Federal 38 Special ammo covers three jobs well: cheap practice, precise target work, and personal defense. The defense side alone has four different loads, and that is where most of the questions come from. We will start with the full table, then explain what each load is for and how to choose.
Federal 38 Special Loads at a Glance
| Load | Grain | Bullet | Velocity (fps) | Energy (ft-lb) | Pack |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| American Eagle FMJ | 130 | FMJ | 890 | 229 | 50-round box |
| Champion FMJ case | 130 | FMJ | 890 | 229 | 1,000-round case (20 x 50) |
| American Eagle RN | 158 | RN | 770 | 208 | 50-round box |
| American Eagle IRT | 100 | Lead-free FN | Not listed | Not listed | 50-round box |
| Gold Medal Match | 148 | Wadcutter | 710 | 165 | 50-round box |
| Reduced Recoil Hydra-Shok | 110 | JHP | 1,000 | 244 | 20-round box |
| Hydra-Shok +P | 129 | JHP | 950 | 258 | 20-round box |
| Hydra-Shok Deep +P | 130 | JHP | 900 | 234 | 20-round box |
| Punch +P | 120 | JHP | 1,000 | 266 | 20-round box |
All numbers are Federal’s published muzzle data. A 2-inch revolver will give you less speed than the box says.
Practice Ammo: American Eagle and Champion
For range days, start here. The American Eagle 130-grain FMJ lists 890 fps and 229 ft-lb. The Champion 130-grain FMJ has the same listed numbers and comes in a 1,000-round case. That is the better buy if you shoot every week.
The American Eagle 158-grain round nose lists 770 fps and 208 ft-lb. The 158-grain lead round nose is the classic old service load weight. It is a good match for older revolvers and for cowboy guns.
Indoor Range Training (IRT)
The American Eagle IRT load uses a 100-grain lead-free flat nose bullet. It is built for indoor ranges that limit lead. Federal does not list speed for it in our catalog, so we leave that out.
Target Ammo: Gold Medal Match Wadcutter
The Gold Medal Match 148-grain wadcutter lists 710 fps and 165 ft-lb. It is a soft, accurate load made for bullseye and other target work. The flat face cuts clean holes in paper. Our 38 Special wadcutter guide goes deeper on this bullet style.
Defense Ammo: Hydra-Shok and Punch
Hydra-Shok Reduced Recoil
This load uses a 110-grain Hydra-Shok hollow point at standard pressure. It lists 1,000 fps and 244 ft-lb. It is a good fit for light revolvers and for shooters who want less kick. Since it is not +P, it works in any 38 Special revolver in good shape.
Hydra-Shok +P
The Hydra-Shok +P 129-grain lists 950 fps and 258 ft-lb. Hydra-Shok has a center post in the hollow point cavity. Federal has used this design for decades.
Hydra-Shok Deep +P
The Hydra-Shok Deep +P 130-grain lists 900 fps and 234 ft-lb. Federal designed the Deep version to favor penetration over wide expansion.
Punch +P
The Federal Punch +P 120-grain JHP lists 1,000 fps and 266 ft-lb. That is the highest listed energy of any Federal 38 Special load we stock. Punch is Federal’s newer, lower-cost defense line.
Laws on defensive ammo and carry vary by state and city. Check your local rules before you carry.
Practice With Your Carry Load
Range ammo and carry ammo don’t feel the same. A +P hollow point kicks harder than a 130-grain FMJ. Fire at least a few cylinders of your carry load each year. That way you know how it recoils, where it hits, and that it ejects cleanly from your revolver.
+P or Standard Pressure?
Three of Federal’s defense loads are +P. That means they run at higher pressure than standard ammo, within SAAMI limits. They give more speed and more recoil. Only use +P loads in a revolver its maker rates for +P. If your gun is old or very light, stick with the Reduced Recoil Hydra-Shok.
A .357 Magnum revolver can fire all of these 38 Special loads. Confirm it in your revolver maker’s manual. The reverse is never safe.
How to Choose Federal 38 Special Ammo
- Check your revolver’s +P rating. Look in the manual or on the barrel.
- Pick one defense load. Reduced Recoil for light guns. Hydra-Shok, Hydra-Shok Deep or Punch for +P-rated guns.
- Shoot a box of it. Make sure it hits where you aim and that you can control recoil.
- Stock up on practice ammo. American Eagle or Champion FMJ keeps cost down.
Curious how defense loads are compared? Read our guide to reading 38 Special gel test results.
Shop Federal 38 Special Ammo
Browse every load in our Federal 38 Special ammo category, or compare other brands in the main 38 Special ammo section.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best Federal 38 Special ammo for self-defense?
It depends on your revolver. For light guns not rated for +P, the Hydra-Shok Reduced Recoil 110-grain is a good fit. For +P-rated guns, Hydra-Shok, Hydra-Shok Deep and Punch are all options. Test your choice and check local laws.
Is 38 special good for self-defense?
The 38 Special has a long record with police and civilians. A quality hollow point fired from a revolver you shoot well is a common carry choice. Pick a load your gun is rated for, practice often, and check your state and local rules.
Is 38 special more powerful than 9mm?
Standard 38 Special loads usually carry less energy than typical 9mm loads. For example, the Federal 38 Special Punch +P 120-grain lists 266 ft-lb, while the Federal Punch 9mm 124-grain lists 364 ft-lb. Shot placement and bullet design still matter most.
What does IRT mean on Federal ammo?
IRT stands for Indoor Range Training. Federal’s American Eagle IRT 38 Special load uses a 100-grain lead-free flat nose bullet. It is aimed at indoor ranges that limit lead exposure.
Can I shoot Federal 38 Special in a 357 Magnum?
Yes. A .357 Magnum revolver in good condition can fire 38 Special ammo, including +P loads. Confirm it in your revolver maker’s manual. Many people practice with 38 Special because it has less recoil and costs less. Never fire .357 Magnum in a gun chambered only for 38 Special.
