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38 Special Ammo For Sale

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The 38 Special cartridge has earned a world-renowned reputation, largely due to its remarkable versatility and time-tested performance. Its most sought-after advantage is that it can be chambered in small, easily concealed, and highly accurate revolvers. For those looking to train consistently, check out our bulk 38 Special ammo page. Learn More
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  1. Underwood 38 Special +P Ammo - 20 Rounds of 125 Grain XTP Ammunition

    Image of Underwood 38 Special +P Ammo - 20 Rounds of 125 Grain XTP Ammunition
    $21.99
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    28 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type XTP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Nickel-Plated Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1250 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 434 ft lbs
    • 20 Rounds
    • $1.1 per round
    • Made by Underwood

  2. Underwood 38 Special Ammo - 20 Rounds of 158 Grain LSWHPGC Ammunition

    Image of Underwood 38 Special Ammo - 20 Rounds of 158 Grain LSWHPGC Ammunition
    $29.99
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    18 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type LSWCHP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Nickel-Plated Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 980 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 337 ft lbs
    • 20 Rounds
    • $1.5 per round
    • Made by Underwood

Overview of 38 Special Ammo

The 38 Special has been a cornerstone of American self-defense and revolver shooting for over 120 years, introduced in 1902 and still one of the most widely chambered handgun cartridges in production today. A rimmed, centerfire cartridge, the 38 Special is most often chambered in revolvers, but carbines and a handful of semi-automatic pistols have also been built for the round.

The 38 Special goes by several other names, including the 38 Smith and Wesson Special, the 38 Colt Special, 9x29.5mmR, and 9.1x29mmR. In its standard loading, the 38 Special weighs 158 grain (gr), has a total cartridge length of 1.455 inches, and travels at roughly 755 feet per second (fps). +P loadings push velocity and energy higher for self-defense use, while wadcutter and target loads run lighter and softer for match work and practice.

Many revolver shooters eventually move from 38 Special to 357 Magnum for added power and versatility. The 357 Magnum was developed directly from the 38 Special case, and any 357 Magnum revolver will safely chamber and fire 38 Special ammo, which makes the 38 Special a popular practice load for 357 owners.

What are the most popular 38 Special brands you sell?

For extended range sessions and training, browse our 250 rounds of 38 Special ammo for bulk purchasing options, or step up to the 1000-round case for the best price per round.

How does the 38 Special Compare to Other Calibers?

Comparison Recoil Pros Cons
38 Special vs. 357 Magnum Higher Significantly more power and velocity, better for hunting Much higher recoil, more expensive ammunition
38 Special vs. 9mm Similar Higher capacity in semi-auto pistols, faster reloads Requires semi-auto maintenance, potential feed issues
38 Special vs. 380 ACP Lower Better energy and penetration, proven stopping power Lower capacity (revolver), more recoil than 380
38 Special vs. 38 S&W Lower More powerful and versatile, better ballistics Higher recoil than 38 S&W, not compatible with older firearms

Best 38 Special Ammo for Specific Use Cases

Use Case Winners
Best 38 Special for Self-Defense Best Overall: Hornady Critical Defense 38 Special +P 110gr JHP
Runner-Up: Speer 38 Special +P 125gr JHP
Best 38 Special for Snubbies Best Overall: Hornady Critical Defense 38 Special +P 110gr JHP
Runner-Up: Blazer 38 Special 125 Grain FMJ
Best 38 Special for Target Practice Best Overall: Ammo Inc 125gr TMJ
Runner-Up: Fiocchi 38 Special 130gr FMJ
Molly Carter
Written by
Molly Carter