Best .38 Special +P ammo?

[Webleymkv]

Well I do want a hollow point bullet as I said but I dont worry about the standard load "not being enough".

I think the point is that many standard pressure .38 hollowpoints either don't reliably expand or exhibit rather shallow penetration.

 

[skeeter1]

For what little it's worth...

I keep Winchester 125gr Silvertip HPs in my snubby for HD. Yes, they're expensive, but it's not like I use them every day. My handloads of 125gr Hornady XTPs loaded to +P would probably work, but I prefer factory-new ammo when the crunch-hits-the-fan.

 

[Elvishead]

Bufallo bore 158 HP or GDHP 135

The rest is up to you!

 

[Dave Chuppa]

I have been told use modern Self Defense Ammo that is the most accurate from your gun. The best High Tec ammo is no good if you can't hit what your aiming for.

 

[Jkwas]

appreciate everyone's feedback. sounds like the 158 grain lead semi wadcutter should work well for me in my snubbie .38.

If shooting +p was too much on my hand/wrist, or I couldn't get it, I would feel ok using 158gn SWC for defense. Before modern ammunition, many people were significantly harmed by this type and was considered the standard snubby load. It's flat meplat will penetrate and cut tissue just fine. I would be more hesitant to use a standard pressure hollow point as if it does expand, it won't go deep enough. It might have to go thru an arm before it gets to the torso as well. If it's slow, it better be heavy.