Can You shoot +P's in a Colt Det.Spl.?

Just wondered, if its recommended to shoot .38+p's in a Colt Detective

Special? Anyone had any experience or knows what Colt recommends?

Is your's a newer one that has the shrouded ejector rod? If it is then I would say a limited number is okay. I believe the latest Colt Cobra, which is a lightweight version of the Detective Special, can handle around 1000 +P's.

The post-1972 shrouded barrel Colt Dick Specials were factory rated for 3000 rounds of +P ammo.

After 3000 rounds they needed to be returned to the factory for inspection, and possible frame replacement.

The aluminum post-72 Cobra was rated for 1500 rounds.

Pre-72 "D" frame Colts were NOT rated for any +P ammo.

Per the factory manual, 3rd generation guns can handle +p, but with accelerated wear. There is no 'round count' in the manual.

You'll find many "+p" loads are a few fps higher than standard, find a good heavy std pressure load your Colt likes and stick with it.

A std pressure 158swchp is hard to beat for penetration and expansion in a snubby.

"There is no 'round count' in the manual."

There was in some manuals. In some manuals there was a separate page with the info on the 3000 DS and 1500 Cobra +P usage, along with the provision that the guns would need a visit to the factory for inspection and possible frame replacement.

Early post-72 manuals didn't have this info, and late production manuals didn't have it.
I never really paid any attention to just when that page appeared and then disappeared.

Personally, I don't fire +Ps in my Detective Special: Colt doesn't still make the gun, and finding a good replacement at a reasonable price isn't easy.

Why loosen up an adaquate short range self defense weapon?. I have handled hundreds as I was the main aftermarket grip maker for them.

If you want something more powerful let your spouse have it under her pillow and get a bigger caliber for yourself.

Paul Jones
Fitz Pistol grip Co
1924-1979