S&W K-38 Question

[ucooley]

Hello, Revolver Experts:

Can a S&W K-38 (circa. approx. 1980) handle modern +P loads?

Your attention to this matter is greatly appreciated.

Best Regards,
Ulysses

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[RVTECH]

Can a S&W K-38 (circa. approx. 1980) handle modern +P loads?

'Rule of thumb' has always been S & Ws with model NUMBERS (post 1959) are OK with +P.

 

[DirectDrive]

Hello, Revolver Experts:

Can a S&W K-38 (circa. approx. 1980) handle modern +P loads?

Your attention to this matter is greatly appreciated.

Best Regards,
Ulysses

Why would anyone want to run +P in a fine target revolver ?
Get a .357, don't loosen up your K-38

 

[ucooley]

Obviously, I did not consider that.

I appreciate all of you guys' advice.

Thank You,
Ulysses

 

[ma96782]

Nope. She can too.

The way I heard it, was that, if your S&W K frame has the stamped model number in the frame (stamped in the yoke area).....she's GTG. Now, does that also to apply to their J frames too? Probably.

Shooting loose? OK, I guess it could/might also happen.

Anyway, I've heard the alternative theory or FACT, whatever. That the original .38 special loads were actually more "powerful" vs today's +P .38 specials.



Whatever. I just use +P loads on "special occasions." My regular .38 special (reloads) are "fun enough" for me.

Aloha, Mark

 

[dangerranger60]

I doubt +P ammo will cause excessive wear on a full size all steel handgun, not like an alloy J frame. The only gun I have had that was shot loose was a .357 shooting a steady diet of top end mag loads. And it did not shoot loose it had flame cutting of the upper frame and the forcing cone cracked.
There is a huge pressure difference between 38 spl +P and a top end .357 mag load. DR

 

[Andy54Hawken]

Would it be okay to shoot +P ammo....Sure.
However....
The revolver was made for target / match ammo in mind.
If it was my revolver I would stick with the loadings it was designed / intended for ...
And not to what it could be used for.
Andy