.38-56

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Bud Helms

Senior Member
This might be more appropriate for the CAS Forum, but I'll try here.

What is the .38-56? I know what the .38-55 is, but I honestly don't know about the .38-56. The brass seems to be more available. Anyone knowledgeable on this?
 
Sensop, the .38-56 Winchester cartridge was introduced in 1887 with the Winchester Model 1886. It was also chambered in the Marlin Model 1895 and the Colt Lightning. It was intended to be a super .38-55 in conception. Trying to develop increased velocity without lengthening the case. But today with smokeless powders and remaining within allowable pressures there really isn't any performance difference. Factory ballistics listed a 255gr. SP bullet at 1395fps MV & 1105fpe ME which would be adequate for deer or black bear. With maximum handloads it might be considered acceptable for a short range elk cartridge. Cases can be made from .45-70 brass. Hope this helps!

Steve Mace

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After today, its all historical
 
It IS a .45-70 casing necked down to a .375 bullet.

In truth, it wasn't much more powerful than the .38-55, which originated as a round for Ballard-made target rifles.
 
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