Gel test: 38 spl 135 gr +P (redux)

I did a previous test with Speer .38 spl +P 135 gr Gold Dot from my S&W 638 and it had less than stellar results. This load is supposed to be one of the few recommended loads for a short barreled .38 revolver and it did not perform as expected. I thought it might have something to do with the colder temperatures the day we did the testing so I redid the test. I left the revolver and ammo in the refrigerator overnight and kept it in the cooler on the way out, then fired a couple shots with it cold and one with it warm. I also fired a shot from a 4" GP-100. All shots were through four layers of denim and impact velocities are noted.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M4ukjPssIYQ

Yeah, I wish I had the resources to test this properly but I just don't. To set up a proper test and control, you'd have to ensure that the gun and ammunition were actually at the target temperature for each shot and shoot a statistically relevant sample size with time to cool between each shot. I think that what I did is nowhere near controlled enough to be conclusive but I think it indicates this load may be somewhat sensitive to temperature. I really hope a professional takes the time to test this load at low temperature so we can know for sure whether it can be trusted for carry in the winter. What good is a round that can only penetrate heavy clothing if it has to be hot to do it?

I don't think I'll be testing this anymore unless we have another cold snap. Next up will be Buffalo Bore 158 gr LSWCHP.

Hapworth,

Sorry. I don't know why I typed that. I meant expand through heavy clothing. Obviously it penetrates adequately. I agree that if given a choice between expansion and penetration, I'll take penetration every time. Speer's tests indicate that this load is capable of adequate penetration with expansion.

The BB load I have is +P.

JellyJar,

I actually fired a couple more rounds that aren't shown in the video. I could clearly see the velocity rising with each shot as the cylinder warmed up.

ArchAngel, please note the chrono data. Velocity was 880fps after the revolver and ammo had warmed up to ambient temperature. That is consistent with what Speer claims and what others have verified in normal test conditions.

Roaddog, you buyin'?

LOL, no it's the temperature of the powder that produced lower velocities, resulting in inadequate expansion. The gelatin is *supposed* to be cold.