Interesting results

[Nomad]

I recently started carrying a 2” 38 Special non +P. When carrying a 357 in the past, I have always carried 38 Spl +P and been comfortable. To give me a level of comfort I tested using the ol water jug test. In the past I have used this to test 40 S&W 155 gr. Hydra Shocks. So I lined up 6 one gallon jugs to conduct the test. I used the 6th one as insurance because when I did the 40 S&W test the bullet went through 4 and creased the back of the 5th but didn’t exit the 5th bottle. Today I was using a 2” barrel, 38 Spl. Mag Tech 158 gr SJHP non +P. The bullet went through all 6 jugs and as far as I know is still going! The hole in the back of the 6th jug was about the same size as the hole in the back of the second jug (first jug was ripped apart) so with the deep penetration and the size of the hole I’m guessing the velocity was too low and the HP didn’t expand much. I know this isn’t a very scientific test and I bought the Mag Tech for the time being until I could decide what I really want to carry in the gun. I guess I’m surprised at the penetration.

 

[oldfool]

you said it
hollowpoints expand on speed plus fluid
(that's why they call some of 'em HYDRA shocks, but thin on speed means thin on expansion, no matter the hydra)
a little too slow they don't expand near so well, but they can penetrate real well
plenty of hydra, not so much speed, especially not out of 2"

a 2” barrel, 38 Spl. Mag Tech 158 gr SJHP non +P.
not same as 38+p/357 speeds out of 6"

a little bitty 17HMR HP at >mach 2 will fully expand in merely the length of a 15oz plastic bottle, but not penetrate on thru
speed (and expansion), yes, power & penetration not
(well, not unless a squirrel is on the receiving end)

nothing wrong with non-JHP in 38sp only snubbies
surf 38 snubbies here, plenty of folks use semi-wadcutters in 'em

 

[Nomad]

I'm not too suprised at the lack of expansion although since I didn't recover the bullet I don't know for sure. What I am surprised at is I got 33 plus inches of penetration from a 38 Spl standard load.