The .38 Super Auto, often shortened to .38 Super, is a powerful and historically significant cartridge. Developed by John Browning and initially chambered in the Colt Model 1907, it later found its way into numerous Smith & Wesson firearms, solidifying its place in the history of handgun ammunition. This article explores the .38 Super's characteristics, history, applications, and its enduring appeal among firearm enthusiasts.
The History and Development of the .38 Super
The .38 Super's origin story begins in the early 20th century. John Browning, renowned firearm designer, created this cartridge as a rimless, bottlenecked design. Its intention was to offer a higher-velocity round than the then-common .38 ACP, providing improved stopping power. The Colt Model 1907, designed alongside the cartridge, was one of its earliest adopters. The success of this combination propelled the .38 Super into further development and adoption by other manufacturers, notably Smith & Wesson.
Smith & Wesson's Embrace of the .38 Super
Smith & Wesson, recognizing the potential of the .38 Super's increased power and accuracy, incorporated it into several of its handgun models. This broadened the cartridge's appeal and cemented its place in the handgun market. While not as widely adopted as some other calibers, the .38 Super's presence in S&W's lineup ensured its longevity and continued relevance.
Comparing the .38 Super to Other Calibers
To understand the .38 Super's place in the cartridge spectrum, let's compare it to some similar calibers:
| Caliber | Bullet Weight (grains) | Muzzle Velocity (fps) | Energy (ft-lbs) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| .38 Super | 130 | 1150 | 380 | High velocity, powerful, accurate |
| 9mm Parabellum | 124 | 1150 | 360 | Widely used, readily available |
| .38 ACP | 125 | 900 | 250 | Lower velocity than .38 Super, less powerful |
As you can see, the .38 Super provides a noticeable increase in velocity and energy compared to the .38 ACP, making it a more powerful option. While the 9mm Parabellum is a very popular and comparable cartridge in terms of power, the .38 Super generally features a slightly higher muzzle velocity due to its design characteristics.
Applications of the .38 Super Cartridge
The .38 Super's power and accuracy make it suitable for various applications, including:
- Competition Shooting: The cartridge's precision and consistent performance make it popular in various shooting competitions, including IPSC and other dynamic events.
- Self-Defense: While other cartridges are more commonly used for self-defense, the .38 Super offers potent stopping power in a relatively manageable package.
- Law Enforcement (Historically): The .38 Super was used to some extent in law enforcement, particularly in the early to mid-20th century, although it's been largely superseded by more modern calibers.
- Hunting (Small Game): It's effective against small game at close to moderate ranges.
Its performance makes it particularly well-suited for situations requiring high accuracy and stopping power at moderate distances.
Smith & Wesson Models Chambered in .38 Super
Smith & Wesson has chambered several models in .38 Super throughout its history. Specific models and their features are often debated among collectors and enthusiasts. Some notable examples (though this is not an exhaustive list) include certain models within their:
- SW1911 Series: S&W's take on the iconic 1911 platform frequently includes .38 Super options. These pistols are known for their reliability and accuracy.
- Pre-War Revolvers: Although less common, some older S&W revolvers might have been chambered for the .38 Super cartridge. Finding these is rare and often highly prized by collectors.
Note: It is crucial to always identify the specific model and verify the caliber before handling any firearm.
Ammunition Availability and Considerations
While not as ubiquitous as 9mm or .45 ACP, .38 Super ammunition is still readily available from various manufacturers. However, the selection might not be as vast as with more popular cartridges. It's important to source quality ammunition from reputable suppliers to ensure reliable performance and safety.
Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of the .38 Super
The .38 Super Smith & Wesson cartridge, despite not being the most common handgun round today, holds a significant place in firearms history. Its potent stopping power, coupled with its historical association with prominent manufacturers like Smith & Wesson, ensures its continued relevance among shooting enthusiasts and collectors. While newer cartridges may dominate the market, the .38 Super's unique characteristics and legacy remain. Understanding its history and capabilities offers insight into the evolution of handgun ammunition and the enduring appeal of classic firearms.