.38 Super vs 9mm: Is the Underdog Worth Carrying?

When it comes to handgun calibers, the 9mm sits comfortably on the throne. It’s cheap, everywhere, and gets the job done. But if you’re the type who digs a little deeper, you might have run across its fast, flat-shooting cousin: the .38 Super.

Originally developed in 1929 to defeat barriers like car doors and early body armor, the .38 Super still packs a serious punch today.

So, why do some shooters choose it over the modern 9mm? And more importantly, is .38 Super a good option for self-defense?

Ballistics That Matter

Here’s where .38 Super really earns its keep. Using real-world loads from HOP Munitions, the numbers speak for themselves:

9mm – 147gr JHP ($17.99/box)

Velocity: 1,000 fps
Energy: 326 ft-lbs

.38 Super +P – 124gr JHP ($19.99/box)

Velocity: 1,350 fps
Energy: 465 ft-lbs

.38 Super +P – 90gr JHP ($17.99/box)

Velocity: 1,600 fps
Energy: 512 ft-lbs

That’s a serious bump in speed and energy. The result? A flatter trajectory, more reliable expansion, and solid barrier penetration—all things you want in a self-defense load.

Recoil and Shootability

Despite being a higher-pressure round, .38 Super doesn’t feel harsh. In fact, many shooters find it softer shooting than snappy 9mm +P loads—especially in steel-frame pistols like 1911s. That means quicker follow-up shots and better control when it matters most.

Is It Practical to Carry?

Let’s be real—9mm wins on convenience:

• More guns available
• More ammo options
• Higher capacity in compact pistols

But .38 Super has its own appeal. Most guns chambered in it are 1911-style, which gives you great ergonomics, solid triggers, and excellent shootability. If you’re okay with fewer rounds and a slightly bigger gun, the trade-off is worth considering.

And thanks to companies like HOP Munitions, pricing on .38 Super is no longer a dealbreaker. Their loads hit hard, shoot clean, and cost way less than other premium options.

What About Competition?

While this isn’t a competition-focused post, it’s worth mentioning: .38 Super dominates in USPSA Open Division. Why? It hits Major Power Factor with less recoil than .40 or .45. HOP’s 124-grain load, running at 1,350 fps, puts you at a power factor of 167.4—comfortably in Major territory.

That kind of performance, built for fast splits and flat shooting, carries over nicely to self-defense scenarios too.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve never considered .38 Super, now’s a good time. It’s not just for old-school guys or open-class race guns. With modern ammo like HOP Munitions’ +P JHPs, you get:

• Faster velocities than 9mm
• Flatter shooting and more energy
• Manageable recoil and excellent control

And here’s the kicker—you’ll be hard pressed to find better-performing ammo at this price point.

So, is .38 Super good for self-defense? Absolutely—if you’re willing to step outside the mainstream. And sometimes, that’s exactly where the best gear lives.