.38 Special for Sale

Shop .38 Special Guns, Revolvers, and Ammo

The .38 Special is one of the most recognized cartridges in American firearms history. Known for manageable recoil, reliable performance, and broad availability, it remains popular with target shooters, collectors, concealed-carry buyers, and anyone shopping for a classic revolver cartridge.

On GunBroker, shoppers can browse a wide range of .38 Special firearms and ammunition, including 38 Special revolvers, rifles chambered for .38 Special, collectible models, and 38 Special ammo from sellers across the country.

Popular .38 Special Revolvers

For many buyers, the .38 Special is closely associated with revolvers. These firearms are valued for their simple operation, dependable design, and long-standing role in personal defense, target shooting, and collecting. GunBroker offers listings for modern revolvers, vintage wheel guns, and hard-to-find collector pieces.

Popular brands include Smith & Wesson, Taurus, and Colt. Buyers can compare barrel lengths, frame sizes, finishes, conditions, and seller listings to find the right revolver.

Concealed Carry and Defensive .38 Special Options

The .38 Special remains a common choice for personal defense, especially in compact revolvers. Many buyers look for short-barreled carry guns that are easy to conceal, simple to operate, and comfortable enough for regular practice.

Browse snub nose 38 Special revolvers for compact carry options, or compare popular defensive models such as the Ruger LCR and Charter Arms Undercover. These models are frequently sought by shoppers looking for lightweight, practical revolvers.

.38 Special Ammo and Collector Firearms

The .38 Special ammunition market includes target loads, range ammunition, defensive hollow points, wadcutters, and other options for different shooting needs. Some firearms are also rated for 38 Special +P ammo, which is loaded to higher pressure for increased velocity and energy. Always confirm your firearm is rated for +P ammunition before use.

Collectors also continue to seek classic .38 Special firearms, including vintage Smith & Wesson revolvers, Colt revolvers, and the iconic Colt Detective Special. From modern defensive revolvers to collectible firearms and ammunition, GunBroker helps buyers compare listings, bid on auctions, or buy with Immediate Checkout.

.38 Special FAQs

What is the .38 Special used for?

The .38 Special is commonly used for target shooting, recreational shooting, personal defense, concealed carry, and collecting. It is especially popular in revolvers because of its manageable recoil and long history of reliable performance.

Is .38 Special good for self-defense?

Many shooters use .38 Special for personal defense, especially in compact revolvers. Defensive ammunition selection, firearm condition, training, and shot placement all matter when choosing a self-defense setup.

Can a .357 Magnum firearm shoot .38 Special ammo?

Many .357 Magnum firearms can also fire .38 Special ammunition, but the reverse is not true. Always check the firearm manufacturer’s specifications before using any cartridge.

What is the difference between .38 Special and .38 Special +P?

.38 Special +P ammunition is loaded to higher pressure than standard .38 Special ammunition. It can offer increased velocity and energy, but it should only be used in firearms rated for +P loads.

What are some popular .38 Special revolvers?

Popular options include Smith & Wesson revolvers, Taurus revolvers, Colt revolvers, the Ruger LCR, Charter Arms Undercover models, snub nose carry revolvers, and collectible models like the Colt Detective Special.

New to GunBroker? Learn more in our Buying Overview, GunBroker Articles, and Gun Review Videos.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult your local laws and regulations before purchasing firearms, ammunition, or firearm parts.