Decoding the W-W Super 38 Special: A Deep Dive into a Classic Cartridge
The ".38 Special" moniker conjures images of classic revolvers, old Hollywood films, and a potent round capable of self-defense and hunting small game. Within the .38 Special family lies a fascinating variant: the W-W Super .38 Special. This article will delve into the history, characteristics, and legacy of this often-overlooked cartridge.
Understanding the W-W Designation
Before examining the specifics, let's clarify the "W-W" prefix. This designation refers to the Western Cartridge Company, a significant ammunition manufacturer that later became part of Olin Corporation (Winchester). Therefore, "W-W Super .38 Special" signifies ammunition produced by Western Cartridge Company, designed to exceed the standard .38 Special performance.
What Makes the W-W Super .38 Special Unique?
The key difference lies in the powder charge. While a standard .38 Special utilizes a specific powder load for a particular bullet weight, the W-W Super .38 Special employed a higher-velocity load, resulting in increased muzzle energy and a flatter trajectory. This translated to:
- Increased Muzzle Velocity: Compared to standard .38 Special loads, the W-W Super .38 Special boasted significantly higher muzzle velocity, leading to a greater effective range.
- Enhanced Stopping Power: The increased velocity and energy delivered a more substantial impact on target, improving its stopping power, particularly crucial for self-defense scenarios.
- Flatter Trajectory: The higher velocity resulted in a flatter trajectory, making it easier to accurately hit targets at longer distances.
Historical Context and Usage
The W-W Super .38 Special emerged during a period when ammunition manufacturers were continually striving to improve cartridge performance. It likely saw use in both law enforcement and civilian contexts. While not as widely adopted as the standard .38 Special, its increased power made it a viable option for those seeking enhanced stopping power within the .38 Special platform. This increased power should, however, be coupled with awareness of increased recoil.
Legacy and Availability
Finding W-W Super .38 Special ammunition today is exceedingly difficult, as it's largely discontinued. Collectors and enthusiasts value original boxes of this ammunition due to its historical significance. The cartridge serves as a testament to the continuous evolution of firearms and ammunition technology, showcasing the ongoing quest for improved performance and effectiveness.
Comparing to Modern .38 Special +P
It's crucial to differentiate the W-W Super .38 Special from modern +P .38 Special loads. While both offer increased velocity and energy, the specific characteristics and manufacturing processes differ. Modern +P ammunition is subject to stricter standards and testing protocols than the older W-W Super .38 Special.
Conclusion: A Piece of Ammunition History
The W-W Super .38 Special represents a fascinating chapter in the history of handgun ammunition. Although largely unavailable today, understanding its unique characteristics offers insight into the evolution of cartridge design and the continuous pursuit of improved performance within established calibers. For collectors and firearms enthusiasts, the W-W Super .38 Special remains a sought-after piece of ammunition history.
