Buy .38-40 Winchester Ammo for Sale
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COWBOY ACTION AMMO 38-40 WINCHESTER 180GR LEAD FLAT POINT - 38-40 Winchester 180gr FPL 50/Box
Brand:
Black Hills
Caliber:
.38-40 Winchester
Rounds:
50
Frequently Asked Questions
Buy .38-40 Winchester Ammo for Sale
Is a 38-40 good?
The .38-40 WCF is a capable historical cartridge suited for cowboy action shooting, particularly in lever-action rifles. It is not much of a deer gun unless the range is very short. Ammunition is scarce today, making handloading common among users. It remains a solid choice for classic firearm enthusiasts.
What caliber is a 38-40?
Despite its name, the .38-40 WCF is actually .40 caliber, using .400-inch diameter bullets. The misleading name likely reflects the 38-grain powder charge used in the original loading. Introduced in 1874, it was chambered in Winchester lever-action rifles and Colt Single Action Army revolvers.
Who makes 38-40 ammo?
HSM and Black Hills manufacture .38-40 WCF ammunition, both offering cowboy action loads with 180-grain bullets. Starline produces brass for handloaders. The cartridge is a niche caliber, so availability is limited and stock frequently sells out at retailers.
Is 38-40 the same as 38 Special?
No. The .38-40 WCF and .38 Special are distinct cartridges. The .38-40 uses .40-caliber bullets despite its name, while .38 Special uses .357-inch bullets. The .38-40 is a black powder rifle round from 1880; .38 Special is a smokeless revolver cartridge. They are not interchangeable.
What are cowboy loads?
Cowboy loads are reduced-velocity ammunition designed for cowboy action shooting competitions. They use soft lead bullets, typically flat-nosed, and generate less recoil than standard loads while protecting older firearms and steel targets. Velocities run 700–850 fps versus 1,000+ fps in standard loads.