The Hornady Custom .38 Special 158 Grain XTP delivers the legendary stopping power and pinpoint accuracy that defensive shooters and range enthusiasts have trusted for decades, packaged in a 25-round box purpose-built for reliability.
- 158-grain XTP (Extreme Terminal Performance) bullet for deep, controlled expansion
- Muzzle velocity of 800 fps optimized for .38 Special revolvers
- Controlled expansion design delivers consistent, reliable terminal performance
- Hornady Custom brass cases ensure reliable feeding and easy reloading
- Swaged lead core bonded to jacket for uniform mushroom and weight retention
- 25 rounds per box — ideal for range practice and defensive carry stocking
Who This Is For
This load is an excellent choice for revolver owners who carry a .38 Special for personal protection, as well as shooters who demand consistent performance at the range. The 158-grain XTP bullet is a time-tested favorite among law enforcement trainers, concealed carry permit holders, and anyone who wants a proven defensive round that also performs predictably during practice sessions. It's equally well-suited for home defense revolvers, where reliable expansion and penetration matter most.
Specifications
| Brand | Hornady |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .38 Special |
| Bullet Weight | 158 Grain |
| Bullet Type | XTP (Extreme Terminal Performance) Hollow Point |
| Muzzle Velocity | 800 fps |
| Muzzle Energy | ~225 ft-lbs |
| Rounds Per Box | 25 |
| Casing Material | Brass |
| Primer Type | Centerfire |
| Application | Personal Defense / Range Training |
| Part Number | 90362 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Hornady XTP 158-grain load suitable for everyday concealed carry?
Yes. The 158-grain XTP hollow point is one of the most widely recommended defensive loads for .38 Special revolvers. Its controlled expansion technology ensures the bullet mushrooms reliably across a range of velocities, making it effective even from shorter-barreled snub-nose revolvers commonly used for concealed carry. The consistent terminal performance and deep penetration make it a trusted choice for self-defense situations.
What revolvers is this .38 Special ammunition compatible with?
This Hornady Custom load is compatible with any revolver chambered in .38 Special, including popular models from Smith & Wesson, Ruger, Taurus, and Colt. It can also be safely fired in revolvers chambered for .357 Magnum, since .38 Special is dimensionally compatible with that larger chamber. Always verify your specific firearm's manual and chamber specifications before use.
How does the XTP bullet differ from standard full metal jacket (FMJ) ammunition?
Unlike FMJ rounds, which have a solid copper jacket designed to pass through a target with minimal expansion, the Hornady XTP hollow point is engineered to expand upon impact. This controlled expansion increases the bullet's diameter, transferring more energy to the target and reducing the risk of over-penetration — a critical consideration in defensive scenarios. For range practice where no expansion is needed, FMJ is a cost-effective alternative, but for defense, the XTP's terminal performance is significantly superior.
- Caliber:
- 38 SPL
- Bullet Weight:
- 158 GR
- BulletType:
- XTP
- Purpose:
- Self Defense
- Type:
- Pistol Ammunition
- Box Quantity:
- 25
- Case Quantity:
- 250
- Lead Free:
- No