Model 60 Stainless +p rated?

I think so. I always thought they dropped power levels of standard .38Spl and introduced +p to gain shelf space and make more money off the unknowing (British for ignorant).

 

I'd like to find some of that "125gr JHP / 1350 fps." That's about a 100 fps less than Federal 125 gr .357 mag. Joe

 

I have an early 80's model 60. Shoot 125 gold dot +P exclusively. No problems.

 

This is correct. Many people on internet forums incorrectly think the .38 Special ammo of yesteryear was superior to today's loads. I test old factory ammo as a hobby, and can tell you the earlier stuff was not as fast as it was represented to be.

 

We shot +P all the time for requal in both K frame and J frame. The J frames held up fine, my fingers after 100 rounds of +P in a J frame, not so much.

 

The S&W +P 1050 fps becomes 880fps with a SAAMI vented barrel. If SAAMI uses a longer barrel then 2" , velocity will be less.
My M60 38 special does 790 fps average loading 5.3grs Unique with 163 gr home cast lswc..

Hodgdon +P reloading data has velocities in the 965/986 fps range using a 7" barrel. NOTE listed PSI. 18,500 PSI .

Going by velocity alone, Hodgdon +P would seem higher pressure then the old Smith & Wesson 1050fps.

But modern powders can work at safe pressures and produce higher velocity today.

SAAMI 38 Spec 17,000 PSI. 38 Special +P 20,000 PSI.