.38 to mm

2 min read 18-10-2024

.38 to mm: Understanding Caliber Conversions

When it comes to firearms, understanding the different caliber measurements is crucial. While some use the familiar .38 caliber, others use the metric system with millimeters (mm). This can be confusing, especially for those new to firearms. In this article, we'll delve into the conversion between .38 and mm, explaining the different types of .38 calibers and their corresponding metric equivalents.

What is .38 caliber?

.38 caliber, often called ".38 Special," refers to a type of firearm ammunition. It was developed in the late 19th century and has been a popular choice for revolvers and pistols. The .38 designation is based on the diameter of the bullet (not the casing!), which measures approximately 0.38 inches.

However, the "0.38" is just an approximation. The actual diameter of a .38 caliber bullet is closer to 0.357 inches (9.06 mm) due to the way the measurements are taken.

.38 to mm Conversion: The Twist

To understand the mm conversion, it's important to remember that there are multiple types of .38 caliber ammunition. The most common are:

.38 Special: This is the original .38 caliber, designed for revolvers. A common bullet diameter is 9.06 mm.
.38 Short Colt: This older cartridge was developed in the 1870s. Its bullet diameter is the same as the .38 Special, around 9.06 mm.
.38 Super: This is a higher-powered cartridge used in some semi-automatic pistols. The bullet diameter is 9.06 mm.

Important Note: Some sources may show the .38 Special and .38 Super as 9.02 mm, which is a slight rounding down of the actual measurement.

.38 to mm: More Than Just the Bullet

While the bullet diameter is the primary focus, .38 caliber also refers to the case dimensions which vary between the different types.

.38 Special: The case is 29.5 mm long.
.38 Short Colt: The case is 17.8 mm long.
.38 Super: The case is 29.7 mm long.

Why is it Important to Know the Conversion?

Understanding the .38 to mm conversion is crucial for several reasons:

Choosing Ammunition: Knowing the metric equivalent of the .38 caliber helps ensure you're choosing the right ammunition for your firearm.
Understanding Ballistics: Bullet size and weight are crucial factors in determining ballistics, the science of projectile motion.
Communication with Other Shooters: In some circles, metric measurements are more common, so familiarity with the conversion is essential.

Conclusion

The conversion between .38 caliber and mm is not always straightforward, as different .38 types exist with slightly varying dimensions. However, understanding the basic principles of measurement and recognizing the various types of .38 ammunition is key to using firearms safely and effectively.

Remember, always follow safe handling procedures and consult your firearm's manual for specific ammunition recommendations.

Note: Information and conversion values used in this article are based on common sources and may vary slightly. Always consult reliable resources for accurate and precise measurements.