The .38-55: A Historical Perspective on Its Influence
The .38-55 Winchester holds a special place in the world of ballistics, owing to its historical relevance and wide usage across numerous firearms. This cartridge made its debut in the late 19th century and quickly became a staple among sportsmen and hunters, continuing to hold its own well into the modern era.
The .38-55 cartridge was introduced around 1884 by the Ballard Rifle Company. It gained significant recognition after Winchester Repeating Arms Company adopted it for their Model 1894 lever-action rifle. The ".38-55" nomenclature reflected its caliber (.38) and black powder charge (55 grains), a common naming practice for cartridges of that era.
This cartridge was designed primarily for black powder, delivering a 255-grain bullet at approximately 1,320 feet per second. This configuration made it a favorite among deer hunters, thanks to its relatively mild recoil and effective range, combined with impressive knock-down power.
Firearms Chambered in .38-55
The cartridge was broadly accepted due to its compatibility with several firearms. Its most notable association was with the Winchester Model 1894 lever-action rifle, a key reason behind the cartridge's popularity.
But the Winchester wasn't the only gun to use this versatile cartridge. Other firearm manufacturers, including Marlin, Ballard, and Stevens, also chambered rifles in .38-55. The Marlin Model 1893 was a notable example -- an elegant lever-action that capitalized on the cartridge's excellent balance of power and usability. The Stevens Model 44-1/2, a favorite among Schuetzen shooters, was prized for its exceptional accuracy in competition. Winchester's own 1885 High Wall and Low Wall single-shot rifles were also highly regarded for their precision.
Today, companies like Henry Repeating Arms and Winchester have reintroduced rifles chambered in .38-55. Starline Brass, Buffalo Bore, and Winchester all produce high-quality .38-55 ammunition and components, making it easier than ever to shoot this classic caliber.
The Rise of Smokeless and a Period of Decline
During the advent of smokeless powder in the late 19th and early 20th century, the cartridge experienced a period of decline. Smokeless powder's superior performance led many to move to newer cartridges. Yet the .38-55 managed to maintain a dedicated following among hunters and shooters, owing to its inherent qualities.
With modern smokeless powder loads, the .38-55 can push a 255-260 grain bullet to 1,500-1,700 fps, significantly improving downrange energy and extending its effective hunting range beyond 200 yards. For careful handloaders working with strong modern rifles, velocities approaching 1,800 fps are achievable with 250-grain bullets, though this requires proper load development and attention to pressure limits.
Why They Call It "Comfortable"
When compared to the .45-70 Government, the .38-55 has noticeably less recoil and is gentler on the shoulder while remaining an extremely effective hunting round for medium-sized game. For this reason, many refer to the cartridge as "comfortable." That's exactly what it is -- a round that gets the job done on deer, hogs, and black bear without beating you up all day at the range.
The .38-55 is also a favorite among cast bullet shooters. Reloaders appreciate its ability to deliver excellent groups with heavy lead bullets, often sub-MOA accuracy at 100 yards when properly tuned.
The Revival
In recent years, the .38-55 has experienced something of a revival. With the advent of Cowboy Action Shooting and other historical firearms competitions, along with a resurgence in interest for vintage guns, the .38-55 has once again become a cartridge of interest. A new generation of shooters appreciates the cartridge's historical significance and practical advantages.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Bullet Diameter | .377 - .379 in (SAAMI: .3775 in) |
| Case Length | 2.085 in |
| Overall Length | 2.51 in |
| Typical Bullet Weights | 220 - 300 gr |
| Factory Load Velocity | 1,250 - 1,700 fps |
| Energy Range | 1,000 - 1,500 ft-lbs |
| Max Pressure (SAAMI) | 30,000 CUP |
The history of the .38-55 Winchester is a testament to the enduring appeal of well-designed cartridges. Despite the advancements in firearm technologies, this over-a-century-old cartridge continues to maintain its relevance. It remains in production to this day, serving as an enduring link between the bygone era of black powder and the contemporary world of firearms.
References
Barnes, Frank C. Cartridges of the World, 16th Edition. Gun Digest Media, 2019.
Madis, George. The Winchester Book. Art and Reference House, 1985.
Nonte, George C. Modern Handloading. Winchester Press, 1978.
SAAMI (Sporting Arms and Ammunition Manufacturers' Institute) Pressure Standards.
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