124 vs. 115 Gr. 9mms in a P38

[albert]

All I have now during the shortage are 124 gr. plated bullets. The P38 is a little anemic when compared to other pistols. Anyone see a problem using them in moderate loads in a P38? I think the 9mm standard is 115 gr. bullets.

[Tuna]

You should be fine with your 124 gr loads. The original 9mm loading was the 124 gr bullet at just about 1100 fps from a four inch barrel.

[win308]

I think German WW2 ammo was fairly hot....moderate loads may not be required...or may not function the slide all the way.

[joem]

124 gr 9mm is all I shoot anymore in all my 9's. I don't load hot anyway and I get better function in the P38, lugars, Star and some others.

[PKelly]

Actually, 124 grain bullets were long the standard weight for the 9mm. I usually prefer the 124s as they're a bit more accurate at twentyfive yards and beyond. However, I've used plenty of 115s when that's all I could find. I've used plenty of both with the same powder charges without issue.

[jimb]

I use 125 gr cast in mine......

[togor]

I think German WW2 ammo was fairly hot....moderate loads may not be required...or may not function the slide all the way.

Agreed. I have some underpowered Russian FMJ stuff that will cycle in the G17 but not in the P38. P38 design needs a somewhat hot load to cycle, but will not necessarily last forever in doing so.