When it comes to sharpshooting and tactical applications, the caliber of the firearm has a significant role to play. Today, we decided to discern two popular ammunition types, the 38 Super vs 357 Sig. Both of the bullets have their unique set of characteristics that make them suitable for various conditions and usages. In this blog post, we delve deep into the nitty-gritty of these calibers, comparing them on various parameters to understand them better.
Comparison Table: 38 Super vs 357 Sig
| 38 Super | 357 Sig | |
|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .356 in | .355 in |
| Case Type | Semi-rimmed | Rimless |
| Weight | 115-130 gr | 125 gr |
| Velocity | 1,215-1,350 fps | 1,350-1,450 fps |
The 38 Super Ammunition
Overview and Personal Experience
Having had the pleasure of using the 38 Super, I have noticed a few things that provide insight into it’s usability. The .38 Super caliber originated in the late 1920s as an improvement over the .38 ACP. It was designed to be used in the M1911 pistol and was capable of penetrating the car bodies and early ballistic vests that were common in that era.
The 38 Super performed better in terms of muzzle velocity. When it came to target shooting, the 38 Super was considerably accurate and reliable. However, due to its semi-rimmed design, it wasn’t suitable for some modern semi-automatic pistols; this was a considerable challenge I faced while using it.
Pros and Cons of the 38 Super
Pros:
- High muzzle velocity
- Good for long distance shooting
- Effective penetration
Cons:
- Semi-rimmed design is not suitable for all firearms
- Ammo cost is slightly high
The 357 Sig Ammunition
Overview and Personal Experience
Sharing my personal experience with the 357 Sig, it’s hard not to mention that the 357 Sig was developed in 1994 by the Federal Cartridge and SIG Sauer. Intentionally it was designed to mimic the performance of the .357 Magnum, and it proved itself by demonstrating an impressive balance of accuracy, velocity, and terminal ballistics.
When testing on practical grounds, I found that the 357 Sig was notably compatible with semi-automatic pistols due to its rimless case design. This particular feature eliminated the challenge I encountered with the 38 Super. However, its main drawback is its loud report and significant recoil, making it less favorable for some shooters.
Pros and Cons of the 357 Sig
Pros:
- Impressive ballistics
- Rimless design suitable for semi-automatic pistols
Cons:
- Substantially louder report
- Significant recoil
Detailed Comparison
By comparing the 38 Super and the 357 Sig, we understood that each caliber has its particular advantages and challenges.
The 38 Super excels in accuracy and effective penetration, making it suitable for long-distance shooting and areas where greater penetration is required. On the other hand, the 357 Sig offers a balance of round velocity, penetration, and terminal ballistics and is more compatible with semi-automatic pistols due to its rimless design.
However, each caliber also has its drawbacks. The semi-rimmed design of the 38 Super is not suitable for all modern firearms, while the loud report and recoil of the 357 Sig might be less favorable to some shooters.
Final Thoughts
In choosing between the 38 Super and the 357 Sig, it comes down to your specific needs and the type of firearm you are using. While both are effective and popular, remember to always prioritize safety and proficiency in handling any type of ammunition and firearm. No matter the caliber, a bullet is only as effective as its handler.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 38 Super more powerful than 357 SIG?
No, the 357 SIG is generally considered to be more powerful than the 38 Super. The 357 SIG typically achieves higher muzzle velocities and has a higher energy transfer due to its design. However, it is important to note that the actual power can vary depending on specific loads and bullet types.
Is a 38 Super the same as a 357?
No, the 38 Super and the 357 are not the same. While they have a similar number in their names, their origins, dimensions, and ballistics differ. The 38 Super is a rimless semi-automatic cartridge, while the 357 is a rimmed revolver cartridge. Additionally, the 38 Super operates at a higher pressure than the 357.
Which gun is more powerful, a 357 or 38 Super?
In general, the 357 is considered to be more powerful than the 38 Super. The 357 cartridge typically delivers higher velocities and has more stopping power due to its larger diameter and the option of using higher-grain bullets. However, this may vary depending on the individual firearms and ammunition used.
Can a 38 Super be fired in 357?
No, a 38 Super cartridge cannot be fired in a firearm chambered for 357. The dimensions and pressures of the two cartridges are different. Attempting to insert a 38 Super round into a 357 chamber would be unsafe and could result in severe damage to the firearm or personal injury.