Winchester does not mention barrel lengths. I would presume the .357 stats are based on a handgun length barrel and rifle length with the .38-55. Given that you be gaining with the .357 and losing with .38-55, ballistics would be that much closer. In spite of all this discussion, I think my first inclination that they're fairly similar out of a 16" barrel holds.
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.38-55 v .357 carbine balistics
- Thread starter hoobens
- Start date
When I chronographed the .357 years ago through a 20-inch Marlin, I got from 1600-2100 FPS, depending on bullet weight.
Don't recall what I was getting with the .38-55 handloads through the 24-inch Marlin.
One thing to consider in .357s is that the lighter bullets are not built to be driven so much faster & may disintegrate on impact, reducing penetration.
Go heavy & well-constructed in a longer barrel.
Denis
Don't recall what I was getting with the .38-55 handloads through the 24-inch Marlin.
One thing to consider in .357s is that the lighter bullets are not built to be driven so much faster & may disintegrate on impact, reducing penetration.
Go heavy & well-constructed in a longer barrel.
Denis
If you don't plan on reloading , I would not advise getting the 38-55.....there is a reason that the Winchester factory ammo selling at a pretty high price is wimpy ! Old firearms with weaker metallurgy and actions still exist that are chambered for this cartridge ! Only some manufactures like Buffalo Bore have ammunition that is more in line with the modern actions....it is a handloader's cartridge whether your into mild cast bullet loads or hotter hunting loads period ! A 255 grain JFN bonded core bullet going out at 1950 fps is nothing to sneeze at ! Say this same load out of a 16" barrel only goes 1800 fps.......that still beats say a 180 grain .357 magnum load even at the same speed, no ?