ammunition question -- POA vs. POI

[DouglasW]

I recently picked up a couple of new-to-me fixed-sight .38/.357 revolvers, and am trying to find the best self-defense ammunition for them.

I understand that fixed-sight revolvers tend to "like" (or are more accurate with) certain ammunition, and that some experimenting is required to find the correct load. I'm ready to experiment, but I have a question:

Will similar weight ammunition from a single manufacturer have the same point-of-impact?

For example: Should all Remington .38 caliber 158gr. ammunition have the same point of impact as Remington's R38S12 LSWCHP cartridge (the FBI load)...or will the bullet type and +P/standard pressure affect the point-of-aim vs. point-of-impact? I'd like to carry the FBI Load, but be able to practice with cheaper (standard pressure or +P) rounds.

In addition to the "FBI Load", Remington's also lists these other 158gr rounds:

* R38S14 -- which is a +P LSWC, but not HP.
* R38S5 -- 158 LEAD RN, but not +P
* R38S6 -- 158 LEAD SWC, but not +P

Will their Point-of-Aim vs. Point-of-Impact all be the same?

I'd also welcome any advice on the preferred way to identify the most accurate ammunition for these revolvers. Just observe benchrest groups from 15 yards, or something more...scientific? Thanks!

 

[earplug]

For me

My fixed sight S&W 38/.357's shoot to POA with 158 grain bullets.
With Remington or Winchester I can't tell any difference at 7-10 yards, shooting DA.
You may want to be sure you have picked a set of stocks/grips that work for you before you do lots of experiments. How you hold them effects where they shoot too.

 

[Master Blaster]

The thing that matters most from my experience with fixed sight revolvers, in the POA POI thing is how far you are from the target.

10 yards or less no difference other than that induced by shooter error.
25-50 yards the load will make a noticable difference.

Fixed sight .38/ .357 revolvers seem to shoot to POA with 158 grain bullets, especially if its an old revolver.

JMHO YMMV

 

[ArchAngelCD]

I agree, my S&W Model 619 will shoot POA=POI with 158 gr ammo from 15 yards and under and will shoot low with 125 gr ammo. (That is, if I do my job) The same holds true for my M638 J frame except for the 15 yards part. I haven't shot it further than 15 yards yet, but will be working on that soon.