Buffalo Bore Ammunition 38 Special +P 158 Grain Lead Semi-Wadcutter Hollow Point Gas Check 20RD

Buffalo Bore Ammunition 38 Special +P 158 grain lead semi-wadcutter hollow point rounds deliver the stopping power serious handgun users demand from a revolver cartridge. This is purpose-built ammunition for defensive carry, sport shooting, and hunting applications where you need reliable expansion and deep penetration. Each box contains 20 rounds loaded to +P pressure specifications, pushing the performance envelope of the .38 Special platform without crossing into 357 Magnum territory.

The 158-grain soft-cast lead bullet with semi-wadcutter profile and hollow point cavity is engineered for controlled expansion on impact. Gas check construction helps maintain velocity and reduces fouling in the barrel, keeping your revolver cleaner during extended shooting sessions. Buffalo Bore's reputation in the ammunition community rests on consistent quality and no-nonsense ballistics—this load exemplifies that approach. It's heavy enough to retain energy downrange and designed to perform reliably across a range of .38 Special +P–rated revolvers.

If you carry a snubnose or service-size revolver chambered for .38 Special +P, or you're looking for serious practice and duty rounds that don't sacrifice performance for comfort, this ammunition deserves a place in your shooting rotation. The semi-wadcutter profile also makes these rounds suitable for paper-punching at the range, though their real home is in a defensive or hunting context where that hollow point matters.

Key Features

• 158-grain soft-cast lead bullet designed for controlled expansion
• Semi-wadcutter hollow point geometry for reliable performance
• Gas check construction reduces barrel fouling and maintains velocity
• Loaded to +P pressure specifications for increased stopping power
• 20 rounds per box for manageable carry quantities

Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this ammunition work in my .38 Special revolver?

Yes—provided your revolver is rated for .38 Special +P ammunition. The +P designation means this is loaded to higher pressure than standard .38 Special, so confirm your firearm's manual or markings before shooting. Most service-size revolvers can handle +P rounds, but always verify first.

What's the difference between the semi-wadcutter and a standard hollow point?

The semi-wadcutter profile has a flat or slightly rounded nose with sharp shoulders, which cuts clean holes in paper targets and offers reliable expansion on soft targets. The hollow point cavity works in concert with that geometry for controlled, predictable performance.

Is this ammunition suitable for carry and defense, or just target practice?

Buffalo Bore designed this load with defensive and hunting applications in mind. The 158-grain soft-cast bullet and hollow point construction are intended for duty and carry use. That said, the ammunition's characteristics also make it acceptable for range practice.

What does the gas check do?

The gas check is a small copper cup pressed into the base of the soft-cast lead bullet. It protects the bullet from hot powder gases during firing, which reduces leading (deposit buildup) in your barrel and helps maintain consistent velocity.