The world of handgun cartridges is vast and varied, offering a plethora of options for different applications. Two cartridges that often spark debate among enthusiasts are the 9mm Largo and the .38 Super. While both are relatively powerful and historically significant, they cater to different needs and have distinct characteristics. This in-depth comparison will explore the key differences between 9mm Largo and .38 Super, helping you understand which cartridge might be right for you.
Understanding the 9mm Largo
The 9mm Largo, also known as the 9x23mm Largo, is a relatively older cartridge, first introduced in Spain at the beginning of the 20th century. Its design is somewhat unique, featuring a rimless bottle-neck case. This design characteristic contributes to its relatively high recoil and potentially lower accuracy compared to some more modern designs. While not as widely used as other cartridges, it still holds a place in history and continues to be used in some niche applications.
9mm Largo Characteristics:
- Caliber: 9mm (.355 inch)
- Case Type: Rimless bottlenecked
- Power: Moderate to relatively high (depending on load)
- Applications: Primarily historical firearms, some custom applications
- Availability: Limited compared to more popular cartridges
Exploring the .38 Super
The .38 Super Automatic, often shortened to .38 Super, is a powerful and historically significant cartridge. Developed in the late 19th century, it was designed for semi-automatic pistols, offering a significant advantage in power over contemporary cartridges. Its straight-walled case design contributes to reliable feeding in semi-automatic pistols, making it a favorite among both collectors and competitive shooters. Its popularity stemmed, in part, from its use in the famous Colt 1911 pistol.
.38 Super Characteristics:
- Caliber: .355 inch
- Case Type: Straight-walled rimless
- Power: High
- Applications: Competition shooting, self-defense (in suitable firearms), historical firearms
- Availability: More readily available than 9mm Largo
9mm Largo vs. .38 Super: A Head-to-Head Comparison
| Feature | 9mm Largo | .38 Super |
|---|---|---|
| Caliber | 9mm (.355 inch) | .355 inch |
| Case Type | Rimless Bottlenecked | Straight-walled Rimless |
| Power | Moderate to High (depending on load) | High |
| Recoil | Relatively High | High |
| Accuracy | Can be lower than .38 Super | Generally considered higher |
| Availability | Limited | More readily available |
| Common Uses | Primarily historical firearms | Competition shooting, self-defense, historical firearms |
| Modern Usage | Niche, less prevalent than .38 Super | More prevalent, still used in competition |
Ballistic Performance: A Deeper Dive
While both cartridges use a .355-inch bullet, the difference in case design leads to significant differences in ballistic performance. The .38 Super generally delivers higher muzzle velocities and energy, resulting in a flatter trajectory and greater stopping power. The 9mm Largo, due to its bottlenecked case, typically yields lower muzzle velocity and less energy transfer. The exact figures will vary depending on the specific ammunition load, but the general trend holds true.
Note: Precise ballistic data can vary significantly depending on the manufacturer, bullet weight, and powder charge. Consult specific ammunition specifications for accurate information.
Availability and Cost
The .38 Super enjoys wider availability and distribution than the 9mm Largo. Finding 9mm Largo ammunition can be challenging, and when found, it's often more expensive. The .38 Super's greater popularity has ensured consistent manufacturing and a broader range of price points.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Cartridge
The choice between 9mm Largo and .38 Super largely depends on your intended use. If you're interested in historical firearms or a unique cartridge with a legacy, the 9mm Largo might be interesting. However, for modern applications requiring higher power, greater accuracy, and more readily available ammunition, the .38 Super emerges as the clear winner. Its superior ballistic performance, wider availability, and continued popularity in competitive shooting solidify its position as the more practical and versatile choice for most shooters. Always remember to consult relevant firearm safety guidelines and regulations before handling any firearm or ammunition.