Reader question, asked March 2026
Short answer: Only if it’s chambered for .38 Special or .357 Magnum. Read the barrel. “.38” covers several different cartridges.
The details
- Old “.38” revolvers may be chambered in .38 S&W or .38 Long Colt, which are different cartridges from .38 Special.
- A .38 Special won’t fit in a .38 S&W cylinder because the case is longer. Never force a round in.
- Any .357 Magnum revolver can safely shoot .38 Special.
- If the barrel isn’t marked, have a gunsmith check it before you shoot it.
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