Last reviewed: 2026-04-18 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, NRA-certified firearms instructor.
Underwood’s 38 Special 158 grain semi-wadcutter bridges the gap between target wadcutters and jacketed defensive rounds — soft enough to expand on impact, hard enough to avoid leading your cylinder and forcing cone. The 158-grain profile sits at the upper end of the caliber’s weight range, delivering consistent penetration through intermediate barriers while maintaining controllable recoil in J-frame and K-frame revolvers. Black Cherry polymer coating protects the lead projectile from gas cutting and bore contact, eliminating the fouling that sidelines traditional cast bullets after fifty rounds. At 854 fps from a 4-inch barrel, this load stays subsonic, suppressor-safe, and chambered for any 38 Special or 357 Magnum revolver in current production.
The Numbers
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 38 Special |
| Bullet weight | 158 grains |
| Bullet type | Semi-Wadcutter, Black Cherry polymer-coated lead |
| Muzzle velocity | 854 fps |
| Muzzle energy | 256 ft-lbs |
| Rounds/box | 20 |
| Case | Nickel-plated brass |
| Primer | Boxer |
| Corrosive | No |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| Suppressor-safe | Yes (subsonic) |
| Intended use | Self-defense |
| Manufacturer | Underwood Ammo |
| Country of origin | United States of America |
The semi-wadcutter profile cuts clean holes in paper and tissue, making it easier to score hits during live-fire qualification and improving wound channel visibility in defensive encounters. Nickel-plated cases resist tarnish in leather holsters and humid climates, feeding reliably in both speed-loaders and moon clips. Flash-suppressed powder preserves night vision if you fire in low light. Browse our full selection of 38 Special Wadcutter Ammo for additional target and defensive loads.
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.
- Follow the four rules of firearm safety at all times — treat every gun as loaded, never point at anything you don’t intend to destroy, finger off trigger until ready to fire, know your target and what lies beyond.
- This ammunition contains lead. Use adequate ventilation when shooting indoors. Wash hands after handling. California Prop 65 warning applies.
- Verify current federal, state, and local laws before purchasing or possessing ammunition — some jurisdictions restrict online sales or require permits.
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