Estimate chamber pressure and muzzle velocity for the 38 Special +P with the free, in-browser MyLoads internal ballistics simulator. The figures below are illustrative estimates from a physics model — not a recommended load. Always cross-check a current published loading manual.
| Maximum average pressure (MAP) | 20,000 psi |
|---|---|
| Nominal case capacity | 23.5 gr H₂O |
| Groove / bullet diameter | 0.357 in (9.07 mm) |
Muzzle velocity
Peak chamber pressure (interval, ±10% burn rate)
nominal is 79% MAP (20,000 psi)
The simulator isn't optimized for this cartridge yet and may read pressure low.
Illustrative example — every figure is an estimate; always confirm your load against a current published manual before loading.
Powders and bullets handloaders commonly use for the 38 Special +P, drawn from public discussion and listed most common first. They appear as the Popular group in the calculator's pickers. This is not a load recommendation — always check your load against a current published manual.
Use MyLoads as a 38 Special +P velocity and pressure calculator: it estimates muzzle velocity, muzzle energy and the full chamber-pressure curve for your own powder, charge and barrel length, compared against the reference facts above.
Open the 38 Special +P in the MyLoads calculator →