S&W J Frame ammo.?

Question

What is the best self defense only (not target or otherwise) ammunition for a .38 S&W J Frame. I'm thinking about CCI Blazer JHP?

Answer 1

You didn't say which Model J frame you have. Is it the steel version or the air-weight frame? Actually this is a minor concern. The Smith & Wesson J frame .38 special was designed as a "close combat" weapon, therefore it was never designed to fire +P .38 special loads. There are a variety of standard JHP loads available that will work just fine without stressing the smaller frame, and at the same time allow you to hit your target., A good factory loaded JHP will do the job. To load anything "hot" or plus P is just a waste of time. You will be less accurate, not to mention the shock to your hand due to recoil. As a former LEO we had a few guys on the squad that lacked some common sense and carried these as back up guns in ankle holsters in case their duty handguns were taken from them. Packed and loaded with "hot" +P rounds they were quick to realize the recoil, not to mention the 6' of flame produced when fired in low light situations/confrontations. The 3" HB barreled versions are more desireable than the 2". The steel frame more popular than the airweight. It's just down to a personal choice and what you are able to personally shoot the best that works for you. If this Blazer JHP you mention is not +P you are good to go! Good Luck! Write if I can answer any more questions.

Answer 2

For the J frame you want a quality non-plus-P defensive load. Check the Federal catalogue. They might still carry what they called the Chief's Special 125 grain hollow point .38 Special. If not ask for their 110 grain personal defense round in .38 Special.

Best.

H

Answer 3

If you can find a box or two of Federal Nyclad 125 gr. SWC-HP, aka "The Chief's Special Load" that will be best.

Next best would be any 158 gr. SWC load, but the Federal Treasury Load would be best, though in a J-frame snubby, it won't be fun to shoot as it is a +P+ load,

Doc

Answer 4

Speer Gold Dot is about the best conventional hollow point available, If you don't mind unconventional www.extremeshockusa.com is about the best I seen, followed by www.magsafeonline.com
both of these are great for in the home because they will brake up quickly and not be as much of a hazard to people on the other side of the wall.

Answer 5

If any of the police in your area still use a .38, ask them what
they load.

Answer 6

I prefer a smaller caliber. I don't need crackhead splattered all over my walls.

Answer 7

I urge you to try a few of the shotshells available; that way there is no danger to your neighbor's children or plasma TV. At close range they are nasty.