Newb Question about .357 and .38 special

[trey.mac]

So i was kind of wondering how a .357 gun can shoot a .38 special bullet. i know the bullet diameter is the same, but the .38 case is shorter, so how does the firing pin reach it?

[sawyerob]

So i was kind of wondering how a .357 gun can shoot a .38 special bullet. i know the bullet diameter is the same, but the .38 case is shorter, so how does the firing pin reach it?

It reaches it because the case is shorter on the "front" end, instead of the back end. Just like you can shoot 44 spls in a 44 mag...

The spl case is 1/10th inch shorter, but the rim on the back end, keeps the case in the proper place for "headspace" so the fireing pin can hit it properly...

SR

[trey.mac]

aha. thank you for explaining =D