Understanding 38mm Ammunition: Impact and Applications

As often portrayed in popular media, confusion commonly arises between different types of ammunition. One such point of confusion is the differentiation between .38 caliber and 38mm. Despite this confusion, there is another type of 37mm weapon, known as a tear gas launcher, which can be easily mistaken for a larger grenade or rounds. In this article, we will explore the differences and implications of these terminologies, focusing on the unique aspects of 38mm ammunition and its various applications.

The Misconception of 38mm Bullets

It is a common misconception that there is such a thing as a 38mm bullet. However, this confusion stems from the confusion over different measurement systems and terminology. The .38 caliber refers to a firearm caliber, not a specific bullet size. This term specifies that the diameter of the bullet or the bore it is fired through is approximately 0.38 inches. This measurement system has historical roots in the imperial system, predating the adoption of the metric system worldwide.

The .38 Caliber: A Common Small-arms Caliber

The .38 caliber is a common caliber for small revolvers. The term "caliber" in this context refers to the diameter of the bullet, which is a standard way of measuring the size of ammunition before the metric system became the global norm. This measurement is still used by the American civilian market to distinguish their calibers from those used in other countries.

Confusions and Mischaracterizations

It is crucial to understand that the terms .38 caliber and 38mm refer to different things. While the .38 caliber is a standard measurement, 38mm is often misinterpreted to mean a larger, more powerful round. The reality is that a 38mm projectile would be about 1.5 inches thick, which is significantly larger than the standard 7.62mm or.308 caliber rounds. This would make it larger than a 40mm grenade launcher or nearly the width of a 40mm grenade rounds. Thus, the suggestion of a 38mm bullet hitting a human with the equivalent impact of a baseball or a bat is a gross exaggeration.

Specialized Weaponry: Tear Gas Launchers and Riot Control

One of the controlled and less lethal forms of 37mm ammunition is the tear gas launcher. This weapon is used for riot control and can fire either tear gas canisters or rubber bullets. These canisters are designed to incapacitate and disperse crowds, and rubber bullets are used to disperse individuals when other measures fail. Being hit by these canisters or bullets at close range, especially to the head or face, can cause severe pain and injury. Though less dangerous than more powerful rounds, they can still be fatal in close proximity. The pain and incapacitating effects are similar to being hit by a fast-moving baseball or bat.

Historical and Experimental Weapons

Historically, there has been an experimental weapon developed that comes close to the concept of a 38mm round for military use. The U.S. military experimented with a 25mm mini-grenade launcher, which was approximately the size of a large assault rifle. This weapon used a built-in timer to ensure the projectile would explode at a predetermined distance. The aim was to target enemy soldiers behind protective walls, but the weapon was ultimately cancelled due to high costs and unreliability in the field.

While the 38mm tear gas launcher and experimental 25mm mini-grenade launcher share some similarities with larger rounds, they are significantly different in both intended use and physical size. The 25mm weapon, for example, was a powerful anti-armor weapon and not intended for direct engagement with human targets.

In conclusion, the misconception around 38mm bullets and the true nature of .38 caliber ammunition highlight the importance of clear terminology in firearm and ammunition discussions. Understanding the differences between these terms is crucial for comprehending the technology, applications, and potential dangers associated with various types of ammunition.