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Winchester makes a personal defense Silvertip HP in both 38 Special (110 grain) and 38 Special +P (125 grain). Both have published muzzle velocity of 945 fps. Muzzle energy is quoted as 218 for the 38 Special, and 248 for the 38 Special +P.
These ballistics are so similar. What is the real difference here? Can anyone help shed some light?
Hi and welcome to the forum!
I'm thinking that the 110 grain load is provided for those who don't want to use +P ammunition in their revolver. The 125 grain load may achieve the same published velocity as the 110 grain load but with additional pressure.
I'm not familiar with the types of bullets used in each of these loads. With accurate shot placement either one could be effective. With bad hits neither could be counted on.
I'm of the opinion that +P ammunition is overrated as to the abuse it deals a good quality revolver.
Well, 38 Special (110 grain) is what my wife shoots...not as powerful and makes for easier shooting for her. I like her using these...:yup:
Agree with both respondents. As retsupt99 noted, given the information you listed, the 110-grain load will likely have a lower felt recoil than the 125-grain load in any given revolver, and would thus be easier for a recoil-sensitive person to tolerate.
Welcome from Middle Tennessee, BTW!
Welcome to DC from Florida.
The Silvertip is a good non +p load in .38. In snubs it tends to tumble and expand unevenly. Expands much better from longer barrels in my experience. I second what bmcgilvray said. Right on the money.
As for recoil, in a steel frame revolver:
110 non +p has 5.4 ft/lbs free recoil at .7lb/sec
125gr +p has 6.4 ft/lbs at .8 lb/sec
A noticible difference.