Reloading your own ammunition can be a rewarding and cost-effective hobby, offering shooters the ability to tailor their rounds to specific needs. This guide focuses on providing comprehensive reloading data for the popular .38 Super Auto and .38 Special +P cartridges. Always prioritize safety and consult multiple sources before undertaking any reloading project. This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for proper training and the use of a comprehensive reloading manual.
Understanding .38 Super Auto and .38 Special +P
Before delving into reloading data, let's differentiate these two cartridges:
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.38 Super Auto: This high-pressure cartridge, designed for semi-automatic pistols, delivers significantly more power than its .38 Special counterpart. Its higher pressure demands meticulous attention to detail during reloading.
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.38 Special +P: This is a higher-pressure loading of the standard .38 Special cartridge. While not as powerful as the .38 Super Auto, it still requires careful reloading practices due to the increased pressures involved.
Key Considerations for Reloading .38 Super Auto and .38 Special +P
Safe reloading requires meticulous attention to several critical factors:
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Powder Selection: Using the incorrect powder can lead to catastrophic results. Consult your reloading manual for specific powder recommendations and their corresponding load data. Never substitute powders without verified data.
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Primer Type: The correct primer type is essential for reliable ignition. Small pistol primers are typically used for both cartridges, but always refer to your chosen load data.
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Bullet Weight and Type: Bullet weight directly impacts pressure. Using heavier bullets generally requires a reduced powder charge. Bullet type (jacketed hollow point, full metal jacket, etc.) also plays a role, and accurate data for your specific bullet type is crucial.
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Case Preparation: Properly prepared cases are critical for consistent performance and safety. This includes resizing, trimming, cleaning, and inspecting for any defects.
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Equipment: Having the correct reloading equipment is paramount. A properly functioning press, accurate scale, and case gauge are essential for safe and accurate reloading.
Sample Reloading Data (Disclaimer: This is for illustrative purposes only. Always consult your reloading manual for accurate and safe load data.):
Please Note: The following data is a simplified example and is NOT to be used for actual reloading. Use only data found in reputable reloading manuals specific to your equipment, powder, primers, and bullets. Improper use can lead to serious injury or death.
| Cartridge | Bullet Weight (gr) | Powder (Type) | Powder Charge (gr) | Primer | Overall Length (in) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| .38 Super Auto | 125 | [Powder Name] | [Charge Weight] | Small Pistol | [Overall Length] |
| .38 Super Auto | 130 | [Powder Name] | [Charge Weight] | Small Pistol | [Overall Length] |
| .38 Special +P | 125 | [Powder Name] | [Charge Weight] | Small Pistol | [Overall Length] |
| .38 Special +P | 158 | [Powder Name] | [Charge Weight] | Small Pistol | [Overall Length] |
Replace the bracketed information with data from your reloading manual.
Safety Precautions
- Always wear safety glasses and hearing protection.
- Work in a well-ventilated area.
- Never exceed the maximum recommended load data.
- Double-check your work at every step of the reloading process.
- Regularly inspect and maintain your reloading equipment.
- Take a reloading class from a certified instructor.
Reloading .38 Super Auto and .38 Special +P cartridges demands diligence and precision. By following established safety protocols and consulting reputable reloading manuals, you can safely and effectively produce accurate and reliable ammunition. Remember, safety should always be your top priority. This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for proper training and the use of a comprehensive reloading manual.
