The .38 Super is a powerful and versatile handgun cartridge known for its speed, accuracy, and reliability. Originally designed in the 1920s, it has remained a favorite among competitive shooters, law enforcement, and gun enthusiasts. This article delves into the history, performance, uses, and advantages of the .38 Super to provide a comprehensive understanding of this remarkable round.
History of the .38 Super
The .38 Super was introduced in 1929 as an improvement over the .38 ACP. Designed to provide higher velocity and better penetration, it quickly gained popularity among law enforcement agencies in the United States. During the Prohibition era, criminals began wearing body armor, and standard .38 caliber rounds struggled to penetrate these defenses. The .38 Super, with its increased power, became a solution for police forces.
.38 Super vs. .38 ACP
The .38 Super is often mistaken for the .38 ACP, but they are not the same. While both cartridges have similar dimensions, the .38 Super operates at a much higher pressure. This increased pressure gives it greater velocity and stopping power, making it more effective in both defense and competition.
Performance and Ballistics
The .38 Super is known for its high velocity, typically reaching speeds of 1,200 to 1,400 feet per second (fps). Compared to the .45 ACP and 9mm, it offers a flatter trajectory and less recoil, making it easier to control and more accurate at longer distances. The round is capable of producing 500 to 600 foot-pounds of energy, making it effective for self-defense and law enforcement use.
Popularity in Competitive Shooting
One of the biggest reasons for the .38 Super’s longevity is its dominance in competitive shooting. The round is widely used in IPSC (International Practical Shooting Confederation) and USPSA (United States Practical Shooting Association) matches due to its speed, accuracy, and low recoil. Many top shooters prefer the .38 Super over 9mm because it allows them to meet major power factor requirements while still benefiting from reduced recoil.
Advantages Over Other Handgun Rounds
The .38 Super has several advantages over other handgun cartridges, including:
Higher Velocity – It outperforms 9mm and .45 ACP in terms of speed.
Flatter Trajectory – Shooters experience improved accuracy at longer ranges.
Penetration Power – It can penetrate barriers better than standard 9mm rounds.
Less Recoil – This makes follow-up shots faster and more accurate.
Reliability in 1911 Pistols – The .38 Super was originally designed for 1911-style handguns, making it a perfect match for this legendary firearm.
Is the .38 Super Good for Self-Defense?
The .38 Super is an excellent choice for self-defense due to its high velocity and penetration power. Unlike 9mm rounds, which may struggle against tougher barriers, the .38 Super can effectively stop threats even in challenging conditions. Additionally, its manageable recoil ensures better accuracy in high-stress situations.
Law Enforcement and Military Use
Although not as commonly used today as 9mm or .40 S&W, the .38 Super was once a preferred choice for police and military forces. In countries where civilians are restricted from owning military calibers like 9mm, the .38 Super remains a popular alternative for security forces and law enforcement personnel.
.38 Super vs. 9mm
The .38 Super and 9mm share similarities, but there are key differences:
Velocity: The .38 Super is faster, averaging 200–300 fps more than 9mm.
Energy: The .38 Super delivers more energy on impact.
Penetration: It outperforms 9mm in barrier penetration tests.
Recoil: The .38 Super has slightly more recoil but is still manageable.
Reloading the .38 Super
Handloaders love the .38 Super because it offers a wide range of bullet weights and powders to experiment with. Common bullet weights include 115, 124, and 130 grains, each offering different advantages in velocity and energy. Reloading allows shooters to fine-tune their rounds for optimal performance in competitive or defensive situations.
Ammunition Availability and Cost
One downside of the .38 Su’per is that it is not as widely available as 9mm or .45 ACP. While some major ammunition manufacturers produce .38 Su’per rounds, they are often more expensive. However, for those who reload, this cost can be significantly reduced.
Best Firearms Chambered in .38 Su’per
Several high-quality firearms are chambered in .3’8 Super, with the 1911 platform being the most popular. Some of the best options include:
Colt 1911 .38 Su’per – A classic choice for enthusiasts.
STI 2011 – A modern competition gun built for speed.
EAA Witness Elite Match – A great balance of price and performance.
Sig Sauer P220 – A high-quality semi-auto option.
Customizing and Upgrading a .38 Super Pistol
Shooters who use the .38 Su’per in competition or self-defense often customize their firearms with:
Match-grade barrels for better accuracy.
Compensators to reduce muzzle rise.
Extended magazines for higher capacity.
Optics and red dot sights for faster target acquisition.
The Future of .38 Super
While the .38 Su’per is not as mainstream as 9mm, it remains popular in certain circles. As competition shooting grows, more shooters are discovering its advantages. Additionally, in countries with caliber restrictions, the .38 Super continues to be a viable alternative.
Conclusion
The .38 Su’per is a legendary cartridge that offers speed, power, and accuracy. Whether used for competition, self-defense, or law enforcement, it provides advantages over traditional handgun rounds. While it may not be as commonly available as 9mm, its performance makes it a top choice for those who demand reliability and precision.
FAQs
Is .38 Su’per better than 9mm?
Yes, in terms of velocity, power, and penetration, the .38 Super outperforms 9mm, making it an excellent choice for competition and self-defense.
Can I shoot .38 Su’per in a .38 ACP gun?
No, the .38 Su’per operates at a higher pressure than .38 ACP, which could damage a gun designed only for .38 ACP.
Is the .38 Su’per legal for self-defense?
Yes, in most places, the .38 Sup’er is legal for self-defense and is a great option due to its power and accuracy.
Why do competition shooters prefer .38 ‘Super?
Many shooters prefer the .38 Su’per because it meets major power factor requirements while offering less recoil and a flatter trajectory.
How much does .38 S’uper ammo cost?
Ammunition prices vary, but .38 Su’per is generally more expensive than 9mm due to lower production volume. Reloading can help reduce costs.
