Can you fire 38 SW ammunition in a 357 magnum?

Answer 1

Yes, you can shoot38 Smith and Wesson specialammunition in any 357 magnum caliber firearm, with the exception of certain lever action rifles which might not feed the shorter 38 special cartridge.

The 357 magnum cartridge is based on the 38 Smith and Wesson Special cartridge case, which is the "parent case". The magnum case is lengthened by .100 inch so that the magnum will not chamber (fit) into a 38 Smith and Wesson special firearm.

However the 38 Smith and Wesson special will always fit into a 357 magnum chamber.

The pressures generated upon firing the 357 magnum cartridge are much higher than the 38 special, the maximum allowed pressures being 35,000 psi for the 357 magnum and 17,000 for the 38 special. For this reason it would not be safe to fire the 357 magnum in a 38 special chamber.

The 38 special will not damage a 357 magnum firearm in any way, but firing 38 specials in a magnum chamber might allow dirt residue to build up in front of the shorter 38 special cartridge, eventually causing a problem chambering the longer 357 magnum once again. A cleaning of the chamber should solve this.

Answer 2

Yes, a handgun that accomodates .357 rounds will accomodate .38 rounds.

However, as firearm safety is all important, you should consult with a local expert, who is most likely the man behind the counter at the store selling the ammunition. There may be a range or a gun club in town that you could call, too.

Remember, with firearms one cannot be too safe, or get too much confirmation on what is safe.

Answer 3

Yes. You can safely use .38 caliber bullets in a .357 magnum. Many do this as .38 caliber ammo is generally cheaper than the .357 variety. Basically the only difference between the rounds is that a .357 is a longer round than a .38. Thus is why you can shoot a .38 out of a .357 but not a .357 out of a .38.

Answer 4

No, they will not fit. If for some reason they do, DO NOT ATTEMPT TO FIRE!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Take the weapon to a competent gunsmith.

Answer 5

38 special yes, 38 S&W no.