Brand: Smith & Wesson · SKU: 38 · MPN: Not Available · Category: Components
The .38 Special, also commonly known as .38 S&W Special, .38 Smith & Wesson Special, .38 Spl, .38 Spc (pronounced "thirty-eight special"), or 9×29mmR, is a rimmed, centerfire cartridge designed by Smith & Wesson. It was designed and produced in 1898 as a higher-velocity round with better penetration than the .38 Long Colt. The .38 Special was the standard service cartridge for most United States police departments from the 1920s to the 1990s. It was also a common sidearm cartridge used by United States military personnel in World War I, World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Known for its accuracy and manageable recoil, the .38 Special has a case capacity of 23.4 gr H2O (1.52 cm3) and uses a small pistol primer. Standard SAAMI pressure is 17,500 psi, with a maximum pressure of 22,000 psi (CIP). Ballistic performance examples include a 130-grain FMJ bullet achieving 800 ft/s and 185 ft⋅lbf, and a 158-grain LRN bullet achieving 755 ft/s and 200 ft⋅lbf.
| Type | Revolver Cartridge |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .38 Special |
| Designed | 1898 |
| Designer | Smith & Wesson |
| Case Length | 1.155 in (29.3 mm) |
| Primer Type | Small pistol |
| Overall Length | 1.550 in (39.4 mm) |
| Bullet Diameter | 0.357 in (9.1 mm) |
| Maximum Pressure (CIP) | 150 MPa (22,000 psi) |
| Maximum Pressure (SAAMI) | 17,500 psi |
| Warranty | Not Available |
| Weight | Not Available |
| Dimensions | Not Available |
The .38 Special is a rimmed, centerfire cartridge developed by Smith & Wesson in 1898. It was designed to offer improved performance over the .38 Long Colt, becoming a popular choice for law enforcement and military use. Known for its manageable recoil and accuracy, it remains a common cartridge for revolvers.
Yes, this 38 Special (38) is 100% genuine Smith & Wesson hardware. All our products are verified by certified technicians and come with clean serial numbers ready for service contract registration.
This 38 Special includes our standard 3-Year Warranty covering all manufacturing defects. We also offer advanced replacement options for minimal downtime.
We offer free ground shipping which typically takes 3-5 business days. Expedited shipping options are available at checkout for faster delivery.
Yes, we have a 30-day return policy on all products. Restocking fees may apply for opened items. Please see our return policy for complete details.
Please check the specifications tab for detailed compatibility information. Our technical team is available to assist with compatibility questions for the 38.