Estimate chamber pressure and muzzle velocity for the 38 Automatic 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.
| Maximum average pressure (MAP) | 26,500 psi |
|---|---|
| Nominal case capacity | 18.0 gr H₂O |
| Groove / bullet diameter | 0.357 in (9.07 mm) |
Muzzle velocity
Peak chamber pressure (interval, ±10% burn-rate)
nominal is 52% of the 26,500 psi maximum average pressure
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 Automatic in the MyLoads calculator →