Buffalo Bore Ammunition has carved a niche for itself in the world of firearms, particularly for those seeking high-performance ammunition. This article will delve into their .38 Special offerings, examining what makes them unique, and who might benefit from choosing Buffalo Bore over other brands. We'll cover everything from their different loadings to their intended applications and address common questions surrounding their potency and recoil.
Understanding Buffalo Bore's Philosophy
Buffalo Bore is known for its commitment to pushing the boundaries of what's possible with handgun ammunition. Unlike many manufacturers who focus on standard-pressure loads, Buffalo Bore prioritizes maximum performance, often utilizing heavier bullets and higher pressures to achieve exceptional stopping power. This philosophy resonates with serious shooters, law enforcement professionals, and those who require reliable self-defense ammunition.
Buffalo Bore .38 Special Loadings: A Detailed Look
Buffalo Bore's .38 Special line isn't a one-size-fits-all approach. They offer a variety of loadings designed for different purposes, each with its unique characteristics:
Hard-Cast Lead:
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Ideal For: Practice and hunting smaller game. Hard-cast lead bullets are durable and provide excellent penetration.
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Considerations: Lead bullets are softer than jacketed bullets and may deform more upon impact.
Jacketed Hollow Point (JHP):
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Ideal For: Self-defense and personal protection. JHP bullets expand upon impact, creating larger wound channels and maximizing stopping power. Buffalo Bore's JHP rounds are meticulously designed for consistent expansion.
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Considerations: Performance can be affected by factors like barrier penetration (e.g., car doors, drywall).
+P and +P+ Loadings:
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Ideal For: Situations demanding maximum stopping power. These are high-pressure rounds that generate significantly more energy than standard .38 Special ammunition. Buffalo Bore is known for its reliable +P and +P+ loads.
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Considerations: Increased recoil and potential wear and tear on your firearm are factors to consider. Always verify your firearm's suitability for +P and +P+ ammunition before use.
Is Buffalo Bore .38 Special Right for You?
Choosing the right ammunition depends on your needs and intended use. Buffalo Bore's .38 Special rounds are not for everyone. Their high-performance loads come with increased recoil, which may be uncomfortable for some shooters, especially those with less experience. Furthermore, the higher pressures involved require careful consideration of your firearm's capabilities. Always consult your firearm's owner's manual to ensure compatibility.
Who might benefit from Buffalo Bore .38 Special?
- Law enforcement officers: Requiring maximum stopping power in critical situations.
- Experienced shooters: Comfortable handling higher recoil.
- Hunters: Seeking reliable ammunition for taking small game.
- Individuals prioritizing self-defense: Valuing maximum stopping power in a personal protection round.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is Buffalo Bore .38 Special over-penetrating?
A: The potential for over-penetration depends on the specific bullet type and the barrier encountered. While Buffalo Bore prioritizes penetration, their JHP loadings are designed to expand and limit over-penetration in many scenarios.
Q: Will Buffalo Bore .38 Special damage my gun?
A: As long as you use loads that are compatible with your firearm's specifications (as stated in the owner's manual), you should not experience damage. Using +P or +P+ ammunition in a firearm not rated for it can cause damage.
Q: What is the recoil like?
A: The recoil is significantly higher than standard-pressure .38 Special ammunition, especially with +P and +P+ loadings. This is due to the higher velocity and bullet weight.
Conclusion
Buffalo Bore's .38 Special ammunition represents a commitment to high performance and stopping power. While not ideal for every shooter or application, its robust loadings and rigorous quality control make it a popular choice for those who need reliable, potent ammunition. Remember always to consult your firearm's owner's manual and choose the appropriate loading for your specific needs and experience level. Safety should always be the top priority when handling firearms and ammunition.
