38 Super vs 45 ACP: Caliber Comparison

Understanding the differences between similar bullet calibers can be challenging because there is never really a “right answer.” The best way to know which caliber is right for you is making a decision based on each caliber’s ballistics, usage, and price. If you’re struggling to decide between 38 Super and 45 ACP, you are not alone. In this article, we will compare these two popular calibers based on the facts so that you can make an informed purchase decision.

The Short Answer: The 38 Super is known for being a high-speed version of the 38 ACP, thus having a higher velocity and higher muzzle energy, making it popular for competitive shooting. The 45 ACP, while a more common choice due to its better availability and price, is still a highly powerful long-range handgun cartridge useful for recreational range shooting and target shooting.

An In-Depth Look at the 38 Super

Birth and Early Use

The world-renowned firearm manufacturer, Colt, introduced the .38 Super in 1929. During the infamous crime-filled Prohibition era, the penetration superiority of 38 Super was a big deal. The goal here was to develop a better performing round that had the capability of penetrating armored cars and vests. Thanks to its design, the 38 Super saw heavy usage by law enforcement up until the advent of the .357 Magnum in 1935.

Velocity

Building on the legacy of its precursor, .38 ACP, the .38 Super presents itself as a high-pressure, high-velocity round. With a standard 125-grain bullet, it zooms with a velocity reaching up to 1,357 feet-per-second (fps). For the competitive shooter, this higher velocity imparts critical advantages. It offers a flatter trajectory and less bullet drop, translating into higher target accuracy. 

Recoil and Bullet Weight

The discussion on .38 Super would be incomplete without noting its size. The lesser recoil of .38 Super is due largely to its smaller diameter and lighter bullet when comparing to the .45 ACP. This combination of manageable recoil with high velocity makes .38 Super a popular choice in competitive shooting.

Other Considerations & Specific Requirements

The impressive performance of .38 Super demands specific considerations, too. Its high-pressure load, while contributing to its high velocity, requires a semi-automatic pistol specifically meant to manage it. A multitude of firearms, notably those with a ramped barrel, are designed to cater to the higher pressure load of this caliber.

Summary

In light of its high-performance features, the .38 Super is a caliber worth considering for all firearm enthusiasts. In terms of applications, .38 Super sees its most usage in the competitive shooting community. However, remember that one caliber doesn’t fit all scenarios – the right ammunition for you hinges heavily on your unique requirements and preferences.

An In-Depth Look at the 45 ACP

History & Evolution

The .45 Automatic Colt Pistol (ACP), a brainchild of the renowned American gun designer John Moses Browning, has long held a revered place in ammunition history. Since its adoption by the United States Army in the early 20th century, the .45 ACP has gradually carved out its niche among handgun users, especially within the United States.

Performance & Usage

When it comes to performance, the .45 ACP holds its ground admirably in spite of a slightly lower speed (with 230-grain .45 ACP clocking a speed of 830 fps). This doesn’t make it much less capable, especially where target shooting and self-defense are concerned. The .45 ACP is often chosen for personal protection due to its larger diameter bullet and substantial stopping power.

Availability & Cost

One significant advantage the .45 ACP holds over the .38 Super is its better availability and competitive pricing. Being a common choice among recreational shooters, the .45 ACP is widely available in a variety of bullet weights and styles, making it easier for shooters to choose the perfect grain bullet for their purposes. Its lower cost also makes it a good option for your regular practice sessions.

Recoil & Bullet Weight

Due to its heavier bullet, the 45 ACP has a bit more recoil compared to the .38 Super. However, the recoil is still manageable for a seasoned shooter, and some even prefer the distinctive “push” of the .45 ACP recoil compared to the “snap” of smaller calibers. This factor is more subjective and its significance depends largely on the individual shooter’s preference.

Summary

The .45 ACP remains a timeless classic, backed by a century of validated use and trust. Its versatility, availability, and the larger diameter bullet contribute to its continued popularity among dedicated hand gunners. Sure, it might not share the high pressure load of the .38 Super, but it carries unmatched stopping power that makes it an excellent option for personal protection.

Comparative Analysis: 38 Super vs 45 ACP

Performance

The differences in performance between the 38 Super and 45 ACP has likely become clear to you at this point. The 38 Super, with its higher muzzle velocity and energy, may outperform in terms of penetration and overall ballistics. On the other hand, the 45 ACP, typically with a heavier bullet, tends to provide more stopping power, an essential trait for a self-defense caliber.

Recoil 

One thing you always want to consider in a caliber comparison is which bullet offers less recoil. Being the lighter bullet, 38 Super ammo tends to have a slightly more manageable recoil, making it popular among competitive shooters. Conversely, 45 ACP ammo, with its heavier weight, will naturally have larger recoil. Still, many shooters find the recoil of 45 ACP tolerable and equally manageable. It should also be mentioned, when comparing recoil between these two rounds, a lot will come down to the size of the handgun it is fired out of.

Applications

The 38 Super’s superior velocity and manageable recoil lend it to competitive shooting, where these qualities can truly shine. On the other hand, the 45 ACP’s availability and better stopping power make it a top pick for self-defense and recreational range shooting.

Pricing & Availability 

In terms of accessibility and cost, the 45 ACP beats out the 38 Super. As a more common bullet, the prices for a 45 ACP are typically lower, and they are easier to find in bulk. The 38 Super, while less readily available, offers unique characteristics that justify its cost for many shooters.

Which is the Better Choice?

Comparing the 38 Super and the 45 ACP isn’t an easy task, as both have their unique benefits. Simply put, the right cartridge for you depends on your needs, cost considerations, and which gun you plan to use. Both have a storied history and continue to be popular choices, demonstrating their longevity and dependability in the world of shooting.

38 Super vs 45 ACP: The Verdict

Making an informed choice between the .38 Super and .45 ACP is no small task. Both calibers have proved their mettle in a wide range of applications, from target shooting to self-defense. There is a reason there are so many different caliber options out ther – no single caliber can claim the title of being the “best” round for every shooter or every scenario.

Understanding the factors like bullet weight, performance, pressure, and your specific application for the cartridge can narrow down your choices. Some may prefer the higher velocity and lesser recoil of the .38 Super, while others may gravitate towards the greater stopping power and availability of the .45 ACP.

How Berry’s Bullets Can Help

At Berry’s Bullets, we don’t believe in a ‘one size fits all’ philosophy. We understand that each shooter has different needs, preferences, and challenges. That’s why we offer a range of exceptional quality bullets for both .38 Super and .45 ACP, each crafted meticulously to ensure superior performance.

Take your time to explore our extensive collection and know that whether you choose the .38 Super or .45 ACP, Berry’s is here to provide the highest quality bullets for your shooting needs. We don’t just sell bullets – we’re committed to supporting our customers in their shooting journey, one shot at a time.