.38 special

Classic detective's gun

A .38 special is a revolver cartridge, one of the most popular handgun rounds in the world since its introduction in 1898.

The designation refers to the approximate bullet diameter (.357 inches) and distinguishes it from other .38 caliber ammunition.

For decades it was the standard-issue round for American police departments: He carried a snub-nosed .38 special.

The cartridge is known for moderate recoil and reliable stopping power.

Related

snub nose revolver · ammunition · speed loader · holster · ankle holster · backup gun · detective · Smith & Wesson · caliber · trigger · double action · barrel · bullet · six-shooter · police · noir · chamber · colt

Opposites
firearm power

.38 special.44 magnum

High-power pistol cartridge

magnum · hand cannon

Family

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Familiarity
Top 500,000
Profile
Mostly American · Timeless · Concrete · Negative · Rated PG