.38 S&W - .38 Special

[jondar]

I've just learned that an older .38 S&W revolver I purchased recently at a gun show is,(according to the SN) safe only with black powder loading. Has anyone figured a way of reloading .38 S&W with .38 Special dies? I have two sets of dies, .38 Special Pacific and .38 Special - .357 Magnum RCBS. New dies for the .38 S&W will cost me a minimum of $25 which I really can't afford at this time. Any help appreciated.

 

[Old Fuff]

No you can't, because while the .38 S&W is shorter then either the .38 Special or .357 Magnum it is larger in diameter. (.385" vs. .379"). Keep an eye out at gun shows and dealers and you may find a used set of dies for less money.

The .38 S&W is also supposed to use .360" dia. bullets, but you can get by with those sized to .358" for the .38 Special.

Exactly what model is this "older Smith & Wesson?"

 

[jondar]

.38 S&W

Yeah, that's what I was afraid of. Also the expanding plug on the .38 Spec die isn't able to go deep enough. Good Idea on the used dies, maybe next gun show. It isn't a Smith. It is an IJ hammerless in new condition. I bought it just to carry in the car; if I lost it I hadn't lost much. If I can't find dies it will make a nice wall hanger.

 

[Old Fuff]

Sorry I couldn't be of much help. but anyway welcome to The High Road, and do come back and visit.