What is .38 super auto?

The .38 Super Auto is a semi-automatic pistol cartridge that was introduced in the late 1920s. It was designed to offer higher performance than the .38 ACP (Automatic Colt Pistol) cartridge, which was considered somewhat underpowered.

• History and Development: The .38 Super's development was driven by a desire for a cartridge suitable for law enforcement and military use, offering better penetration and range than the .45 ACP, while also being able to defeat early automobile bodies and light cover. Its early designation was the .38 Super Automatic Colt Pistol (ACP).

• Cartridge Specifications: The .38 Super typically uses a 0.356-inch diameter bullet. The cartridge case is longer than the 9mm Luger, although the overall length of the cartridge is similar. The main differentiating factor is the higher operating pressure, contributing to its greater velocity.

• Performance: The .38 Super offers significantly higher velocity and energy than the 9mm Luger in some loadings. This higher performance made it popular in sports like IPSC (International Practical Shooting Confederation) where power factor is a consideration.

• Popularity and Use: While never widely adopted by the US military or law enforcement, the .38 Super gained popularity among competition shooters, particularly in Latin America. Today it also has some niche popularity for self-defense, especially in countries where civilian ownership of certain military calibers is restricted. Modern variations like the .38 Super Comp and .38 Super +P have emerged.

• Variants: The .38 Super has seen several variations and improvements over time, including the .38 Super +P, which indicates a higher pressure loading, and the .38 Super Comp, optimized for competition use with compensators.

• Firearms Chambered in .38 Super: Many 1911-style pistols have been chambered in .38 Super, including those made by Colt, Springfield Armory, and others. Some modern pistols from companies like STI/Staccato also offer .38 Super options.

History and Development Cartridge Specifications Performance Popularity and Use Variants Firearms Chambered in .38 Super