Can I use +P ammunition in a Taurus .38 Special Model 85 snubby revolver?

Question

I recently purchased a secondhand Model 85 Taurus .38 Special (snubby with 2" barrel). I bought PMC +P hollowpoint ammunition. Is this firearm rated for +P ammo? Will it damage the gun? I want to use this type of ammo for self-defense.

I also purchased factory reloaded (full metal jacket) ammunition for practise at the firing range. Is this bad for the firearm?

Answer 1

130 gr. FMJ .38's are not bad for your gun, but they are lousy loads and generally not very accurate.  After you shoot the ones you have, don't bother with them again.  Generic 158 gr. Lead Round Nose or Mid-range Target Wadcutters will give you better results.

I would not shoot much +P ammo if that Taurus M-85 were mine.  New Taurus revolvers are rated to take +P ammo, but older guns were not.  Unless you know your new revolver is less than 10 years old, I'd say shoot standard .38 loads for practice and fun, reserving the +P ammo for Social Use.  Limit your shooting of +P ammo to a cylinder full or two per range session and you should be OK.

Doc