MyLoads Open the calculator →

38-40 Winchester Load Data & Ballistics Calculator

Estimate chamber pressure and muzzle velocity for the 38-40 Winchester with the free, in-browser MyLoads internal-ballistics simulator. The figures below are illustrative estimates from a physics model — not a recommended recipe. Always cross-check a current published loading manual.

38-40 Winchester reference

Maximum average pressure (MAP)14,000 CUP
Nominal case capacity38.0 gr H₂O
Groove / bullet diameter0.400 in (10.16 mm)

Example simulation illustrative

Bullet
Hornady 0.400 180 gr FMJ-FP
Powder
Alliant Unique
Charge
8 gr
Barrel
6.5 in

Muzzle velocity

1,023 fps

Peak chamber pressure (interval, ±10% burn-rate)

15,765 – 17,099 – 18,320 psi

maximum average pressure for this cartridge is specified as 14,000 CUP (CUP is not directly comparable to this psi estimate)

Illustrative example — every figure here is an estimate and can be wrong. Always consult a current published loading manual, and never trust these numbers on their own.

Open the 38-40 Winchester in the MyLoads calculator →

More cartridges