Last reviewed: 2026-04-18 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, NRA-certified firearms instructor.
For wheelgun shooters chasing tight groups without magnum recoil, the PPU 38 Special 158 grain semi-wadcutter hollow point marries classic target geometry to controlled expansion potential. This is a 38 Special 158 grain SWHP — a load engineered for the bullseye crowd and revolvers chambered in .38 Special or .357 Magnum. Prvi Partizan machines the semi-wadcutter profile from soft lead, seats a shallow hollow point cavity, and crimps each round into reloadable brass. Muzzle velocity clocks 902 fps from a four-inch barrel, generating 282 foot-pounds of energy — mild by centerfire standards, sharp enough to punch clean scoring rings in paper targets at 25 yards.
Performance at a Glance
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 38 Special |
| Bullet weight | 158 grains |
| Bullet type | Lead Hollow Point (SWHP) |
| Muzzle velocity | 902 fps |
| Muzzle energy | 282 ft-lbs |
| Rounds per box | 50 |
| Case | Brass |
| Primer | Boxer |
| Corrosive | No |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| Intended use | Range & Target |
| Manufacturer | PPU (Prvi Partizan) |
The semi-wadcutter shoulder shears a clean scoring ring at every impact — precision shooters running timed strings appreciate the unambiguous boundary between scoring zones. The shallow hollow point cavity offers modest expansion if you transition the load to pest control or plinking outdoors, though this bullet was cut for paper first. Boxer primers allow brass recovery and reloading; Prvi Partizan cases typically survive five to seven reload cycles before primer pockets loosen. Fifty rounds ship in a single box, DOT-regulated for ground transport. Review our 38 Special wadcutter ammo collection for parallel loads at different grain weights and velocities.
Safe Handling & Compliance
Federal law requires purchasers to be at least 18 years old for rifle and shotgun ammunition, and at least 21 for handgun ammunition. Ammunition cannot be shipped to certain states, counties, and cities — review our ammunition shipping restrictions before ordering. Store ammunition in a cool, dry location away from heat sources and out of reach of unauthorized users.
- Practice the four rules of firearm safety at all times — treat every firearm as if it is loaded, never point at anything you are not willing to destroy, finger off trigger until sights are on target, identify your target and what lies beyond.
- Verify current state and local ammunition laws before ordering — some jurisdictions restrict hollow point ammunition or impose magazine capacity limits that affect bulk purchases.
- This ammunition contains lead. Wash hands thoroughly after handling, avoid breathing dust at indoor ranges, and store away from children and pets. California Prop 65 warning applies.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.