The Colt .38 Super Auto cartridge, while not as ubiquitous as some of its contemporaries, holds a special place in firearms history. Its powerful performance and enduring legacy make it a subject of fascination for both collectors and modern shooters. This article will delve into the history, specifications, and continued relevance of the .38 Super, exploring its strengths, weaknesses, and its surprising resurgence in popularity.
A History Steeped in Innovation
Developed by Colt in the early 20th century, the .38 Super was designed as a high-velocity, self-loading cartridge intended to outperform existing .38 caliber rounds. Its higher pressure and a longer, heavier bullet offered significant advantages in stopping power. This made it a popular choice for law enforcement and military applications, though its reign as a primary service round was relatively short. The rise of the 9mm Parabellum eventually eclipsed the .38 Super in widespread adoption.
Technical Specifications and Ballistics
Understanding the .38 Super requires examining its key specifications:
- Caliber: .38 inch (.356 inches)
- Case Type: Straight-walled rimless bottleneck
- Typical Bullet Weight: 115-130 grains
- Muzzle Velocity: Ranges widely based on barrel length and ammunition load, generally 1100-1350 fps
- Energy: Significant, exceeding many common pistol cartridges.
The .38 Super's performance is noteworthy. Its high velocity and substantial energy deliver considerable stopping power at typical engagement distances, making it effective for self-defense and competitive shooting.
The .38 Super Today: A Resurgence in Popularity
While never fully forgotten, the .38 Super has experienced a recent surge in interest among firearms enthusiasts. Several factors contribute to this renewed popularity:
- Increased Availability of Ammunition: Modern manufacturers are producing a wider range of .38 Super ammunition, including defensive and target loads.
- Competitive Shooting: The cartridge's accuracy and power make it a solid choice for various competitive shooting disciplines.
- Customizability: The .38 Super's relatively straightforward design lends itself to custom ammunition loads and modifications.
- Collector Interest: The historical significance of the .38 Super, especially its association with Colt, continues to attract collectors.
Comparing the .38 Super to other Calibers
The .38 Super occupies a unique niche among handgun cartridges. Its ballistics often surpass those of the 9mm Parabellum in terms of energy, albeit with potentially higher recoil. Compared to larger calibers, it offers a manageable recoil impulse for smaller framed handguns. This makes it a balanced choice for those seeking stopping power without excessive recoil.
Potential Drawbacks and Considerations
Despite its advantages, there are a few aspects to consider:
- Ammunition Availability: While improving, .38 Super ammo might not be as readily available as other more common calibers, particularly in certain regions.
- Recoil: The .38 Super can exhibit more recoil compared to some less powerful pistol cartridges, requiring proper shooting technique.
- Gun Selection: Finding .38 Super pistols might require more searching compared to more common calibers. However, several reputable manufacturers continue to produce firearms chambered for this cartridge.
Conclusion: A Classic with Staying Power
The Colt .38 Super, though not a mainstream round, maintains a dedicated following due to its historical significance, reliable performance, and recent resurgence in popularity. Whether for competitive shooting, self-defense, or simply appreciation for firearms history, the .38 Super remains a compelling and potent cartridge. Its enduring legacy demonstrates its enduring appeal and potential for continued relevance in the shooting world. This article hopefully provides a comprehensive overview of this interesting and powerful handgun cartridge.
