dumb question

[acmax95]

I know this may sound like a dumb question but I want to be positive about my information. I know I can shoot .38 Specials out of my .357 but can I also shoot .38 Specials +P? I think I can but want to be sure. This is an older gun (made in 1974-75) but in great condition.

 

[MrBorland]

Yes, you can.

 

[m38shooter]

Slightly more obscure addition to this question. Does anyone know if it's safe to fire a .38 S&W cartridge from a .357 chamber?

 

[BADUNAME37]

If the case dimensions are the same (including a rim on the base of the case), then I would think yes, you can.

I am not familiar with 38 S&W cartridges.

 

[MrBorland]

Does anyone know if it's safe to fire a .38 S&W cartridge from a .357 chamber

AFAIK, the .38S&W is not compatible with a .38/.357 gun. The bullet and case have a slightly bigger diameter.

 

[Matt Almeda]

Does anyone know if it's safe to fire a .38 S&W cartridge from a .357 chamber?

Hi,
You really should not put a 38 S&W through a gun chambered for .38 Special or .357 magnum

The 38 S&W is a true .38 caliber from the older designation of the bullet while the modern .38 Specials and 357 Magnums are actually .357 caliber from the newer designation on the bore.

The 38 S&W can interchange with:
38 Colt New Police & 380 Webley

I have heard that it also can interchange with 38-200 but I'm not totally sure on that.

Have a great day!

 

[rcmodel]

The .38 S&W case is about .006" larger in diameter then the .38/.357 case, and the bullet is .360" rather then .357".

So it is doubtful it would chamber in a modern .357.
But if it did, it would be safe to shoot it. They are only loaded to about 1/3 the pressure of the .357 Magnum, and the soft lead bullet would present no problems in a tighter bore.

rcmodel