DoubleTap 38 Special 148gr JHP Controlled Expansion – Proven Low Flash Revolver Ammo, 20 Rounds

Description

The DoubleTap 38 Special 148gr JHP load is DoubleTap’s answer for revolver owners who want the classic 148 grain weight in a true defensive hollow point. DoubleTap says the load makes the 38 Special perform like it should, with virtually no muzzle flash, about 13 inches of penetration, and roughly 1,050 fps and 362 ft-lbs from a 4 inch Colt Python. Each box holds 20 rounds.

• Why a 148 Grain Hollow Point
• DoubleTap 38 Special 148gr JHP Specifications
• Field Notes and Carry Tips

Why a 148 Grain Hollow Point

The 148 grain weight is best known in the 38 Special as a target wadcutter. DoubleTap took that same weight and built a Controlled Expansion jacketed hollow point around it. The heavier bullet carries more momentum than light 110 and 125 grain loads, which helps it reach adequate depth from short revolver barrels.

Controlled Expansion bullets are designed to open reliably without fragmenting. DoubleTap reports about 13 inches of penetration, a depth that reaches vital organs through typical clothing while limiting the risk of overpenetration compared with solid bullets.

Low muzzle flash is a real benefit in a defensive revolver load. Short barrels often produce a bright fireball with standard powders, and DoubleTap built this round to keep flash down so your eyes adjust faster in low light.

DoubleTap ammunition is known for careful quality control and purpose-built carry loads. The DoubleTap 38 Special 148gr JHP gives revolver owners a heavier hollow point option that performs well from both service-length and snub-nose barrels.

DoubleTap 38 Special 148gr JHP Specifications

Before you load your cylinder, it helps to know exactly what is in the box. The list below summarizes the vendor and manufacturer data for this item.

• Brand: DoubleTap Ammunition
• Caliber: 38 Special
• Bullet weight: 148 grain
• Bullet type: Controlled Expansion jacketed hollow point (JHP)
• Velocity: about 1,050 fps from a 4 inch Colt Python
• Muzzle energy: about 362 ft-lbs
• Penetration: about 13 inches (manufacturer data)
• Flash: low flash powder
• Quantity: 20 rounds per box
• Manufacturer part number: 38SP148CE
• UPC: 753387049055

Field Notes and Carry Tips

Distributor listings for this UPC show it as 38 Special, while DoubleTap’s own page lists it as a +P load. To be safe, fire it only in revolvers rated for 38 Special +P, which covers most modern steel-frame models.

Fire a few cylinders of this 38 Special self defense ammo before carrying it. Heavier 148 grain bullets often print higher than lighter loads in fixed-sight revolvers, so confirm your point of impact at 7 to 15 yards.

Check for bullet jump in lightweight revolvers. After firing several rounds, inspect the unfired cartridges and replace any that have moved forward before carrying them.

Clean the chambers after range sessions, especially if you also shoot .357 Magnum ammunition in the same revolver. Carbon rings left by shorter cases can make longer cartridges hard to load if they build up.

Heavier bullets also tend to settle a revolver’s recoil into more of a push than a snap. Many shooters find a 148 grain load easier to control in a mid-size revolver than a light, fast +P round, which helps keep follow-up shots on target during practice and under stress.

For home defense, keep the revolver loaded with the same ammunition you practice with and store it securely. A revolver can sit loaded for long periods without spring fatigue, which makes it a dependable choice for a nightstand gun when paired with a quality defensive load like this one.

Practice with a speed loader or speed strip and the holster you actually carry. Rotate carry ammunition regularly and store spare boxes in a cool, dry place away from solvents and lubricants.

This load is a strong fit for 38 Special and .357 Magnum revolver owners who want a heavier hollow point with low flash for carry or home defense. If you want 38 Special carry ammo that makes the cartridge perform at its best, the DoubleTap 38 Special 148gr JHP is a proven choice.

Prefer a lighter copper bullet? The DoubleTap 38 Special 110gr Lead Free is a fast alternative, and full load data is available from DoubleTap Ammunition.