38 LONG COLT AMMO

A QUICK "PRIMER" ON 38 LONG COLT AMMO

The .38 Long Colt cartridge traces its origins to the 1870s, developed during a period of rapid advancement in American sidearm technology. Adopted by the U.S. military in 1892, it served as the standard revolver cartridge until the early 20th century. While ultimately replaced by more powerful rounds like the .45 ACP, 38 Long Colt ammo remains deeply rooted in firearms history and continues to be enjoyed by cowboy action shooters, collectors, and enthusiasts of vintage revolvers.

Standard 38 Long Colt ammunition typically features bullets weighing between 125 and 150 grains. Known for its soft recoil and easy handling, this cartridge is best suited for close-range target practice and competitive cowboy shooting events. Its moderate performance and smooth-shooting characteristics make it especially attractive for those looking to experience the balance and charm of 19th-century revolver ballistics.

A key point of confusion among shooters is the difference between .38 Long Colt and .38 Special. Despite their similar names and shared lineage, the .38 Special is a longer, higher-pressure cartridge. It should not be fired in firearms chambered exclusively for 38 Long Colt, as doing so may pose serious safety risks. Always check your firearm’s barrel or documentation to ensure correct chambering before loading any Colt ammunition.

While the cartridge is no longer mainstream, leading manufacturers continue to produce 38 Long Colt ammo for sale. Brands like Black Hills Ammunition are known for delivering consistent, high-quality loads ideal for range work and historical shooting. Ten-X Ammunition, a favorite in the cowboy action community, offers loads that meet the requirements of sanctioned events and reproduce the performance of the original black powder-era cartridges.

TOP CONSIDERATIONS WHEN BUYING 38 LONG COLT AMMO

Choosing the right 38 Long Colt ammo involves understanding your specific shooting needs and matching your ammunition to the condition and purpose of your firearm. Because this cartridge is most commonly used in vintage or reproduction revolvers, careful selection ensures both safety and satisfaction on the range.

Purpose: Identifying your intended use is critical. If you're purchasing ammo for recreational target shooting or casual range time, standard loads with moderate velocity will serve well. For cowboy action shooting or historical reenactments, some manufacturers offer specially tuned loads that meet power factor and velocity regulations used in competitive events. Collectors may also seek period-authentic rounds or loads that replicate black powder performance.

Bullet Type: The majority of .38 Long Colt ammunition is loaded with lead round nose (LRN) bullets, ideal for consistent target practice and traditional shooting. However, these bullets can produce more fouling than jacketed rounds. Shooters considering self-defense applications should remember that this cartridge is underpowered by modern standards, and only certain low-pressure loads should be used in older revolvers. Always verify that your firearm can safely handle the selected ammunition before use.

Choosing a Manufacturer: Quality matters—especially when dealing with a cartridge designed for use in older platforms. Trusted names like Black Hills Ammunition and Ten-X Ammunition specialize in producing safe, consistent Colt ammunition for vintage revolvers and cowboy action disciplines. These manufacturers understand the nuances of pressure ratings and bullet profiles for older firearms and provide dependable options tailored to historical calibers.

Firearm Condition: Since many firearms chambered for 38 Long Colt are either antique or reproduction models, it's essential to have your revolver inspected by a qualified gunsmith before use. Even standard smokeless powder loads can create pressures too high for worn or poorly maintained guns. Confirm your firearm's structural integrity and chambering before firing any modern 38 Long Colt ammo for sale, especially if it was originally designed for black powder.

38 LONG COLT AMMO FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I shoot .38 Special ammunition in my .38 Long Colt revolver?

No, .38 Special is longer and loaded to higher pressures than .38 Long Colt ammo and should not be used in firearms specifically chambered for the latter. Using incompatible ammunition can damage the firearm and pose serious safety risks. Always follow your firearm's stamped caliber and consult a qualified gunsmith when in doubt.

Is .38 Long Colt ammunition still manufactured?

Yes, although it’s considered a niche caliber, 38 Long Colt ammo is still produced by companies like Black Hills Ammunition and Ten-X, which cater to the needs of cowboy action shooters, vintage revolver collectors, and reenactors. Availability may vary, so buying in bulk when 38 Long Colt ammo for sale is in stock is recommended.

What is the effective range of .38 Long Colt?

The .38 Long Colt performs best at close range, with an effective distance of up to 50 yards. Its mild recoil and consistent performance make it ideal for target shooting, cowboy action stages, and other controlled settings where high power is not required.

Is .38 Long Colt suitable for self-defense?

While historically used as a military and civilian defense round, by modern standards, 38 Long Colt lacks the velocity and terminal ballistics necessary for effective self-defense. Additionally, many revolvers chambered in this caliber are older and not designed for modern defensive loads, further limiting practicality in a defensive role.

Can I reload .38 Long Colt ammunition?

Yes, reloading is a popular option for this caliber. 38 Long Colt can be handloaded using standard dies and components, allowing shooters to maintain supply and fine-tune performance. Care must be taken when reloading for antique firearms, use conservative powder charges and always refer to verified load data.

Can I shoot .38 Long Colt in a .357 Magnum revolver?

Some .357 Magnum and .38 Special revolvers may chamber and fire .38 Long Colt due to similar case diameters. However, accuracy and extraction may vary, and not all revolvers support proper head spacing for the shorter round. Check with the firearm’s manufacturer or a gunsmith before attempting this combination.

What are the differences between .38 Long Colt and .38 Short Colt?

The .38 Long Colt is a lengthened and slightly more powerful version of the .38 Short Colt. While they share similar diameters, the longer case provides increased powder capacity and velocity. They are not always interchangeable, always verify chamber compatibility before use.

How does .38 Long Colt compare to .38 Special?

.38 Special is a more modern and powerful evolution of the .38 Long Colt, offering higher pressure, longer range, and more defensive utility. While both use similar bullet diameters, they are not interchangeable unless the firearm is specifically rated for both calibers.

Where can I find bulk 38 Long Colt ammo?

Target Sports USA offers bulk 38 Long Colt ammo when available, with free shipping options and selections from trusted brands. Due to limited production, it’s advisable to act quickly when stock is listed.

What kind of bullets are used in 38 Long Colt ammunition?

Most .38 Long Colt ammunition uses lead round nose (LRN) bullets in the 125 - 150 grain range, maintaining historical accuracy and performance. Some modern offerings may include hollow-base bullets to better engage rifling in older barrels or cowboy action-legal rounds designed to minimize recoil and maximize cycling in timed events.

OUR TOP 38 LONG COLT AMMO RECOMMENDATIONS

• Black Hills Cowboy Action 38 Long Colt Ammunition 158 Grain Lead Round Nose - DCB38CLTN1: Manufactured with high-quality components, including non-corrosive Boxer primers and reloadable brass casings, this ammunition ensures durability and ease of maintenance. The muzzle velocity of 650 feet per second and energy of 148 foot-pounds provide manageable recoil, allowing for extended shooting sessions without excessive fatigue. Packaged in period-correct boxes of 50 rounds, the Black Hills Cowboy Action 38 Long Colt ammunition not only performs exceptionally but also adds a touch of authenticity to your shooting experience. Whether you're participating in cowboy action competitions or enjoying a day at the range, this ammunition offers the reliability and performance that shooters have come to expect from Black Hills Ammunition.

• Use Cases for 38 Long Colt Ammunition

  • Target Shooting
  • Cowboy Action Shooting
  • Historical Firearm Collecting
  • Recreational Plinking
  • Educational Demonstrations

• Popular 38 Long Colt Ammo Brands

• Common 38 Long Colt Ammo Caliber Name Variations

  • .38 Long Colt
  • 38 LC
  • 38 Colt Long

THE 38 LONG COLT AMMO "ROUND UP"

Whether you're preserving the legacy of antique revolvers or stepping into the world of cowboy action shooting, 38 Long Colt ammo offers a timeless and rewarding experience. Though not as widespread as modern calibers, this cartridge delivers smooth recoil, historical significance, and functional performance for close-range target work and reenactment scenarios. At Target Sports USA, we proudly support collectors, competitors, and classic firearm fans with a curated inventory of .38 Long Colt ammo for sale from top manufacturers like Black Hills and Ten-X. With reliable options, competitive pricing, and free shipping on bulk 38 Long Colt ammo, we’re here to help you keep history alive—one shot at a time.