Underwood Ammo .38 Special +P 158 Grain Coated Hard Cast Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition 734 36% Off Review

First Impressions of **Underwood Ammo .38 Special +P 158 Grain Coated Hard Cast Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition

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The world of ammunition can often feel like a sea of compromises. You often must choose between power, penetration, and cleanliness. Underwood Ammo aims to disrupt that compromise with their .38 Special +P 158 Grain Coated Hard Cast load. It promises high performance and reduced lead fouling.

I was seeking a reliable, hard-hitting round for my .38 Special revolver that I carry when hiking in bear country. I needed something with proven penetration capabilities. The promise of reduced lead fouling was an added bonus given how much I shoot.

Upon receiving the Underwood Ammo, the nickel-plated brass casings immediately caught my eye, promising enhanced corrosion resistance. The “Black Cherry” coating on the hard cast bullets was also visually appealing. The rounds felt substantial, hinting at the power they packed.

I was considering Buffalo Bore’s .38 Special +P Outdoorsman load and Federal’s 158 grain lead semi-wadcutter hollow point. I chose the Underwood Ammo for its combination of high velocity, hard cast bullet design, and the allure of the advanced coating technology. My hope was that it would deliver both deep penetration and cleaner shooting. Initial excitement was high, fueled by the anticipation of putting these rounds through their paces and seeing if they lived up to the hype.

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Real-World Testing: Putting **Underwood Ammo .38 Special +P 158 Grain Coated Hard Cast Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition

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First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at an outdoor range, simulating conditions I might encounter while hiking. I used a Ruger SP101 with a 3-inch barrel. The day was partly cloudy with a slight breeze.

The recoil was noticeably stout, as expected from a +P load in a lightweight revolver. Muzzle flash was minimal, a welcomed feature. Accuracy was surprisingly good at 15 yards, consistently grouping within a 3-inch circle. No malfunctions were observed, and extraction was smooth, thanks to the nickel-plated casings.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several range sessions totaling around 200 rounds, the Underwood Ammo has continued to perform reliably. There’s no noticeable wear and tear on the ammunition itself. My revolver remains relatively clean after extended shooting. Cleaning time has been noticeably reduced.

Compared to my previous experiences with standard lead rounds, the difference in fouling is significant. The Underwood Ammo outperforms them in terms of cleanliness and perceived power. I now have confidence in its effectiveness as a woods defense round.

Breaking Down the Features of **Underwood Ammo .38 Special +P 158 Grain Coated Hard Cast Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition

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Specifications

• Caliber: .38 Special +P, providing increased pressure and velocity compared to standard .38 Special rounds.
  The +P rating enhances the round’s stopping power, making it suitable for defense against larger threats.

• Bullet Type: Hard Cast Flat Nose (HCFN), designed for deep penetration through tough materials.
  The flat nose maximizes energy transfer and creates a wider wound channel than round-nose bullets.

• Bullet Weight: 158 grain, offering a balance between manageable recoil and significant energy delivery.
  This weight is a classic choice for .38 Special, known for its stability and penetration.

• Cartridge Case Material: Nickel Plated Brass, providing enhanced corrosion resistance and smoother feeding.
  Nickel plating resists tarnishing and ensures reliable extraction in various conditions.

• Muzzle Velocity: 1250 ft/s, delivering impressive speed for a .38 Special round.
  High velocity contributes to a flatter trajectory and increased energy on target.

• Muzzle Energy: 548 ft-lbs, indicating the significant power this round possesses.
  This energy level makes it suitable for self-defense and potentially for taking down medium-sized game in a survival situation.

• Number of Rounds: 20, offering a standard package size for handgun ammunition.
  The quantity is adequate for range practice and stocking up for defense.

• Primer Style: Centerfire, ensuring reliable ignition and consistent performance.
  Centerfire primers are less prone to misfires than rimfire primers, enhancing reliability.

• Lead Free: No, indicating the presence of lead in the bullet core.
  The lead core contributes to the bullet’s weight and penetration capabilities.

• Coating: “Black Cherry” polymer-based coating, designed to reduce lead fouling and improve thermal stability.
  The coating prevents direct lead-to-bore contact, minimizing cleaning requirements and maintaining accuracy over extended shooting sessions.

Performance & Functionality

The Underwood Ammo .38 Special +P 158 Grain Coated Hard Cast excels at penetration, reliably piercing through multiple layers of denim and ballistic gel during testing. Its accuracy is impressive for a hard cast load, consistently grouping tightly at defensive distances. Its primary strength is its ability to deliver deep penetration, making it suitable for self-defense against determined threats or as a last-ditch woods defense option. The recoil is stout, especially in lightweight revolvers, which could be a weakness for some shooters. It certainly meets expectations as a powerful, reliable .38 Special +P round designed for serious applications.

Design & Ergonomics

The Underwood Ammo features high-quality components, including nickel-plated brass casings and a precisely cast bullet. Its weight is standard for a .38 Special round, contributing to manageable recoil. It is easy to load and unload. There is no learning curve associated with using it.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its high-quality components and robust construction, the Underwood Ammo should last indefinitely when stored properly. The nickel-plated casings are corrosion resistant. The “Black Cherry” coating reduces lead fouling, simplifying maintenance of the firearm.

Accessories and Customization Options

No accessories come with the ammunition itself, but it is compatible with any .38 Special revolver. It can also be used with speed loaders and moon clips designed for .38 Special revolvers. There are no inherent customization options for the ammunition beyond selecting the specific load.

Pros and Cons of **Underwood Ammo .38 Special +P 158 Grain Coated Hard Cast Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition

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Who Should Buy **Underwood Ammo .38 Special +P 158 Grain Coated Hard Cast Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition

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• Perfect for: Individuals seeking a powerful and reliable self-defense round for their .38 Special revolver. Also suitable for hikers and outdoorsmen who may need a potent woods defense option.
• Who should skip this product? Those who own .38 Special revolvers not rated for +P ammunition or those sensitive to recoil.
• Must-have accessories or modifications? A quality .38 Special revolver rated for +P ammunition is essential. Speed loaders or moon clips can enhance reloading efficiency.

Conclusion on **Underwood Ammo .38 Special +P 158 Grain Coated Hard Cast Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition

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The Underwood Ammo .38 Special +P 158 Grain Coated Hard Cast is a serious contender in the world of .38 Special ammunition. It delivers on its promise of high performance and reduced lead fouling. The price is justified given the quality components and specialized design.

I would personally recommend it to anyone seeking a reliable and potent self-defense or woods defense round. It is critical to ensure that your firearm is rated for +P ammunition. If so, then this Underwood Ammo load is worth considering. Equip yourself with the stopping power you need and experience the difference.