzzle flash. That being the case, I wonder which round would be better in a gunfight...one with a little more power (very little more) and that will possibly damage your night vision, or the round with 98% of the power that won't bother your night vision?

Of course, more velocity means more power, but some times I wonder if it is worth the expense. As you said, you loose accuracy too...

Then there is the whole argument over practicing with what you will carry, and with a lightweight snubby (you didn't say your's was though) you would be considerably reducing the useable lifespan of the neat little revolver.

I would probably go for a heavier bullet rather than more velocity and muzzle flash.