The .38 Special: A Legacy Forged in Lead and Fire
The .38 Special cartridge. It’s a name that whispers of classic revolvers, the Old West, and a legacy steeped in history. For many, the .38 Special isn’t just a round; it’s a tangible link to a bygone era. This iconic cartridge has been a reliable companion for law enforcement, a popular choice for self-defense, and a favorite for target shooting. While modern smokeless powders dominate today’s reloading scene, there’s a unique allure to revisiting the roots of this cartridge by loading it with blackpowder. This article will guide you through the process of reloading .38 Special rounds with Starline brass, exploring the nuances of blackpowder loads, and embracing the historical connection to this beloved caliber.
The story of the .38 Special began in the late nineteenth century, a time when advancements in firearms were rapidly transforming the landscape of personal defense and law enforcement. Born as an improved version of the .38 Long Colt, the .38 Special quickly gained a reputation for its stopping power and versatility. It was adopted by the United States military and various law enforcement agencies. Its impact extended far beyond its initial use, with the .38 Special quickly finding a home with civilian shooters as well.
The enduring popularity of the .38 Special is a testament to its balanced performance and user-friendliness. The round offered a reasonable balance of power, manageable recoil, and excellent accuracy. Revolvers chambered for this cartridge were often compact and easily concealed, making them ideal for both personal protection and target shooting.
Starline Brass: Foundation of Excellence
When embarking on the journey of reloading .38 Special rounds with blackpowder, the foundation of your ammunition rests upon the quality of your brass. The choice of brass can greatly impact the performance, longevity, and overall safety of your reloaded ammunition. Starline brass stands out as a premier choice for reloaders, and it’s particularly well-suited for the demands of blackpowder loads.
Starline brass is renowned for its consistency, durability, and the precision with which it’s manufactured. These qualities are critical for any reloader, but they are especially important when working with blackpowder, as the variable pressures and corrosive nature of blackpowder can put more stress on the cases. Starline brass’s consistent internal dimensions and wall thickness ensure uniformity in loading, contributing to more accurate and reliable results. Its exceptional durability means that Starline brass can withstand repeated reloading cycles, making it a cost-effective choice in the long run.
Using new Starline brass offers an advantage, as you begin with a fresh slate, free from any wear or damage that may have occurred during previous firings. However, once-fired Starline brass, when properly cared for and inspected, can also yield excellent results. Prior to loading, you should meticulously examine each case for any signs of damage, such as cracks, bulges, or excessive wear. Always clean and inspect your brass to achieve optimal performance.
Blackpowder: A Return to the Roots
Blackpowder, the original propellant, holds a unique place in the history of firearms. Its legacy is interwoven with the development of the .38 Special itself. Loading the .38 Special with blackpowder offers a captivating glimpse into the past, allowing shooters to experience the cartridge in a way that is authentic to its early days.
Blackpowder is a mixture of potassium nitrate (saltpeter), charcoal, and sulfur. It burns rapidly, creating a large volume of gas that propels the bullet from the barrel. The distinct smell, the billowing smoke, and the cloud of soot are all hallmarks of the blackpowder experience.
The appeal of blackpowder is in its simplicity and its historical significance. Reloading with blackpowder is not overly complex, making it accessible to reloaders of all experience levels. Additionally, blackpowder adds a unique element to the shooting experience. The visual and auditory feedback – the flash, the smoke, the satisfying *thump* – provide an experience that modern smokeless powders cannot replicate.
However, when working with blackpowder, it is critical to understand its unique characteristics and potential hazards. Blackpowder is a much more energetic propellant than smokeless powder. It produces more residue and requires careful cleaning of your firearm to prevent corrosion. Always practice caution and follow all safety guidelines when handling blackpowder.
Carefully Measuring the Grains of Blackpowder
The most important aspect of safely reloading .38 Special rounds with blackpowder involves carefully measuring the propellant. The amount of blackpowder used, expressed in grains, directly influences the bullet’s velocity and the overall pressure within the cartridge. The first rule for your safety is, **always refer to reputable reloading manuals for starting and maximum grain weight recommendations** for your bullet and case combination. Never exceed the maximum recommended load, and always begin with a conservative starting load.
The specific grain weight of blackpowder needed will vary depending on several factors:
- **Bullet Type and Weight:** Heavier bullets require a larger powder charge to achieve the desired velocity.
- **Barrel Length:** Longer barrels allow the blackpowder to burn more completely, which can slightly affect the velocity.
- **Desired Velocity:** Higher velocities demand more blackpowder.
- **Blackpowder Grade:** Different grades of blackpowder (e.g., FFg, FFFg) burn at different rates. For the .38 Special, FFg is often preferred.
**When working with blackpowder, it’s important to measure the grain weight accurately.** Volumetric measures are often employed for blackpowder because they make the measurement easy. Use a good scale or volume measure to verify your measurements. Ensure you have calibrated your scale before starting to reload.
Loading Procedures: Step-by-Step Guidance
Reloading with blackpowder, while somewhat different from using smokeless powder, still follows a basic set of steps. Always prioritize safety above all else, and meticulously follow these steps:
- **Brass Preparation:**
- Before beginning, ensure that the Starline brass is clean. Use a brass cleaner to remove any residue or debris. Once cleaned, inspect the cases for any damage.
- You’ll need to size the brass, removing any dents or deformities in the case.
- Use a primer pocket cleaner or a hand-held tool to clean the primer pockets and ensure they are the correct size.
- **Priming the Cases:**
- Insert the correct primer for the .38 Special. Be sure to use a tool designed for the specific primer size and type you’re using. The primer should be seated fully and flush with the base of the case.
- **Powder Charging:**
- Carefully measure the desired grain weight of blackpowder. Ensure the scale has been properly calibrated, and measure each charge separately. Pour the powder into the case, being cautious to avoid spills.
- **Bullet Seating:**
- Select your chosen bullet for the .38 Special. Lead bullets are a good choice.
- Seat the bullet to the recommended depth. Ensure that the bullet is seated straight, with no tilt.
- **Crimping:**
- Crimp the case mouth to secure the bullet in place. This creates the optimal pressure for the combustion of the blackpowder and can influence accuracy. A light to medium crimp is often recommended.
- **Inspection:**
- After loading, carefully inspect each round to ensure the bullet is seated correctly and that there are no obvious defects. Measure the overall length of the loaded cartridge to confirm it is within the acceptable range for your firearm.
Bullet Selection: Finding the Perfect Match
When reloading with blackpowder, the choice of bullet is also important. Lead bullets are often the preferred choice when using blackpowder in .38 Special. Their softness allows them to effectively engage the rifling in the barrel, creating a good seal and maximizing accuracy.
Lead bullets, in various weights and shapes, such as round-nose flat point, offer consistent performance. When choosing a bullet, ensure that it is compatible with your firearm’s barrel and rifling. Experimenting with different bullet weights can help you find the optimal combination for your specific firearm and blackpowder load.
Shooting and Performance: Expecting the Results
When loading .38 Special rounds with blackpowder, the goal is not necessarily to achieve the highest velocities possible. Blackpowder loads will generally produce lower velocities than modern smokeless powder loads. However, the experience and the historical connection are equally important.
The accuracy of blackpowder loads depends on several factors, including:
- **Powder Charge:** The amount of blackpowder used.
- **Bullet Type:** The quality of the lead and the bullet shape.
- **Seating Depth:** Ensuring the bullet is seated correctly.
- **Crimp:** Applying the appropriate crimp on the bullet.
Cleaning and Maintenance: Removing the Residue
One of the defining characteristics of blackpowder is the significant residue it leaves behind. Proper cleaning is crucial to prevent corrosion and ensure the longevity of your firearm.
- Immediately after shooting, disassemble your firearm and thoroughly clean all parts with hot, soapy water.
- Use a brush and patches to scrub the barrel, removing all traces of powder residue.
- Dry all parts completely before applying a light coat of oil.
Conclusion: Reclaiming a Classic Experience
Reloading .38 Special rounds with Starline brass, grains of blackpowder, and lead bullets is more than just a reloading process; it’s a journey into history. By embracing the techniques of the past, you can experience the .38 Special in its original form.
This process offers a unique connection to the early days of this iconic cartridge. The smell of the smoke, the satisfying *thump* of the shot, and the precision required to create these rounds offer a deeply engaging experience.
Remember to always prioritize safety, consult reliable reloading manuals, and follow safe practices. Reloading blackpowder can be a rewarding hobby for shooters who enjoy hands-on work.
