The Federal PD38P1 Punch delivers consistent expansion and deep penetration specifically engineered for short-barrel revolvers and compact firearms. This 38 Special +P load bridges the performance gap between standard pressure rounds and magnum cartridges, providing reliable stopping power without excessive recoil.
What Makes This Different
Federal's Punch line addresses the unique ballistic challenges of short-barrel firearms where many hollow point designs fail to expand reliably. The 120-grain jacketed hollow point bullet features a skived jacket and specially formulated lead core that initiates expansion at lower velocities than traditional defensive rounds. Independent testing shows consistent expansion even through heavy clothing and intermediate barriers.
Key Features
- 120-grain jacketed hollow point optimized for 2-inch barrel performance
- +P pressure rating delivers 950 fps muzzle velocity from 4-inch barrels
- Skived jacket design ensures reliable expansion at reduced velocities
- Low-flash propellant minimizes muzzle blast in low-light situations
- Nickel-plated brass cases resist corrosion and aid smooth feeding
- 20 rounds per box, 10 boxes per case for 200 total rounds
- Compatible with all 38 Special and 357 Magnum chambered firearms
Field testing demonstrates the Punch maintains expansion characteristics down to 900 fps impact velocity, making it effective from snub-nose revolvers where barrel length limits velocity potential. The moderate +P pressure generates manageable recoil for quick follow-up shots while delivering penetration depths of 12-15 inches in ballistic gelatin. Law enforcement agencies have adopted this load for backup guns and off-duty carry applications.
Technical Specs
- Caliber: 38 Special +P
- Bullet Weight: 120 grains
- Bullet Type: Jacketed Hollow Point (JHP)
- Muzzle Velocity: 950 fps (4-inch barrel)
- Muzzle Energy: 240 ft-lbs
- Case Material: Nickel-plated brass
- Primer: Non-corrosive, boxer-primed
- Quantity: 20 rounds per box, 200 rounds per case
- Manufacturer: Federal Premium Ammunition
- Country of Origin: United States
Federal's reputation for consistent quality control and precise manufacturing ensures uniform performance across every round. The Punch series represents a significant advancement in short-barrel ballistics, making previously underpowered platforms more effective for personal protection.