According to all reports I can find - - -
- - -The 158 LSWCHP is still the champion .38 snub load. It is a true +P and WILL expand somewhat, even from a 1-7/8 inch barrel. Both Remington and Winchester make it, and I've heard of a similar offering from Federal, though I haven't seen any.
Many who are particularly recoil sensitive, or who are leery of this heavy a load DO like the Federal 125 Nyclad. It is a good, clean load, but, for some reason, is loaded rather lightly. Therefore, it is somewhat spotty about expansion. But it is easier to shoot well, and one is better off with an accurate load and precise placement than with something of which they're frightened. (No flame here--There are handgun/load combinations that scare the fool out of me.)
I've heard similar reports of the Cor-Bon being erratic in revolvers. Also, while the really high intensity CB load isn't too bad in a medium-to-full size handgun, the muzzle blast and flash is pretty terrific in a snub. And other companys' 110 and 125 gr. .38 Spl loads usually have superior velocity, but NOT enough to make up for the much lighter bullet.
The 158 LSWCHP is controlable, with practice, by most people who can really shoot a .38 snub. I believe that a stead diet of these would shake an alloy frame revolver loose before long. For this reason, I practice with either wadcutter target loads or light .38 loads in my Airweight Chief and my alloy Colt. But both of these stay loaded with the 158 LSWCHP. They are tools, after all, and if I need to fire a cylinderful to save my life, or that of another, then so be it. They WILL NOT blow up the alloy guns--only make 'em wear much faster.
This is also a superior load for other .38 Spl revolvers, and for the first round or two in a .357 revolver. House guns for me, both my sons and my ex-wife are loaded with this cartridge. (Elder son took two javelinas back to back with it, in his six-inch Colt. Both one-shot stops. Not BIG animals, but very tenacious.)
This is as near an ideal all-around .defensive load for the .38 as I've found. And I've done a LOT of research. Adequate power, but still controlable. Low flash, medium noise, and highly accurate. Your findings may vary, but it is my choice.
Best,
Johnny.