.357 Revolver Accuracy Using .38Spl

[amprecon]

I've had .357's before and they are very loud guns, so I've decided that if I were to get another revolver I'd probably only shoot .38's through it. I've been told by everyone to get the .357 caliber gun and just shoot .38's through it, that way I'd have the option. But I've always been skeptical of the accuracy of using .38's in a .357 gun. The guns I'm interested in are the S&W Model 10 and 65 with 4" barrels.

 

[Gillster]

I can't speak to those models but I get great accuracy shooting .38 spcl cast handloads out of 686's and a 627. Very pleasant to shoot and a lot cheaper as well.

Chris

 

[PI Rob]

I haven't noticed any difference in accuracy when shooting .38's out of my M66 .357. I wouldn't over think it and just get what feels good to you.

 

[magsnubby]

I have:
Ruger Security Six (2)
Ruger GP100
Ruger SP101
S&W 28
Tarus 605
Taurus 606
EAA Bounty Hunter

I can't tell any difference in accuracy between .38's and .357's in any of my guns.

 

[Standing Wolf]

.38 specials are just as accurate in .357 magnum revolvers as .38 specials. The only problem is that cleaning the chambers is more bothersome.

 

[tc300mag1]

I have 2 a police service 6 And a security 6. My service 6 shoots low with 38's unless there really reved up im figuring becuse its the fixed sights and it shoots best with 125's

now the security 6 shoots pretty much dead on with either

 

[JohnKSa]

Depends on the gun, depends on the ammo. It's done a lot--kind of makes me think the results are usually acceptable.

.38special is still plenty loud--more than enough to cause permanent hearing damage from one shot without protection.

 

[stans]

I think most 357's will shoot 38 Specials just fine as far as accuracy is concerned, but there are some that will be more accurate with magnums; it's luck of the draw.

 

[BluesBear]

Based on testing I did back when I was commercially producing ammunition for self defense and law enforcement use, any load that is accurate in a 4" S&W Model 10 heavy barrel, will be just as accurate in a 4" S&W Model 13.

In over 40 loads tested the difference between the two revolvers was inconsiquential. We're talking perhaps ½" for a 6 shot group at 25 yards from a Ransom Rest. Testing was done with brand new 1982 vintage revolvers.

 

[Erich]

Wow, this question gets asked a lot, on almost every forum I visit.