Here's some additional information about the 38 Super and 357 Magnum from SAAMI.
First, guns chambered for a given round are supposed to handle 'proof' ammo for that caliber. The proof ammo runs at a much higher pressure than regular ammo.
As has already been pointed out, the SAAMI limit for 357 Magnum is 35,000 psi. The SAAMI limit for 38 Super is 36,500 psi. That's a difference of 1,500 psi. That's not much.
The proof ammo for 357 Magnum is 50,500 psi. The proof ammo for 38 Super is 52,500 psi.
If a 357 Magnum is supposed to be able to handle a proof load of 50,500 psi, it should be able to handle a standard 38 Super of 36,500 psi.
A 38 Super will fit in some 357 Magnum chambers. It seems to fit in most of mine, though with some it's a close fit. Should the 38 Super be fired in a 357 Magnum revolver? Just about everyone will agree with the statement that it should not, if for no other reason than it is the "wrong ammo".
First, guns chambered for a given round are supposed to handle 'proof' ammo for that caliber. The proof ammo runs at a much higher pressure than regular ammo.
As has already been pointed out, the SAAMI limit for 357 Magnum is 35,000 psi. The SAAMI limit for 38 Super is 36,500 psi. That's a difference of 1,500 psi. That's not much.
The proof ammo for 357 Magnum is 50,500 psi. The proof ammo for 38 Super is 52,500 psi.
If a 357 Magnum is supposed to be able to handle a proof load of 50,500 psi, it should be able to handle a standard 38 Super of 36,500 psi.
A 38 Super will fit in some 357 Magnum chambers. It seems to fit in most of mine, though with some it's a close fit. Should the 38 Super be fired in a 357 Magnum revolver? Just about everyone will agree with the statement that it should not, if for no other reason than it is the "wrong ammo".