Paul, It may be a six-year-old video but the information is timeless. Once again you have proven that you are "a professional", informative, and quite entertaining as well.
If I recall correctly Paul served both in the marines and the army. He also has several shooting championships under his belt. Usually when a man brags about being smart and rich he is neither. Same applies to tactitards.
There are a lot of "experts" on the web, but it's extremely refreshing to see someone who backs up what they say with real shooting and real testing. Enjoying your videos and learning a lot. Thanks Paul.
Paul Harrell Hey paul, I was wondering if maybe you could shed some light for us on the claim that 357 magnum is not reliable in smaller snub nose revolvers and is likely to cause malfunctions. Is there any truth to that claim?? Sorry for responding on an old video, anyways thanks for the great content and all the work and effort you put.
I just found Paul's videos. I have to say he is one of the most informative gun channels. He doesn't BS. He shows you physical results and let's you decide. Great content.
Great demonstration. I've never heard anyone claim that .38 in a snubbie is just as powerful as .357, so yeah they are dead wrong about that. For those who didn't watch all the way through, he makes a great point near the end - power differentials are one thing, hitting your target is another. Some people practice with .357 and are quite proficient with it...enough to even make that their carry caliber. But the reduced recoil of the .38, for many other people, will make it easier to hit your target...particularly on follow up shots under duress.
Exactly. Not only less recoil with 38Spl but also FAR LESS hand whip, muzzle blast, and flash. In a dark alleyway, parking lot, or backyard after the sun's gone down ALL those factors make the 38Spl the better fighting choice, especially if there is more than one hostile. No doubt about it, the 357Mag is way more powerful shot-for-shot than the 38Spl, but at what cost? The 357Mag was developed back in the day kinda as a "proof of concept" thing to show that it could be done. For a handgun hunter it's definitely the better choice. The 38Spl was designed from the ground up to put dicks in the dirt effectively and efficiently. It does what's needed, and nothing more. That makes it easier to shoot accurately and quickly while maintaining your hearing and sight.
***** I do exactly what you do, except with an over and under. The difference is that there have been in Spain several home owners who ended up poor in jail for shooting home invaders armed with knives. Practically no judge considers justified shooting anyone inside your home, maybe (I just guess) if he shoots you in advance. What about a "good agreement" of many thousands of euros as compensation and a pair of years in prison? The tittle says: bla bla bla two years for killing a thief (who had a knife) www.elmundo.es/cataluna/2015/09/10/55f1383dca4741aa458b4574.html
Thank you for your honesty my friend. It's rare for people that love their country to be able to be honest about it's flaws. I love America and years ago signed on to fight to the death to defend it but I am not blind to the problems we have to deal with. The first step to making a change is to recognize the problem or, at least that's what all those damned meetings taught me.
AgonyShorts never will we my friend that is a promise.....you guys haven't given yours up either just let legislation make them stupid hard to obtain....freedom depends on being able to defend your family or die trying! !
I've watched all your videos and this one is among the best because you explained and demonstrated the current state of the art in ammunition. In the 70's when I was LEO I learned what you stated about short barreled 357Mag losing so much speed and becoming almost equivalent to 38spl...never updated myself. Thanks for the updated knowledge re: +P ammo, AND for pointing out the recoil and gun weight factors that didn't affect me then but definitely affects me now.
I'm late to watching this video, but once again I am SO impressed with your presentation. I would be hard-pressed to point to a more professional, straightforward educational firearms channel than yours. Well done, sir.
Great video. Thanks The other thing to remember is that energy from a bullet is not linear. It is exponential. a 125 grain bullet at 840 ft/sec has 196 ft.-lbs of energy. The same bullet at 1250 ft/sec has 434 ft.-lbs of energy. That is 2.2 times as much energy in the .357 with a bullet velocity increase of 50% in over the 38 +P.
@@georgiishmakov9588 yes it is exponential. Exponential means it varies by the exponent of the number. In this case the exponent is 2. e to the x is also exponential where the base is e and the exponent is x. e is just a constant. e to the 2nd power equals x to 2nd power if x=e.
I love the the objectivity of Paul’s videos as well as the extra “clarifications” he makes here and there. The “boring parts” as he coins it are the most intriguing.
Paul - I watch your videos again and again. So informative and well done. Your credibility is undeniable. I sincerely appreciate the effort and thought you put in to these videos, they inform all my buying decisions. I’ve turned my brother on to your vids and he loves them as well.
I was at the range last night (only my 3rd time--still a noob) and there's a guy in the next lane shooting whatever and I'm shooting and you know, casually paying attention to my surroundings. And so after the guys fires 18 rounds or so he fires something different, like *really* different. Louder. Deeper. Brighter flash. And I could feel the percussion of the shock wave on my body. So he lets a half dozen of these things go, then switches back to the other kind. And after he pulls his target in I poked my head around and said, "Excuse me, sir, what were you firing earlier?" He grinned and said, "357's." I was like, "Oh...! Wow!" He was testing out his new GP 100 (blue--beautiful gun). Really nice guy. Anyway, so yeah, 357 vs 38. Totally different animal.
Mizz Maddie I was at the range and this guy with a auto .45 blasting away at a target at 25 yards. He was decked out, looked like that LT in the old Hill Street Blues TV show. I walked up to the line in jeans and a station tee shirt with my Ruger .357 6” wheel gun. 6 shots, done, range clear. We both walked up to our 25 yard targets. Mr. Slick never hit the paper at all. My Ruger had a tight group in the center. Guys at the range were smirking as Mr. Rambo collected his stuff and left the range. I won’t go .38 but I will look to buy a snub nose .357 for conceal carry. It’s not the capacity but the accuracy that counts IMHO. I just like the Knock down power of .357 vs .38 That is how I roll
I have a taurus 605 nothing super fancy but all black nice over 2 inch snub I can shoot 38's all day I try to do that with 357. And well I left with the imprint of the handgrip in my palm 😂 out of a snub a 357 is basically someone slapping your hand as hard as they can and I want to buy more I love my 357
I love my gp100. It's the only .357 I've ever owned. Shooting .38 special out of it is smooth as butter. Transitioning from .357 to .38 in that gun makes the .38 feel like a .22 LR. It's amazing.
@@NoxianSoulHarvester if you ever can, try a ruger gp100. Mine has a 4in barrel and it is fantastic. You will love it. You can get that in a snub nose too.
Another great video, Paul. I've watched many of your videos and always learn a lot from each. You explain things and back them up with examples and personal practice. Thanks.
Love the amount of detail on these videos. The professional level quality is refreshing. By contrast, there are too many amateur CZcamsrs out there making firearms videos. Thanks Paul.
Excellent !!! This video is almost 2yrs old & is quite informative for any year. As always The things you show & the way you explain things covers all points. I couldn't get a better teacher !!!!!!!! Thank-you, Once again, liked & still subscribed !
Your coverage of 38spec+P VS 357 was well put together and explained. You have sound arguments and backed it up with real world results from your side by side tests. Also your insight on the fact that just because the .357 is way more powerful than the 38+p does not mean it's the best fit for all situations and people. Great show !
Great video Paul. FWIW I had to use my issued .38 three times during my 30 year career and it dropped the bad guy every time. I have no doubt the .357 is a lot more powerful but when carrying a light revolver in retirement it’s too hard to control follow up shots.
You are a great teacher sir... I learned so much from your vids.. I just started reloading and I got rid of my .38 J frame and got a SP101. I reload .357 and I had to update my carry revolver. A 357 is so versatile.. Keep the vids on coming. Love your work and especially the "you decide" comment!
That particular test (which appeared fair) showed that the in the shorter barrel the 357 had 74.46 percent of the kinetic energy it had with the longer barrel, whereas in the shorter barrel the 38+P had 77.71 percent of the kinetic energy it had with the longer barrel. So you're right ... the "percentage loss" of bullet energy due to a shorter barrel is practically the same for both the 357 and the 38+P. Consequently, even in a shorter barrel revolver the 357 is still a lot more powerful than the 38+P. Good video!
People! Now that the FACTS are in and there is no question whatsoever that.357 magnum is more (by a lot) powerful than the.38 special, whatsoever you do please do not underestimate the power of the.38 special! This is a real cartridge that has been around for a long time and it is indeed deadly as hell in a close quarters battle situation. I like the.38 special for the simple reason that the power level is more manageable for me in a Ruger SP101 revolver. None of the points I’m making about this cartridge makes it better or worse than each other as they are NOT THE SAME!! Thank You Mr. Harrell!
I throughly enjoyed several of these videos. I'm not new to firearms, but I truly enjoy the presentation and facts you insert in each segment, I'll be watching more, your way of educating is low key, but on point. Thank you for taking the time. I'm looking forward to watching the rest.
You remind me of one of my professors in college. You are very good at explaining things. I don't know anything about you or your profession, but I must say, you are very intelligent! Love your videos!! As always, thumbs up.
Very informative tests. I have shot both cartridges in snubbies and the heavy recoil and blast from the .357 convinced me that the plus P .38 is a more controllables/shootable option. It's a lot easier and quicker to get a second shot on target with the .38 Special.
Unargueably your firearm videos are the finest I have watched so far. You communicate whats needed to be said. In the clean, clear, intellectual, streight forward manner. The way it should, even when you stop to spend the remaining 5-10 minutes recaping and summing up everything that was said and done. I find myself locked in becaous Im still being fed valuable infermation. I cannot say that about all the other firearm videos.
When I want to know something about calibers, cartridges etc. there is only one channel that I prefer that gives me accurate information. Thanks Mr Paul Harrel for your content. Much loved channel👌🏻
I finally gave in and subbed! After watching 2 or 3 of your videos per day for the past week or so, I'm finding that you get to the point, make good sense, add a little humor (but not too much), and thoroughly explain the topic at hand. Keep them coming!
Gary Decker after your ranting and raving I decided to give him a chance... now I'm subscribed just great videos. (also I'm super glad he got a new camera)
Too bad Gary, Paul has been putting out great information with proof that what he says he proves for about 8 years . Go back and check out some of his older videos. You will find loads of factual knowledge. Enjoy.
I have been carrying a SP 101 .357 with 2.25" barrel since the early '90s! I once shot a 250 lb feral hog at 30 some yards with a 125 gr hollow point. Did the job!
Excellent video Paul. You really have a talent for making informative vids with subtle humor that both entertain and educate. Don't change a thing and keep them coming... when you have time of course.
Thanks for an analysis based on reason and data. I've never thought much about whether the .357 magnum was the same as the .38 special in a short-barrelled revolver. My own preference is that I just like having at least four inches of barrel when I shoot a .357 magnum.
The final comment he made has a lot of truth. The size and weight of a .38 and a .357 means you might not carry the larger gun for concealment reasons. I carried a snub nose, S&W model 60, .38 spl and also a S&W Model 19, .357, in 2 inch. I did not find the recoil a problem. The larger frame on the 357 absorbed more recoil then the .38 lighter frame. BUT Working in Florida with shorts and T. Shirts made the larger gun almost non concealable. In real combat I shot under an automobile hit the person in the ankle with a snub nose. The larger gun would have made no deference as an ankle shot was all that was available. Years later my partner and I shot a robber, after he had fired at us. We both had .357 Mod. 19 S&W. He was hit in the liver but we don't know if it was my shot or my partners shot. The robber was able to run from the scene, break into a home, kidnap the occupants, steal a car and lead us in a chase for over an hour before he passed out. He died years later in prison.
Good info. Shooting someone in the ankle is fine if that's the only shot you have. What's that movie where the guy says, "I shot him in the back because his back was to me." Your liver shot makes a very good example of the notion that power is fine but shot placement is final.
It was from El Diablo. An HBO movie from 1990 with Anthony Edwards (Goose in Top Gun) and Lou Gossett Jr. Edwards asked Gossett why he shot him in the back and he replied, "His back was to me".
I have the 11.4 oz 360 PD .357 Magnum S&W that weighs 13.7 oz. loaded. It has a 1.875 inch barrel. The KAHR CM9 is 14 oz UNLOADED with a three inch barrel.
As a retired LEO I find it hard to believe the investigation that followed didn't take both guns to compare the rifling and recovered bullet to determine whose weapon fired the hit shot.... that's kind of important to include in the report. I also carried a .357 back in the late 70's before we changed to S/A Berettas.
Another great video demonstration from Paul Harrell! Paul; You are the greatest expert and demonstrator. I have gotten many of my friends hooked on your videoes. Most of them saying, "I REALY LIKE THIS GUY." Keep up the good work! Retired sniper U.S. Army. Former gunsmith, FFL Dealer.
One thing you left out for noobs is if they get the .357 (like the Ruger SP101) they can also shoot .38 and .38 + P with it thus making it a much more vesatile gun than the 38 only. Good down to earth demonstration .....
Currently they only have one handgun available in SP101 for .38+P (the rest being .357 in that caliber). Otherwise almost the entire selection of LCR series are .38+P.
Yeah, if you want, or need, that versatility then that's a good point. If you know you will only be shooting .38 spl. though you'd be better off with a revolver chambered for .38 spl. than a .357 mag.. EDIT: I just want to update my post here by saying that I am no longer of the opinion that the cylinder gap is really significant in a revolver, or at least enough to consider it a factor in choosing between a .357 mag. and a .38 Spl. only revolver. I still get replies on this old post here from years ago, so I thought I'd just update this. Still, I feel there is a place for .38 Spl. revolvers and you may want one and know that you won't ever be shooting .357 magnum in it, but personally I would prefer to have that flexibility.
I’m actually purchasing my first hand gun and it’s a Taurus 605. These videos are crucial to me. Learning about snubnose revolvers and the different types of ammo is great when it’s this well formatted. Thanks for the vid. Keep them coming.
Great video. The .38 Special may not be up to the .357, but it's been killing people pretty well for over a century. And for use in a compact revolver, it seems like it's more than sufficient in most instances where it might be called upon.
Man, I'm glad I found your channel! Could you test the theory that rubber bullets fired from a .357 magnum could possibly penetrate and be fatal? Or whatever caliber you prefer
I'm a 'beginner', I very much enjoy watching Paul's videos. I feel confident that I can learn alot and most importantly, He seems knowledgeable and thorough. Many of the questions I have about what I'm learning are answered within the same video. Many questions I've never thought to ask are covered too.🐒
This has got to be the most thorough well presented video presentation I have ever seen on CZcams. THIS is why people learn so much on CZcams. Because of videos like this. EXCELLENT job! You have answered all my questions, and then some! The teacher gives you an A+ !
I know this is an older video and you probably won't read this... But anyway, although when you get to pistols, and short barrels in general, the powder needing time to burn is a considerable part of the differences in velocity with respect to barrel length, The more absolute reason is the distance the pressure acts on the bullet. Even if the powder could detonate fully/instantaneously a longer barrel would always give more velocity until you reach a point where the pressure's force is equal to friction (normally an irrationally long barrel). Love your videos and like how you always explain things to their truest point. This is just an engineers pedantic comment.
An additional factor is that the gas expands at an almost steady, but declining, rate as the volume of the barrel into which it is expanding increases as the bullet travels to the muzzle. This, more than the friction, is the reason that increase in barrel length only increases velocity up to a certain point. Note that the barrel volume increases dramatically with caliber. A friend built an 18" AR for 7.62x39 with a rifle length gas system - and the gas system wouldn't function. A similar barrel/gas system in 5.56 works fine. The answer was the slightly lower pressure of the 7.62x39 coupled with the enormous increase in barrel volume from .223 to .30 meant there just wasn't enough pressure left to do the job of cycling the action. So when you exceed the optimal length for a given caliber the charge literally "runs out of gas" before the bullet hits the muzzle.
I had this argument for the second time with a dealer at my local gun shop. I'm going to have him look up this video. This is almost to a T validating my argument. Thanks for the video
The problem with dealers of any kind is that they have something to sell. Heard in a gun store once: Customer: - "Is a .40 more or less powerful than a .45?" Clerk: - "Oh, much more powerful!" And in another shop back in 1999: "Colt is no longer selling to civilians. Here's a Kimber 1911 for you to look at instead."
I’m just seeing this in 2022. This video is well-researched and VERY well-presented. Very straightforward! The discussion points are expertly-proven. Well-done, Sir.
Paul, thank you for all the video years! I always get a Paul hit when searching and asking questions about guns or ammo here. Dials me right in to a honest demonstrated opinion! Hard to ask for better than that imo. Thanks again
Man, we're all going to miss Paul's content.
Paul, It may be a six-year-old video but the information is timeless. Once again you have proven that you are "a professional", informative, and quite entertaining as well.
His videos are timeless indeed.
Dude's an actual teacher, rather than a Hypemaster. Simple, well organized, relevant comparisons resulting in usable information.
Been enjoying re-watching all your old vids. All great. Thank you
thank god, a normal tone of voice, not a loud douchey "military wannabe" guy, facts and pshysical evidenc, common sense. great video, informative.
Sarcast I second that!
Very informative. Thank you.
Yup and this guy actually trained with the army national guard too
If I recall correctly Paul served both in the marines and the army. He also has several shooting championships under his belt. Usually when a man brags about being smart and rich he is neither. Same applies to tactitards.
@jay zenitran you couldn't have said it better my friend. God bless
There are a lot of "experts" on the web, but it's extremely refreshing to see someone who backs up what they say with real shooting and real testing. Enjoying your videos and learning a lot. Thanks Paul.
Thanks.
I truly respect the 'scientific' approach to testing these. it wasn't all theory, but tangible tests. Thank you for clearing up misconceptions.
Paul Harrell Hey paul, I was wondering if maybe you could shed some light for us on the claim that 357 magnum is not reliable in smaller snub nose revolvers and is likely to cause malfunctions. Is there any truth to that claim?? Sorry for responding on an old video, anyways thanks for the great content and all the work and effort you put.
See Paul's two videos on how to spot a fake expert.
@@Omar-if1cu In what way would a 357 cause a malfunction in a 357 snub nose revolver?
I just found Paul's videos. I have to say he is one of the most informative gun channels. He doesn't BS. He shows you physical results and let's you decide. Great content.
Great demonstration. I've never heard anyone claim that .38 in a snubbie is just as powerful as .357, so yeah they are dead wrong about that.
For those who didn't watch all the way through, he makes a great point near the end - power differentials are one thing, hitting your target is another. Some people practice with .357 and are quite proficient with it...enough to even make that their carry caliber. But the reduced recoil of the .38, for many other people, will make it easier to hit your target...particularly on follow up shots under duress.
Exactly. Not only less recoil with 38Spl but also FAR LESS hand whip, muzzle blast, and flash. In a dark alleyway, parking lot, or backyard after the sun's gone down ALL those factors make the 38Spl the better fighting choice, especially if there is more than one hostile. No doubt about it, the 357Mag is way more powerful shot-for-shot than the 38Spl, but at what cost? The 357Mag was developed back in the day kinda as a "proof of concept" thing to show that it could be done. For a handgun hunter it's definitely the better choice. The 38Spl was designed from the ground up to put dicks in the dirt effectively and efficiently. It does what's needed, and nothing more. That makes it easier to shoot accurately and quickly while maintaining your hearing and sight.
God i hate living in Canada. Never give up your guns my friends across the border...
***** I do exactly what you do, except with an over and under. The difference is that there have been in Spain several home owners who ended up poor in jail for shooting home invaders armed with knives. Practically no judge considers justified shooting anyone inside your home, maybe (I just guess) if he shoots you in advance. What about a "good agreement" of many thousands of euros as compensation and a pair of years in prison? The tittle says: bla bla bla two years for killing a thief (who had a knife) www.elmundo.es/cataluna/2015/09/10/55f1383dca4741aa458b4574.html
All I can say to that is have a sword vs a knife and if no other way shoot the SOB. Like the saying goes better to be judged by 12 than carried by 6.
Thank you for your honesty my friend. It's rare for people that love their country to be able to be honest about it's flaws. I love America and years ago signed on to fight to the death to defend it but I am not blind to the problems we have to deal with. The first step to making a change is to recognize the problem or, at least that's what all those damned meetings taught me.
California has become unlivable too.
AgonyShorts never will we my friend that is a promise.....you guys haven't given yours up either just let legislation make them stupid hard to obtain....freedom depends on being able to defend your family or die trying! !
Great test. I guess the short barreled .357 is the little gun that could.
This is worth a thumbs up.
Great reason to get a snubbie!
I've watched all your videos and this one is among the best because you explained and demonstrated the current state of the art in ammunition. In the 70's when I was LEO I learned what you stated about short barreled 357Mag losing so much speed and becoming almost equivalent to 38spl...never updated myself. Thanks for the updated knowledge re: +P ammo, AND for pointing out the recoil and gun weight factors that didn't affect me then but definitely affects me now.
I'm late to watching this video, but once again I am SO impressed with your presentation. I would be hard-pressed to point to a more professional, straightforward educational firearms channel than yours. Well done, sir.
Great video. Thanks
The other thing to remember is that energy from a bullet is not linear. It is exponential. a 125 grain bullet at 840 ft/sec has 196 ft.-lbs of energy. The same bullet at 1250 ft/sec has 434 ft.-lbs of energy. That is 2.2 times as much energy in the .357 with a bullet velocity increase of 50% in over the 38 +P.
well, not exponential but square, and also it's not the energy that punches it's the momentum, but yes.
It is linear with respect to the mass of the projectile. It increases exponentially with the velocity, specifically with the square of the velocity.
@@georgiishmakov9588 increasing by the square is exponential.
@@jamesjohnson4159 no, it's polynomial. Exponential is e^x.
@@georgiishmakov9588 yes it is exponential. Exponential means it varies by the exponent of the number. In this case the exponent is 2. e to the x is also exponential where the base is e and the exponent is x. e is just a constant. e to the 2nd power equals x to 2nd power if x=e.
Thanks Paul. Your comparisons are logical, informative, & easy to understand.
His rant on "just as much" make me crack up, I love this guy, exactly why I subbed
I love the the objectivity of Paul’s videos as well as the extra “clarifications” he makes here and there. The “boring parts” as he coins it are the most intriguing.
Paul - I watch your videos again and again. So informative and well done. Your credibility is undeniable. I sincerely appreciate the effort and thought you put in to these videos, they inform all my buying decisions. I’ve turned my brother on to your vids and he loves them as well.
That was a very concise, no-nonsense approach!
great video.
Always learning something with Paul in these videos, what a wealth of common sense and knowledge.
Thanks for the content!
I never tire of watching these. I swear, there are like 10 million Paul Harrell videos I have never seen
Love this guy! Common Sense type of reviews and not a "been there done that" mentality. Thanks Paul!
As always, a professional production with quality information for me (the average shooter.) Thanks Paul! Great job as always.
Your videos are very practical and simple. Love them. Thanks for your time Paul!
Paul Harrell is my first go to channel in gun related questions. You're the best Paul. Thank you for everything you do.🤠
This is a very informative video. I've been telling folks this for many years to no avail. Here it is in understandable form. Good information.
I was at the range last night (only my 3rd time--still a noob) and there's a guy in the next lane shooting whatever and I'm shooting and you know, casually paying attention to my surroundings. And so after the guys fires 18 rounds or so he fires something different, like *really* different. Louder. Deeper. Brighter flash. And I could feel the percussion of the shock wave on my body. So he lets a half dozen of these things go, then switches back to the other kind. And after he pulls his target in I poked my head around and said, "Excuse me, sir, what were you firing earlier?" He grinned and said, "357's." I was like, "Oh...! Wow!" He was testing out his new GP 100 (blue--beautiful gun). Really nice guy. Anyway, so yeah, 357 vs 38. Totally different animal.
Mizz Maddie I was at the range and this guy with a auto .45 blasting away at a target at 25 yards. He was decked out, looked like that LT in the old Hill Street Blues TV show. I walked up to the line in jeans and a station tee shirt with my Ruger .357 6” wheel gun. 6 shots, done, range clear. We both walked up to our 25 yard targets. Mr. Slick never hit the paper at all. My Ruger had a tight group in the center. Guys at the range were smirking as Mr. Rambo collected his stuff and left the range.
I won’t go .38 but I will look to buy a snub nose .357 for conceal carry. It’s not the capacity but the accuracy that counts IMHO.
I just like the Knock down power of .357 vs .38
That is how I roll
@@tedmckenna8339 I just picked up that new kimber ks6 dasa to replace my Smith and Wesson 442 for summer carry. Excited to eventually pick it up 👍
I have a taurus 605 nothing super fancy but all black nice over 2 inch snub I can shoot 38's all day I try to do that with 357. And well I left with the imprint of the handgrip in my palm 😂 out of a snub a 357 is basically someone slapping your hand as hard as they can and I want to buy more I love my 357
I love my gp100. It's the only .357 I've ever owned. Shooting .38 special out of it is smooth as butter. Transitioning from .357 to .38 in that gun makes the .38 feel like a .22 LR. It's amazing.
@@NoxianSoulHarvester if you ever can, try a ruger gp100. Mine has a 4in barrel and it is fantastic. You will love it. You can get that in a snub nose too.
Another great video, Paul. I've watched many of your videos and always learn a lot from each. You explain things and back them up with examples and personal practice. Thanks.
Love the amount of detail on these videos. The professional level quality is refreshing. By contrast, there are too many amateur CZcamsrs out there making firearms videos. Thanks Paul.
Very professional video. I carry a .38 +P, and I'm convinced it will get me through a confrontation. That said; more power to you .357 guys.
No pun intended in your last sentence, I'm sure. ;)
And you are quite a bit less likely to blow your eardrums out..
They'll ring a while that's for sure. Ruptured eardrum? That's when old uncle johnny thinks he can shoot the .460 XVR magnum without ear protection...
blackandgold978 the wife carrys a .357 with .38 special low recoil federal hydroshocks for self defense
+1. I have the Hornady 110gr .38+p critical defense in my 5-shooter (sp101). If a .357-P was made, I'd get that.
Paul with another masterpiece video review/comparison. I think I’ve watched around a hundred hours worth of his videos so far. Time well spent.
Excellent !!! This video is almost 2yrs old & is quite informative for any year. As always The things you show & the way you explain things covers all points. I couldn't get a better teacher !!!!!!!!
Thank-you,
Once again, liked & still subscribed !
I love Paul's videos. I can watch several times and learn something each time.
Your coverage of 38spec+P VS 357 was well put together and explained. You have sound arguments and backed it up with real world results from your side by side tests. Also your insight on the fact that just because the .357 is way more powerful than the 38+p does not mean it's the best fit for all situations and people. Great show !
Not everyone needs to be able to stop a bear at 15 yards-the +P seems better option for ordinary CCF.
Great video Paul. FWIW I had to use my issued .38 three times during my 30 year career and it dropped the bad guy every time. I have no doubt the .357 is a lot more powerful but when carrying a light revolver in retirement it’s too hard to control follow up shots.
Thank you for your service sir, what load did you commonly carry for law enforcement?
You are a great teacher sir... I learned so much from your vids.. I just started reloading and I got rid of my .38 J frame and got a SP101. I reload .357 and I had to update my carry revolver. A 357 is so versatile.. Keep the vids on coming. Love your work and especially the "you decide" comment!
That particular test (which appeared fair) showed that the in the shorter barrel the 357 had 74.46 percent of the kinetic energy it had with the longer barrel, whereas in the shorter barrel the 38+P had 77.71 percent of the kinetic energy it had with the longer barrel. So you're right ... the "percentage loss" of bullet energy due to a shorter barrel is practically the same for both the 357 and the 38+P. Consequently, even in a shorter barrel revolver the 357 is still a lot more powerful than the 38+P. Good video!
Best video on this topic. Paul is the best!
really? 🤦♂️
Yeah. A .357 *stings* when you shoot it from a S&W “Chief’s Special.” A .38+ does not! 😂
@@drcovell Yeah since a Chiefs Special is chambered for 38 special I imagine it would sting. Might have a hard time getting them in the chamber though
People!
Now that the FACTS are in and there is no question whatsoever that.357 magnum is more (by a lot) powerful than the.38 special, whatsoever you do please do not underestimate the power of the.38 special! This is a real cartridge that has been around for a long time and it is indeed deadly as hell in a close quarters battle situation. I like the.38 special for the simple reason that the power level is more manageable for me in a Ruger SP101 revolver. None of the points I’m making about this cartridge makes it better or worse than each other as they are NOT THE SAME!! Thank You Mr. Harrell!
Paul has several videos I love to watch over and over and over.......this is certainly one of them.
I throughly enjoyed several of these videos. I'm not new to firearms, but I truly enjoy the presentation and facts you insert in each segment, I'll be watching more, your way of educating is low key, but on point. Thank you for taking the time. I'm looking forward to watching the rest.
Paul really has it all. He can make you laugh and make you learn!
You remind me of one of my professors in college. You are very good at explaining things. I don't know anything about you or your profession, but I must say, you are very intelligent! Love your videos!! As always, thumbs up.
If Paul was a host on Mythbusters, his episodes would end with "is this myth busted? You be the judge" then fade to to black, roll credits.
Every time I thought I found a hole in what your saying, or a reason to point out different guns/barrel lengths....you covered it!... Well done sir!
Great presentation again, answered a lot of questions and alleviated any doubt. Thanks
This was the best comparison I've seen yet..Thx..
Very informative tests. I have shot both cartridges in snubbies and the heavy recoil and blast from the .357 convinced me that the plus P .38 is a more controllables/shootable option. It's a lot easier and quicker to get a second shot on target with the .38 Special.
Unargueably your firearm videos are the finest I have watched so far. You communicate whats needed to be said. In the clean, clear, intellectual, streight forward manner. The way it should, even when you stop to spend the remaining 5-10 minutes recaping and summing up everything that was said and done. I find myself locked in becaous Im still being fed valuable infermation. I cannot say that about all the other firearm videos.
Been watching your videos for a few years. Probably watched this one 4 times. Cracks me up! and the objectivity is tops! Thank you for the clarity!
Hey Paul my wife said that 3/8” makes all the difference. Funny because I didn’t know she was even into gun! Go figure 🤔
En extra 3/8" of your natural diameter is probably what she means, for +P try some Viagra.
Just speed up the velocity!
Hilarious!
😂
He could have used the Ruger GP for both the .38 spl and .357 mag for testing.
Paul, you just confirmed why I own a Ruger SP 101 in .357 and a GP 100 in .357...great review. Thanks
me too. got them both.
When I want to know something about calibers, cartridges etc. there is only one channel that I prefer that gives me accurate information. Thanks Mr Paul Harrel for your content. Much loved channel👌🏻
Paul, I love your videos. Informative and no macho BS. These have helped me with my personal CCW choices.
Great video Paul. I sure learned something tonight.
Excellent job. you have a sense of humor. You are just humorous.
Very nicely done! Simple, verifiable tests all can see and believe! Thanks for the clean approach.👍
Excellent info and well-presented. keep up the awesome work Paul!
Best gun channel on CZcams, keep the good work!
Thanks Paul!
I just bought two hammerless .38 specials for concealed carry, and this video made me smile about my choice.
Nice video. Once again you bring up excellent points, and back each one up with a demonstration/comparison.
I finally gave in and subbed! After watching 2 or 3 of your videos per day for the past week or so, I'm finding that you get to the point, make good sense, add a little humor (but not too much), and thoroughly explain the topic at hand. Keep them coming!
Gary Decker after your ranting and raving I decided to give him a chance... now I'm subscribed just great videos. (also I'm super glad he got a new camera)
Too bad Gary, Paul has been putting out great information with proof that what he says he proves for about 8 years . Go back and check out some of his older videos. You will find loads of factual knowledge. Enjoy.
☝️This
I have been carrying a SP 101 .357 with 2.25" barrel since the early '90s! I once shot a 250 lb feral hog at 30 some yards with a 125 gr hollow point. Did the job!
Another informative video with some humor thrown in. I really like your practical and real world comparisons.
One of the best bullet explanation video I've ever seen, I love the number crunching and jokes! Very good I'm subscribed! Thanks
Excellent video Paul. You really have a talent for making informative vids with subtle humor that both entertain and educate. Don't change a thing and keep them coming... when you have time of course.
Absolutely a fantastic and informative video! I carry a 3" SP101 357 mag so I really found this video interesting.
Plus one for the Ruger SP101 .357 3.2". This presentation make me feel better about my choice (not that I really need the validation).
Chris Noyb yes you do lmao
The SP101 is a solid choice.
One of the few channels I autolike before I watch the video. Always guaranteed quality and concise information.
Paul, you are a breath of fresh air in the gun world. Not to mention hilarious. Your deadpan comedy cracks me up.
Good video! Snub nosed 357s rock! Yes, the recoil and muzzle blast are unique, but it gets the job done!
I'm usually done shooting after the first cylinder...357 snubbies don't feel good on the wrist after a few rounds lol.
Pure factual evidence without the BS. Wish the news channels operated the same way. Most useful real-world firearm info anywhere. "That's a lot more!"
one of my favorite dudes. no nonsense no frills just facts and doesn't MAKE one think like he thinks. just facts....thank you!!!!
Another EXCELLENT Paul Harrell production. I really appreciate the work you put into these videos.
Thanks for an analysis based on reason and data. I've never thought much about whether the .357 magnum was the same as the .38 special in a short-barrelled revolver. My own preference is that I just like having at least four inches of barrel when I shoot a .357 magnum.
The final comment he made has a lot of truth. The size and weight of a .38 and a .357 means you might not carry the larger gun for concealment reasons. I carried a snub nose, S&W model 60, .38 spl and also a S&W Model 19, .357, in 2 inch. I did not find the recoil a problem. The larger frame on the 357 absorbed more recoil then the .38 lighter frame. BUT Working in Florida with shorts and T. Shirts made the larger gun almost non concealable. In real combat I shot under an automobile hit the person in the ankle with a snub nose. The larger gun would have made no deference as an ankle shot was all that was available. Years later my partner and I shot a robber, after he had fired at us. We both had .357 Mod. 19 S&W. He was hit in the liver but we don't know if it was my shot or my partners shot. The robber was able to run from the scene, break into a home, kidnap the occupants, steal a car and lead us in a chase for over an hour before he passed out. He died years later in prison.
Good info. Shooting someone in the ankle is fine if that's the only shot you have. What's that movie where the guy says, "I shot him in the back because his back was to me." Your liver shot makes a very good example of the notion that power is fine but shot placement is final.
It was from El Diablo. An HBO movie from 1990 with Anthony Edwards (Goose in Top Gun) and Lou Gossett Jr. Edwards asked Gossett why he shot him in the back and he replied, "His back was to me".
My favorite was when he said, "He wanted to be sheriff real bad. Now he's sheriff... Real bad.
I have the 11.4 oz 360 PD .357 Magnum S&W that weighs 13.7 oz. loaded. It has a 1.875 inch barrel.
The KAHR CM9 is 14 oz UNLOADED with a three inch barrel.
As a retired LEO I find it hard to believe the investigation that followed didn't take both guns to compare the rifling and recovered bullet to determine whose weapon fired the hit shot.... that's kind of important to include in the report. I also carried a .357 back in the late 70's before we changed to S/A Berettas.
Paul this is the best video ever!.i have been researching this for some time!ty sir!
Whatever people say, this is one of the most objective comparison I have seen. Thanks a lot! Great video.
Great video! Hope you can revisit/re-film the topic again someday with current ammo, guns, film equipment, but most importantly meat targets.
Best firearm channel ever.
I come back and rewatch this video every couple of months just to reassure myself of this info. Thanks for this.
Another great video demonstration from Paul Harrell! Paul; You are the greatest expert and demonstrator. I have gotten many of my friends hooked on your videoes. Most of them saying, "I REALY LIKE THIS GUY." Keep up the good work! Retired sniper U.S. Army. Former gunsmith, FFL Dealer.
One thing you left out for noobs is if they get the .357 (like the Ruger SP101) they can also shoot .38 and .38 + P with it thus making it a much more vesatile gun than the 38 only. Good down to earth demonstration .....
Currently they only have one handgun available in SP101 for .38+P (the rest being .357 in that caliber). Otherwise almost the entire selection of LCR series are .38+P.
any gun chambered in .357 can also shoot .38 or .38+p
Yeah, if you want, or need, that versatility then that's a good point. If you know you will only be shooting .38 spl. though you'd be better off with a revolver chambered for .38 spl. than a .357 mag..
EDIT: I just want to update my post here by saying that I am no longer of the opinion that the cylinder gap is really significant in a revolver, or at least enough to consider it a factor in choosing between a .357 mag. and a .38 Spl. only revolver. I still get replies on this old post here from years ago, so I thought I'd just update this. Still, I feel there is a place for .38 Spl. revolvers and you may want one and know that you won't ever be shooting .357 magnum in it, but personally I would prefer to have that flexibility.
Ghost of Manitou because it is heavier
@@WhoWouldWantThisName Why?
I’m actually purchasing my first hand gun and it’s a Taurus 605. These videos are crucial to me. Learning about snubnose revolvers and the different types of ammo is great when it’s this well formatted. Thanks for the vid. Keep them coming.
I really enjoyed this and learned a whole lot! Thank you!
The best explanation yet of the differences.
Great video. The .38 Special may not be up to the .357, but it's been killing people pretty well for over a century. And for use in a compact revolver, it seems like it's more than sufficient in most instances where it might be called upon.
Man, I'm glad I found your channel! Could you test the theory that rubber bullets fired from a .357 magnum could possibly penetrate and be fatal? Or whatever caliber you prefer
I learn so much from your videos. Excellent, relevant information! Thanks very much!
I'm a 'beginner', I very much enjoy watching Paul's videos. I feel confident that I can learn alot and most importantly, He seems knowledgeable and thorough. Many of the questions I have about what I'm learning are answered within the same video. Many questions I've never thought to ask are covered too.🐒
Nice video. Got a 3" SP101 .357, love it.
Great! This puts the .38 vs .357 out of a 2" barrel argument to rest. Thanks. :-)
This has got to be the most thorough well presented video presentation I have ever seen on CZcams. THIS is why people learn so much on CZcams. Because of videos like this. EXCELLENT job! You have answered all my questions, and then some! The teacher gives you an A+ !
Very good and informative video. You answered a lot of my questions. Thanks!
I know this is an older video and you probably won't read this... But anyway, although when you get to pistols, and short barrels in general, the powder needing time to burn is a considerable part of the differences in velocity with respect to barrel length, The more absolute reason is the distance the pressure acts on the bullet. Even if the powder could detonate fully/instantaneously a longer barrel would always give more velocity until you reach a point where the pressure's force is equal to friction (normally an irrationally long barrel).
Love your videos and like how you always explain things to their truest point. This is just an engineers pedantic comment.
An additional factor is that the gas expands at an almost steady, but declining, rate as the volume of the barrel into which it is expanding increases as the bullet travels to the muzzle. This, more than the friction, is the reason that increase in barrel length only increases velocity up to a certain point. Note that the barrel volume increases dramatically with caliber. A friend built an 18" AR for 7.62x39 with a rifle length gas system - and the gas system wouldn't function. A similar barrel/gas system in 5.56 works fine. The answer was the slightly lower pressure of the 7.62x39 coupled with the enormous increase in barrel volume from .223 to .30 meant there just wasn't enough pressure left to do the job of cycling the action. So when you exceed the optimal length for a given caliber the charge literally "runs out of gas" before the bullet hits the muzzle.
I had this argument for the second time with a dealer at my local gun shop. I'm going to have him look up this video. This is almost to a T validating my argument. Thanks for the video
The problem with dealers of any kind is that they have something to sell. Heard in a gun store once:
Customer: - "Is a .40 more or less powerful than a .45?"
Clerk: - "Oh, much more powerful!"
And in another shop back in 1999: "Colt is no longer selling to civilians. Here's a Kimber 1911 for you to look at instead."
clerk trying to sell a .357 mag. rifle: "at 100 yards this will have more energy than a .30-30"
Good video Paul. Damn, you have the best videos around.
Thanks
Nice job. Excellent communication skills, tests, and empirical anecdotes.
How the hell can Paul read that chronograph from that distance?
Good eyes!!!
Paul is super human
Paul is telling the Chrony the speed; the Chrony is just recording the data.
Cool deal! I've been carrying a Ruger LCR 38+P when I can. (More often I'm pocketing an LCR). No More. I'm getting the .357 mag right now.
Thanks!
Robert Kenney I think that what really matters is where the round hits ... a good hit with your 38 would have a good chance of stopping a threat
Keep in mind that being good with a .357 magnum WILL depend a lot on your Grip Strength, not for the limp wrist crowd.
I’m just seeing this in 2022. This video is well-researched and VERY well-presented. Very straightforward! The discussion points are expertly-proven. Well-done, Sir.
Paul, thank you for all the video years! I always get a Paul hit when searching and asking questions about guns or ammo here. Dials me right in to a honest demonstrated opinion! Hard to ask for better than that imo. Thanks again
one of the best i seen. Instant subscribe
Thanks.
Me too, good quality.