The Smith & Wesson 38, also known as the Smith & Wesson Model 10, is a revolver that has been in production since 1899. It is one of the most iconic and enduring firearms in the world, with a reputation for reliability, accuracy, and durability. The Model 10 was originally designed as a military sidearm, but it has also been widely used by law enforcement and civilians for self-defense and target shooting.
History and Development
The Smith & Wesson 38 was first introduced in 1899, as a response to the U.S. military’s need for a more powerful and reliable sidearm. The revolver was designed by Smith & Wesson’s chief designer, Joseph Wesson, and was initially chambered in.38 Long Colt. The Model 10 was an instant success, and it quickly became the standard-issue sidearm for the U.S. military. Over the years, the revolver has undergone several design changes and improvements, including the introduction of new calibers, such as.38 Special and.357 Magnum.
Design and Features
The Smith & Wesson 38 is a double-action revolver, meaning that it can be fired by either pulling the trigger or cocking the hammer and then pulling the trigger. The revolver has a six-shot cylinder, and it is typically chambered in.38 Special or.357 Magnum. The Model 10 has a 4-inch or 6-inch barrel, and it weighs approximately 34 ounces. The revolver is known for its simple and reliable design, which makes it easy to maintain and repair. The Smith & Wesson 38 also has a reputation for being highly accurate, with a smooth trigger pull and a consistent cylinder rotation.
| Caliber | Barrel Length | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| .38 Special | 4 inches | 34 ounces |
| .357 Magnum | 6 inches | 36 ounces |
Key Points
- The Smith & Wesson 38 is a double-action revolver with a six-shot cylinder.
- The revolver is typically chambered in.38 Special or.357 Magnum.
- The Model 10 has a 4-inch or 6-inch barrel, and it weighs approximately 34 ounces.
- The Smith & Wesson 38 is known for its reliability, accuracy, and durability.
- The revolver is a popular choice among law enforcement, military, and civilian shooters.
Performance and Ballistics
The Smith & Wesson 38 is known for its excellent performance and ballistics. The revolver is capable of firing a variety of ammunition, including.38 Special and.357 Magnum. The.38 Special cartridge has a muzzle velocity of approximately 850 feet per second, while the.357 Magnum cartridge has a muzzle velocity of approximately 1,200 feet per second. The revolver’s accuracy is also impressive, with a typical grouping of 2-3 inches at 25 yards.
Ammunition and Ballistics
The Smith & Wesson 38 can fire a variety of ammunition, including.38 Special,.357 Magnum, and.38 Long Colt. The.38 Special cartridge is a popular choice for self-defense and target shooting, while the.357 Magnum cartridge is often used for hunting and law enforcement applications. The ballistics of the Smith & Wesson 38 vary depending on the type of ammunition used, but the revolver is generally capable of delivering excellent accuracy and stopping power.
| Caliber | Muzzle Velocity | Grouping |
|---|---|---|
| .38 Special | 850 feet per second | 2-3 inches at 25 yards |
| .357 Magnum | 1,200 feet per second | 1-2 inches at 25 yards |
What is the typical barrel length of the Smith & Wesson 38?
+The typical barrel length of the Smith & Wesson 38 is 4 inches or 6 inches.
What type of ammunition can the Smith & Wesson 38 fire?
+The Smith & Wesson 38 can fire.38 Special,.357 Magnum, and.38 Long Colt ammunition.
What is the muzzle velocity of the.38 Special cartridge?
+The muzzle velocity of the.38 Special cartridge is approximately 850 feet per second.
The Smith & Wesson 38 is a legendary revolver that has been in production for over a century. Its reliability, accuracy, and durability make it a popular choice among law enforcement, military, and civilian shooters. Whether you’re looking for a self-defense sidearm or a target shooting revolver, the Smith & Wesson 38 is an excellent choice. With its excellent performance and ballistics, the Model 10 is a revolver that is sure to meet your needs.
Related Terms:
- Smith Wesson
- Smith and Wesson 38 2
