The .38 Special S&W CTG is a popular cartridge that has been in use since the early 20th century. It is a revolver cartridge that was designed by Smith & Wesson and has been used by law enforcement agencies, military forces, and civilians for many years. In this article, we will explore the history, characteristics, and applications of this popular cartridge.
History of the .38 Special S&W CTG
The .38 Special S&W CTG was first introduced by Smith & Wesson in 1898. The cartridge was designed to offer a more powerful alternative to the .38 Long Colt cartridge that was in use by the military at the time. The .38 Long Colt had a reputation for being ineffective, and there was a need for a more powerful cartridge that could be used in both revolvers and automatic pistols.
The .38 Special S&W CTG was initially designed for use in revolvers and was used by law enforcement agencies in the United States. It was also used by the military during World War II and saw action in both the European and Pacific theaters. Today, the .38 Special S&W CTG is still in use by law enforcement agencies and is a popular cartridge for civilian use.
Characteristics of the .38 Special S&W CTG
The .38 Special S&W CTG is a centerfire cartridge that is designed for use in revolvers. It has a bullet diameter of .357 inches and a case length of 1.155 inches. The cartridge is available in a number of different loadings, ranging from light target loads to heavy-duty +P loads.
The standard .38 Special S&W CTG loading features a 158-grain lead bullet with a muzzle velocity of around 750 feet per second. This loading is suitable for use in both revolvers and automatic pistols. The +P loading features a heavier bullet and a higher muzzle velocity, making it more suitable for self-defense and law enforcement applications.
Applications of the .38 Special S&W CTG
The .38 Special S&W CTG is a versatile cartridge that is suitable for a range of applications. It is commonly used for target shooting, self-defense, and law enforcement applications. The cartridge is particularly popular for concealed carry due to its compact size and effectiveness.
When used for self-defense, the .38 Special S&W CTG is typically loaded with +P ammunition for maximum effectiveness. The cartridge is also commonly used by law enforcement agencies, particularly for undercover or plainclothes work where a smaller, more concealable firearm is needed.
Conclusion
The .38 Special S&W CTG is a popular cartridge that has been in use for over a century. It is a versatile cartridge that is suitable for a range of applications, including target shooting, self-defense, and law enforcement work. Whether you are a seasoned shooter or a newcomer to firearms, the .38 Special S&W CTG is a cartridge that you should consider for your next firearm purchase.