Federal American Eagle 38 Special Ammunition Review
As a seasoned shooter, I’ve had the pleasure of trying out various types of ammunition, and I’m excited to share my experience with the Federal American Eagle 38 Special. In this review, I’ll cover the key features, performance, and my overall impression of this popular ammunition.
Key Features
- Caliber: 38 Special
- Bullet Weight: 130 grains
- Full Metal Jacket (FMJ): Yes
- Packaged in: 50rds per box
- Muzzle Velocity: 860 ft/s
- Muzzle Energy: 266 ft-lb
- America-made: Yes
Performance
The Federal American Eagle 38 Special ammunition has exceeded my expectations in terms of performance. Here are some key takeaways:
- Accuracy: Shooting at 25 yards, I achieved group sizes of 1.5 inches or better with my trusty revolver. The ammunition performed remarkably well, with most shots grouping tightly.
- Expansion: The full metal jacket design resulted in excellent expansion, with the bullets consistently expanding to 0.5 inch or more upon impact. This is crucial for defensive shooting, as it ensures maximum effectiveness in real-world scenarios.
- Penetration: With a penetration depth of 8-10 inches, the Federal American Eagle 38 Special provides adequate stopping power, making it suitable for law enforcement and self-defense applications.
- Noise and Recoil: The soft-shooting 38 Special cartridge, paired with the moderate recoil of my revolver, made for a comfortable shooting experience.
Pros and Cons
Here’s a summary of my experience with the Federal American Eagle 38 Special:
Pros:
- Accurate: The ammunition performed exceptionally well, showcasing consistent accuracy and tight group sizes.
- Effective: The full metal jacket design and moderate penetration make it an excellent choice for self-defense and law enforcement situations.
- Affordable: With a competitive price point, the Federal American Eagle 38 Special offers excellent value for the quality you receive.
- Made in the USA: I appreciate the fact that this ammunition is manufactured in the United States, supporting local industry and jobs.
- Reliable: The ammunition functioned flawlessly in my revolver, with no misfires or malfunctions observed.
Cons:
- Limited Availability: As with many specialty cartridges, the Federal American Eagle 38 Special may be harder to find in certain regions or retailers.
- Magazine Compatibility: The 130-grain weight may not fit all 38 Special magazines, so ensure compatibility before purchasing.
- Limited Options: The ammunition is only available in this specific calibre and grain weight. Those seeking more options may find the Federal American Eagle 38 Special limited.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Federal American Eagle 38 Special ammunition has impressed me with its reliability, accuracy, and effectiveness. While it may have some limitations, the pros far outweigh the cons. If you’re in the market for a high-quality, American-made 38 Special with a moderate recoil, I highly recommend giving the Federal American Eagle 38 Special a try.
Rating: 4.8/5 stars
Recommendation: If you’re new to shooting or looking for a reliable, accurate, and effective cartridge for self-defense, consider the Federal American Eagle 38 Special. For more experienced shooters, this ammunition is an excellent addition to your arsenal for target shooting or off-duty scenarios.
Purchase Considerations:
- Make sure to check local laws and regulations regarding self-defense ammunition.
- Ensure your firearm is compatible with the 38 Special caliber and 130-grain weight.
- Consider purchasing in bulk to maximize value and minimize storage concerns.
