.357 Magnum, 38 Special Compatability

salzo

January 10, 2003 10:35

Is it true that you can use 38special ammo in a gun chambered for 357 magnum?
If so, are there any 357 magnums that you cant shoot 38specials?
The reason I ask is I am thinking about buying a Ruger Security six 357 magnum. If it is interchangeable with 38specials, I will buy it.
Im a little unsure because in my gun book, it lists a certain Ruger as a 357 magnum/38 special, but lists the security six as 357 magnum only.
Thanks for any help.

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  MFI

  January 10, 2003 11:00

  As far as I know the Security six will handle either .357mag or .38 special ammo. All revolvers should be able to handle either cartridge.

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  SurfSalvage

  January 10, 2003 11:39

  Being the only physical difference is the case length the 357 being .135 longer than the 38 Spl. It is no different than a 32 colt short in a 32 Colt long or 32 New Police cylinder or 32 S&W short in a 32 S&W long.
  
  BTW 38 short and long colt can be safely fired in a 38 special.
  
  
  
  
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  rldowns3

  January 10, 2003 12:30

  any .357 magnum chambered revolver can handle .38spl ammo but not the other way around.

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  Horse Plains Drifter

  January 10, 2003 16:12

  I have been told by knowledgable people that you can fire 38 spl. rounds in a 357 mag.
  
  I have been doing so in my model 66 Smith for 20 years with no apparent ill effects.
  
  38's have less noise and are fun for targets/plinking. I stay loaded with magnums for defense.

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  mballai

  January 10, 2003 17:36

  FWIW, FBI agents often had 38 +Ps in S&W 357s when the wheelgun was still a main carry choice among them.
  
  I would recommend that people using 357s load magnum cases lighter for target practice rather than use 38s. No real difference, but it makes life simpler. It's a pain to separate 38 and 357 cases from the tumbler.
  
  Three Precious Metals: Gold, silver and lead

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  TED GAR

  January 12, 2003 12:57

  You can always go shorter. Yes 38 specials in 357 magnum revolvers.
  You can use 44 specials in 44 magnum. You can use 44wcf in a 44-40.
  Never use them the other way around. They should not fit. A MAGNUM SHOULD NEVER FIT..If is does do not fire it. your weapon will explode.
  The gun industry sees to it that it only works one way. THERE WAS A SMALL LOT OF CHARTER ARM 44 BULLDOGS THAT WOULD CHAMBER A 44 MAGNUM, BUT THEY WERE SUPPOSEDLY RECALLED, AS THESE GUNS BLEW UP...

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