Petrol & Powder
Well-Known Member
I am very much a fan of both the 38 Special and the 9mm Luger. And yes, they do share nearly identical diameters.
Beyond the similarity of the diameters, they function very differently. The 9mm being a high-pressure cartridge and relying more on velocity to get the job done.
A lot of criticism surrounding both cartridges come from the widespread use of round nose bullets. The lead round nose 158 grain loading for the 38 Special was extremely common for decades, but not terribly effective as a SD round. The 115 FMJ loading for the 9mm also tended to degrade its terminal performance.
When loaded with the proper projectile and driven at the appropriate speed, both rounds are very capable.
Beyond the similarity of the diameters, they function very differently. The 9mm being a high-pressure cartridge and relying more on velocity to get the job done.
A lot of criticism surrounding both cartridges come from the widespread use of round nose bullets. The lead round nose 158 grain loading for the 38 Special was extremely common for decades, but not terribly effective as a SD round. The 115 FMJ loading for the 9mm also tended to degrade its terminal performance.
When loaded with the proper projectile and driven at the appropriate speed, both rounds are very capable.