I would like Some educated opinions of the 38+P as a self defense round.?

Question

I would also like some info on the best bullet choice as well as any links for statistics.

Answer 1

The one load in .38 Special that really seemed to excel above all the others was the old "FBI Load". It was a 158 grn. SWCHP loaded to +P pressures. While modern bullet technology has made some progress with with the .38 Special caliber, the old "FBI Load" is still favored among many armed citizens. That said, I would stay away from any FMJ or non-hollowpoint SWC for personal defense.

Check the links I posted below. You'll find some good info there.

Answer 2

The + P .38 Special rounds are a slight improvement over the standard .38 special rounds that have been around for years..They have increased muzzle velocity, the idea being that a .38 special round (standard) just seemed to lack in law enforcement applications so the +P rounds were invented/produced, in hopes to help equalize the cop on the street from the better armed "Bad Boys"...The first rounds produced were solid lead round nose and despite the . added power, they lacked the ability to stop a felon (bullet mass). The same +P round in a jacketed hollow point however, they not only increased the .38 special stopping ability, but did more to even the odds in a law enforcement armed confrontation on. In the hollow point version bullets, these makes for excellent self-defense or home defense rounds.There are literally hundreds of websites that discuss bullet velocity , and every major ammunition manufacturer maintains a website with bullet statistic's and performance comparisons. There are also countless books on ballistics and reloading available on the inter-net that cover all calibers of weapons.

Answer 3

if your gun can handle the .38 +P its good for self defense against humans...it is ballisticly above the 9mm but has a awsome velocity. But if you have a choice just get a .357 mag...but if you already have the gun then the +p is a nice upgrade. The best bullet is the Gold dot in a 135 grain.

Answer 4

+P is good if your pistol can handle the higher pressure if not u could lose some major body parts!!!! also there is the added recoil if u r recoil sensitive +P may not be a good choice if the recoil causes u to not be able to control ur shots it wont do u any good because any more than 1 shot u will most likely miss ur target the key to self defense is control not bullet speed so find a good HP round u are comfortable shooting and can hit with and stick with what works for u ..good luck

Answer 5

Not a bad load. If I had my druthers I would still go for a 12 gauge double barrel 18" model, but call me old fashioned. I practice with one every so often and it is quite impressive the way it blows a hole that you can put a basketball through.

Answer 6

It sucks...