.38-55 Win. Load Data

The term "caliber 38-55" refers to a type of ammunition originally developed in the late 19th century for use in lever-action rifles. Officially known as the .38-55 Winchester, this cartridge was first introduced by the Ballard Rifle & Cartridge Company in 1884. It gained popularity when Winchester and Marlin chambered their rifles to accommodate it, and it became a versatile choice for both hunting and target shooting.

The .38-55 cartridge is named for its specifications: a bullet diameter of .38 inches and a case length of 2.08 inches, holding approximately 55 grains of black powder. It was designed during an era when black powder was the standard propellant, though modern variants using smokeless powder are now common. The cartridge typically fires a bullet weighing between 255 and 300 grains, delivering moderate velocity and relatively mild recoil, making it suitable for a variety of shooting applications.

In terms of hunting, the .38-55 is favored for its effectiveness on medium-sized game, such as deer and black bear, at close to moderate ranges (typically within 150 yards). Its heavier bullet and moderate velocity provide good penetration and stopping power, making it a reliable choice for hunters who prefer traditional lever-action rifles. The cartridge’s accuracy has also made it popular in cowboy action shooting and metallic silhouette competitions, where precision at various ranges is important.

While it is not as widely used as some modern high-velocity rounds, the .38-55 maintains a niche following among shooters who appreciate its historical significance and versatility. Modern ammunition manufacturers continue to produce .38-55 cartridges, often loading them with updated powders and bullets to improve performance while retaining the classic characteristics that made it popular over a century ago.

Overall, the .38-55 caliber stands as a testament to enduring design, balancing manageable recoil, accuracy, and stopping power for a variety of shooting needs.