Not Really A .38

Discussion in 'Guns & Weapons' started by Hal Pollner, May 11, 2020.

  1. Hal Pollner

    Hal Pollner Veteran Member
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    If you measure the bore of a ".38 Special" revolver, you'll find that it measures only 0.357".

    So it's not even a 36 caliber!

    Hal
     
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  2. Frank Sanoica

    Frank Sanoica Supreme Member
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    @Hal Pollner

    But measure the cartridge case OD: .38". This difference applies to many small-arms calibers, but changes to bullet diameter call-out in rifle cartridges, generally. SEE: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caliber
     
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  3. Hal Pollner

    Hal Pollner Veteran Member
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    Frank, I miked the O.D. of an unfired .38 Special cartridge, and it was 0.375".

    Hal
     
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  4. Frank Sanoica

    Frank Sanoica Supreme Member
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    @Hal Pollner

    Yep, that's 3/8 inch or .38 rounded off. OTOH, 9mm is very close, being .357.
    Frank
     
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