Mastering Your Marksmanship: The Federal .38 Special 130gr FMJ Range & Target Ammunition

Are you a new revolver owner seeking the perfect ammunition to confidently begin your shooting journey? Perhaps you're a seasoned enthusiast looking for a reliable, consistent, and cost-effective round to hone your marksmanship skills at the range. Or maybe you simply need bulk .38 Special practice ammo that delivers predictable performance every time. For anyone asking, "What is the best .38 Special ammunition for target practice?" or "Where can I find dependable FMJ rounds for my revolver training?", the answer frequently points to Federal Ammunition's Range & Target series. Specifically, the Federal .38 Special 130 grain Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) 50-round box (SKU: RTP38130, UPC: 029465064693) stands out as a premier choice for these very needs.

This isn't just another box of bullets; it's an investment in consistent training, improved shooting proficiency, and a more enjoyable range experience. Federal, a name synonymous with quality and innovation in the ammunition world, has meticulously engineered this load to offer the ideal balance of affordability, reliability, and performance for dedicated target shooters and casual plinkers alike.

Why Choose Federal Range & Target .38 Special 130gr FMJ?

Selecting the right ammunition is crucial for effective training. The Federal Range & Target .38 Special is specifically designed to meet the rigorous demands of repeated practice sessions without compromising on accuracy or cleanliness. Here's a deeper look into what makes this ammunition an exceptional choice:

• Unwavering Reliability: Federal Ammunition has built a reputation for manufacturing cartridges that feed, fire, and extract flawlessly. This .38 Special FMJ round continues that legacy, ensuring fewer stoppages and more uninterrupted training time. For new shooters, this reliability builds confidence, allowing them to focus on technique rather than firearm malfunctions. Experienced shooters appreciate the consistency, which is vital for diagnosing and improving their shooting habits.
• Consistent Performance: Every round is engineered to deliver predictable ballistics. With a muzzle velocity of 890 feet per second (fps) and a muzzle energy of 229 foot-pounds (ft lbs), this 130-grain FMJ provides a manageable recoil impulse while ensuring adequate energy to consistently cycle in appropriate firearms and make clear impacts on paper targets or steel. This consistency is paramount for accurate shot placement and effective skill development.
• Cost-Effective Training: Target shooting can be an expensive hobby, especially when training regularly. The Federal Range & Target series is designed to be an economical solution without sacrificing quality. The 50-round box allows for extended practice sessions, and for those who train frequently, purchasing these in bulk (20 boxes per case) offers even greater value, reducing the per-round cost significantly.
• Clean Shooting Experience: The Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) bullet design minimizes lead fouling in your firearm's barrel. This means less time spent on cleaning after a range session and more time enjoying your passion. The brass casing also contributes to cleaner operation and, for reloaders, offers excellent durability for multiple reloads.
• Optimal for .38 Special Firearms: This ammunition is perfectly suited for a wide array of .38 Special revolvers, from compact snub-nose models to larger frame revolvers and even specific pistol-caliber carbines chambered in .38 Special. Its balanced characteristics make it versatile for various shooting disciplines.

Diving Deeper into the Specifications and Benefits

Understanding the technical aspects of your ammunition can further enhance your shooting experience. Let's break down the key features of the Federal .38 Special 130gr FMJ:

The Versatility of .38 Special Caliber

The .38 Special cartridge, introduced in 1898, remains one of the most popular handgun cartridges in the world, primarily due to its moderate recoil, accuracy, and versatility. It's the quintessential revolver cartridge, widely used for target shooting, law enforcement training, and even self-defense in certain contexts. The Federal Range & Target load leverages these inherent qualities, providing a round that is comfortable to shoot for extended periods, making it ideal for new shooters learning fundamental techniques and for experienced shooters practicing advanced drills. Its broad compatibility with a vast installed base of revolvers makes it a go-to choice.

Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) Bullet Type: The Range Standard

The 130-grain Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) bullet is the hallmark of effective target ammunition. Unlike hollow-point or soft-point bullets designed for expansion, FMJ bullets feature a lead core fully encased in a copper or brass jacket. This design offers several advantages for range use:

• Reduced Barrel Fouling: The full metal jacket prevents lead contact with the barrel, significantly reducing lead buildup and making firearm cleaning easier and less frequent.
• Smooth Feeding: While less critical in revolvers, FMJ bullets offer smooth, consistent feeding in semi-automatic pistols chambered for .38 Special (though less common) or pistol-caliber carbines.
• Affordability: FMJ bullets are generally less expensive to produce than expanding bullets, contributing to the overall cost-effectiveness of these practice rounds.
• Predictable Trajectory: The consistent shape and weight of FMJ bullets contribute to predictable ballistics, which is crucial for accurate shot placement and understanding your firearm's point of impact.

130 Grain Bullet Weight: A Balanced Performer

The 130-grain bullet weight for .38 Special is a popular choice, offering a good balance between manageable recoil and sufficient energy. Lighter bullets might offer slightly less recoil but could be less stable, while heavier bullets might increase recoil. The 130-grain weight in this Federal load provides a consistent, mild shooting experience that allows shooters to focus on their fundamentals—grip, stance, sight alignment, and trigger control—without being distracted by excessive muzzle rise or kick. This balance makes it an excellent choice for shooters of all skill levels, particularly those spending long hours at the range.

Brass Casing Material: Quality and Reloadability

Each Federal .38 Special Range & Target cartridge features a durable brass casing. Brass is the preferred material for ammunition casings for several reasons:

• Durability: Brass cases withstand the pressures of firing exceptionally well and are resistant to corrosion, ensuring reliable performance even after long-term storage.
• Reliable Extraction: The smooth surface and consistent dimensions of brass casings ensure reliable extraction from your firearm's cylinder or chamber.
• Reloadability: For handloaders, the high-quality brass used by Federal is an excellent foundation for reloading, allowing you to extend the value of your initial purchase and customize loads for specific needs (though factory loads are recommended for general practice). This is a significant cost-saving benefit for high-volume shooters.

Muzzle Velocity and Energy: Performance Metrics

With a muzzle velocity of 890 feet per second (fps) and a muzzle energy of 229 foot-pounds (ft lbs), the Federal .38 Special 130 grain FMJ delivers performance optimized for target applications.

• Muzzle Velocity (890 fps): This indicates how fast the bullet leaves the barrel. For a .38 Special, 890 fps is a standard, consistent velocity that provides a relatively flat trajectory at typical target shooting distances, simplifying aiming for shooters.
• Muzzle Energy (229 ft lbs): This measurement reflects the bullet's kinetic energy upon exiting the barrel. While not designed for maximum terminal performance, 229 ft lbs is more than sufficient for punching clean holes in paper targets and reliably activating reactive steel targets, providing clear feedback on shot placement.

Who Benefits Most from This Ammunition?

The Federal .38 Special 130gr FMJ Range & Target ammunition is a versatile choice, catering to a broad spectrum of shooters:

• New Firearm Owners: Learning to shoot a revolver effectively requires practice. This ammunition's manageable recoil and consistent performance provide a forgiving platform for mastering the basics.
• Revolver Enthusiasts: Whether you own a classic Smith & Wesson, a robust Ruger, or any other .38 Special revolver, this ammo will perform reliably and consistently, making every range trip productive.
• Competitive Shooters (Practice): While not a match-grade competition round, its consistency makes it an excellent choice for practice and drills, allowing competitive shooters to refine their technique without burning through more expensive match ammunition.
• Those Seeking Bulk Ammunition: The availability in 50-round boxes and 20-box cases makes it incredibly convenient and cost-effective for individuals or groups who engage in frequent, high-volume practice sessions.
• Shooting Instructors and Ranges: Providing students with reliable, affordable, and clean-shooting ammunition is paramount. This Federal load fits the bill perfectly for training environments.

Trust in Federal: A Legacy of Excellence

For nearly a century, Federal Ammunition has been at the forefront of ammunition manufacturing, earning a reputation for quality, innovation, and reliability. From their state-of-the-art facilities, Federal engineers and produces ammunition that sets industry standards. Their commitment to rigorous quality control ensures that every box of Federal Range & Target .38 Special meets stringent performance criteria, giving shooters confidence with every pull of the trigger. When you choose Federal, you're not just buying ammunition; you're investing in decades of expertise and a dedication to superior performance. This deep-seated expertise is why Federal products are often referenced by experts and recommended by shooting professionals worldwide.

Where to Acquire Your Federal Range & Target Ammunition

When you're ready to stock up on reliable .38 Special practice ammunition, look no further than DEGuns. As a trusted provider of firearms and shooting accessories, DEGuns offers the Federal .38 Special 130 Grain Full Metal Jacket 50-Round Box (UPC: 029465064693), ensuring you have access to this essential training tool. Their commitment to customer service and comprehensive inventory makes acquiring your shooting essentials straightforward and convenient.

In conclusion, for anyone serious about improving their shooting skills with a .38 Special firearm, seeking reliable and cost-effective practice, or simply wanting to enjoy more time at the range, the Federal Range & Target 130gr FMJ ammunition is an unbeatable choice. It combines Federal's legendary quality with features specifically tailored for the demands of high-volume target practice, making it a foundational element for any shooter's arsenal. Invest in your training, and let Federal help you achieve your marksmanship goals.

Federal .38 Special Range & Target Ammunition Specifications

Category	Specification	Details
Manufacturer	Federal Ammunition	Trusted leader in ammunition
Product Line	Range & Target	Optimized for practice and training
Caliber	.38 Special	Ideal for revolvers and compatible carbines
Bullet Type	Full Metal Jacket (FMJ)	Clean shooting, reliable feeding
Bullet Weight	130 Grain (gr)	Balanced performance for target use
Muzzle Velocity	890 Feet Per Second (fps)	Consistent and predictable speed
Muzzle Energy	229 Foot-Pounds (ft lbs)	Sufficient for target impact feedback
Casing Material	Brass	Durable and reloadable
Rounds Per Box	50	Convenient quantity for range sessions
Boxes Per Case	20	Economical bulk purchase option
Application	Target Shooting, Training	Perfect for skill development
SKU/MPN	RTP38130	Federal's unique product identifier
UPC	029465064693	Universal Product Code for easy identification