The .38 Colt New Police: A Comprehensive Overview
The .38 Colt New Police, a revolver cartridge introduced by Colt in 1896, represents a significant moment in firearms history. Designed as an improvement over existing cartridges, it quickly gained popularity among law enforcement and civilian shooters alike. This article delves into the history, design, performance, and legacy of the .38 Colt New Police cartridge, offering a comprehensive overview for firearm enthusiasts, historians, and anyone interested in the evolution of ammunition.
History and Development
The late 19th century saw a rapid evolution in firearms technology. Cartridge development was at the forefront, with manufacturers constantly seeking to improve upon existing designs. The .38 Colt New Police was Colt’s answer to the demand for a more accurate and reliable cartridge. It was specifically designed for use in Colt revolvers, most notably the Colt New Police revolver, hence the name. Prior to its introduction, several other .38 caliber cartridges were available, but the .38 Colt New Police offered distinct advantages, particularly in terms of accuracy and ease of reloading.
The cartridge was essentially a slightly modified version of the .38 Short Colt, featuring a flattened bullet nose. This seemingly small change had a significant impact on accuracy and reduced the risk of bullet deformation during loading and firing. The flattened nose also contributed to improved stopping power, a crucial consideration for law enforcement.
Design and Specifications
The .38 Colt New Police cartridge is a centerfire cartridge, meaning the primer is located in the center of the cartridge base. This design provides reliable ignition and consistent performance. The standard bullet weight for the .38 Colt New Police is typically 150 grains, though variations exist. The bullet is typically made of lead, either plain or with a jacket of copper or other metal. The case is made of brass, providing durability and reloadability.
Key specifications of the .38 Colt New Police cartridge include:
- Bullet Diameter: .357 inches
- Neck Diameter: .379 inches
- Base Diameter: .379 inches
- Rim Diameter: .427 inches
- Case Length: 0.775 inches
- Overall Length: 1.10 inches
These dimensions are crucial for ensuring proper fit and function in firearms chambered for the .38 Colt New Police cartridge.
Firearms Chambered for .38 Colt New Police
While the .38 Colt New Police was primarily designed for Colt revolvers, it was also chambered in other firearms. The most notable firearm is the Colt New Police revolver. This revolver was specifically designed to take advantage of the cartridge’s improved accuracy and stopping power. Other firearms chambered for the .38 Colt New Police include some Smith & Wesson revolvers, further contributing to the cartridge’s widespread adoption.
The Colt New Police revolver was a popular choice among law enforcement officers due to its reliability, accuracy, and manageable recoil. Its compact size also made it easy to conceal, an important factor for officers working in plainclothes or undercover.
Performance and Ballistics
The .38 Colt New Police cartridge offers moderate performance, making it suitable for self-defense and target shooting. Its ballistics are comparable to other .38 caliber cartridges of the era. A typical .38 Colt New Police load will produce a muzzle velocity of around 750 feet per second with a 150-grain bullet, generating approximately 200 foot-pounds of energy. While this may not seem like much compared to modern high-powered cartridges, it was considered adequate for its intended purpose at the time.
The cartridge’s accuracy is one of its key strengths. The flattened bullet nose and consistent manufacturing tolerances contribute to tight groupings at typical self-defense distances. The manageable recoil also makes it easier to control the firearm and maintain accuracy during rapid fire.
The .38 Colt New Police vs. .38 Special
It’s important to distinguish the .38 Colt New Police from the more popular .38 Special. While both cartridges share a similar bullet diameter, they are not interchangeable. The .38 Special is a longer and more powerful cartridge than the .38 Colt New Police. Attempting to fire a .38 Special in a firearm chambered for the .38 Colt New Police can result in serious damage to the firearm and potential injury to the shooter.
The .38 Special was introduced in 1902 and quickly surpassed the .38 Colt New Police in popularity due to its increased power and versatility. However, the .38 Colt New Police continued to be produced for many years and remains a viable option for those who own firearms chambered for it.
Reloading the .38 Colt New Police
Reloading the .38 Colt New Police cartridge is a viable option for those who wish to reduce their ammunition costs or tailor their loads to specific needs. Reloading allows shooters to experiment with different bullet weights, powder charges, and primer types to achieve optimal performance. However, it’s essential to follow established reloading procedures and consult reliable reloading manuals to ensure safety and prevent damage to the firearm.
Components for reloading the .38 Colt New Police are generally available from most major reloading suppliers. Brass cases can be reused multiple times, provided they are properly inspected and maintained. Bullets are available in a variety of weights and styles, allowing reloaders to customize their loads for specific purposes.
The Legacy of the .38 Colt New Police
Despite being overshadowed by the .38 Special, the .38 Colt New Police cartridge played a significant role in the history of firearms. It represented a step forward in cartridge design, offering improved accuracy and reliability compared to its predecessors. It was widely adopted by law enforcement and civilian shooters alike, and it helped to establish Colt as a leading manufacturer of firearms and ammunition. The .38 Colt New Police served as a stepping stone in the development of more powerful and versatile cartridges, ultimately contributing to the evolution of firearms technology.
Today, the .38 Colt New Police is primarily of interest to collectors and historical firearm enthusiasts. Ammunition can still be found, though it may be more expensive and less readily available than more common cartridges. Firearms chambered for the .38 Colt New Police are also sought after by collectors, particularly those in good condition with original markings. [See also: Colt Revolver History] [See also: Ammunition Collecting Guide]
Modern Availability
While not as prevalent as other cartridges, the .38 Colt New Police can still be found on the market. Several ammunition manufacturers continue to produce it, although in smaller quantities compared to more popular rounds like the .38 Special or 9mm. Online retailers and specialty gun stores are typically the best places to source .38 Colt New Police ammunition. Due to its relative scarcity, it often commands a higher price point.
For those who own firearms chambered in .38 Colt New Police, or are interested in preserving a piece of firearms history, the availability of ammunition is a welcome sign. It ensures that these classic firearms can continue to be enjoyed and appreciated. The .38 Colt New Police remains a testament to the ingenuity and innovation of early cartridge design.
In conclusion, the .38 Colt New Police, while perhaps not as widely recognized as its successor, the .38 Special, holds a significant place in the history of firearms. Its development marked an important advancement in cartridge technology, contributing to the evolution of handguns and ammunition. From its design and specifications to its performance and legacy, the .38 Colt New Police stands as a testament to the enduring quest for improved accuracy, reliability, and stopping power in the world of firearms. Understanding its history and characteristics provides valuable insight into the broader context of firearms development and the ongoing pursuit of excellence in ammunition design.
