How Fast is a.38 Bullet?
The.38 caliber is a popular choice for handguns, known for its accuracy and stopping power. But have you ever wondered how fast a.38 bullet travels when fired from a handgun? In this article, we’ll delve into the details and provide a comprehensive answer to this question.
What is a.38 Bullet?
Before we dive into the speed of a.38 bullet, let’s define what a.38 bullet is. A.38 bullet is a type of handgun cartridge that uses a.38 caliber bullet, which is 0.375 inches (9.53 mm) in diameter. The.38 caliber is one of the most popular handgun calibers, widely used for self-defense, hunting, and target shooting.
The Speed of a.38 Bullet
The speed of a.38 bullet depends on several factors, including the type of handgun, the load, and the distance from the muzzle. Here are some general guidelines on the speed of a.38 bullet:
- Muzzle velocity: The muzzle velocity of a.38 bullet typically ranges from 700 to 1,200 feet per second (fps). This means that the bullet exits the muzzle of the handgun at a speed of around 700-1,200 fps.
- Average velocity: The average velocity of a.38 bullet is around 900-1,000 fps. This is the speed at which the bullet travels over a distance of 25 yards (23 meters) from the muzzle.
- Terminal velocity: The terminal velocity of a.38 bullet is around 400-600 fps. This is the speed at which the bullet slows down due to air resistance and gravity.
Factors Affecting Bullet Speed
Several factors can affect the speed of a.38 bullet, including:
- Handgun: The type of handgun used can affect the speed of the bullet. For example, a revolver may produce a slower muzzle velocity than a semi-automatic pistol.
- Load: The type of load used can also affect the speed of the bullet. For example, a hollow-point load may produce a slower muzzle velocity than a full-metal-jacket load.
- Distance: The distance from the muzzle can also affect the speed of the bullet. As the bullet travels further, it will slow down due to air resistance and gravity.
- Air resistance: Air resistance can slow down the bullet, especially at longer distances.
- Gravity: Gravity can also slow down the bullet, especially at longer distances.
Comparison to Other Calibers
To put the speed of a.38 bullet into perspective, here’s a comparison to other popular handgun calibers:
| Caliber | Muzzle Velocity (fps) | Average Velocity (fps) | Terminal Velocity (fps) |
|---|---|---|---|
| .38 Special | 700-1,200 | 900-1,000 | 400-600 |
| 9mm | 1,200-1,400 | 1,200-1,300 | 600-800 |
| .45 ACP | 900-1,200 | 1,000-1,100 | 500-700 |
| .40 S&W | 1,000-1,200 | 1,100-1,200 | 600-800 |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the speed of a.38 bullet can vary depending on several factors, including the type of handgun, load, and distance. On average, a.38 bullet travels at a speed of around 900-1,000 fps, with a muzzle velocity of around 700-1,200 fps and a terminal velocity of around 400-600 fps. By understanding the factors that affect bullet speed, you can make informed decisions about the type of handgun and load to use for your specific needs.
