Description
If you're looking for defensive ammunition that won't beat you up but delivers when it matters, this Wilson Combat 38 Special +P loading sits right in that sweet spot. Loaded with Lehigh Defense's Xtreme Defense bullet technology, this round pairs modern bullet design with the mild, manageable recoil of a subsonic 38 load. The 100-grain solid copper construction penetrates deep while the optimized nose flute creates a permanent wound cavity that performs consistently, even through common barriers. You get 245 foot-pounds of muzzle energy delivered at 1050 fps, which keeps follow-up shots fast and accurate.
Wilson Combat's 38 Special +P Load Development
Wilson Combat manufactures their ammunition on professional-grade industrial equipment, with every round hand-inspected and packaged for quality assurance. They source virgin US-made brass and premium components, refusing to cut corners. The result is ammunition that's built to the same exacting standards their custom firearms are known for. Whether you're running this through a snubbie revolver for carry or a full-frame gun for home defense, the loads deliver consistent velocity and shot-to-shot reliability that puts them a notch above standard factory offerings.
Performance with Lehigh Defense XD Bullets
The Xtreme Defense bullet offers something different from traditional hollow points. The solid copper design means it won't fragment or lose petals, maintaining integrity through clothing, drywall, or automotive glass. The calibrated nose flute controls expansion to around 18 inches of penetration in testing, staying within the practical range for effective stopping without over-penetrating. Brass casings are reloadable if you want to reload, and the non-corrosive boxer primer setup makes that process straightforward. Each box contains 20 rounds, making it practical for training, carrying, or keeping on hand for peace of mind.
Key Specifications
- Caliber: .38 Special +P
- Bullet Weight: 100 grains
- Bullet Type: Lehigh Defense Xtreme Defense Solid Copper
- Muzzle Velocity: 1050 fps
- Muzzle Energy: 245 ft-lbs
- Case Material: Brass
- Primer: Boxer
- Rounds Per Box: 20
- Boxes Per Case: 10
- Manufacturer: Wilson Combat
- Manufacturer Part Number: LA38SP100XD
- UPC: 810129401813
- Finish: Brass with Nickel Plating
What’s Included
- 20 rounds of Wilson Combat 38 Special +P ammunition
- Cardboard box packaging
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Lehigh Defense XD bullet different from other defensive 38 Special ammo?
The Xtreme Defense bullet is solid copper construction rather than traditional hollow point, which means it maintains integrity through barriers while still expanding reliably. The optimized nose flute controls penetration depth and creates consistent wound cavities. Lead-free construction also appeals to shooters looking to minimize exposure at indoor ranges.
Will this 38 Special +P load work reliably in compact snubbie revolvers?
Yes, but be prepared for it. At 100 grains and 1050 fps, this is a notably stiffer load than standard pressure 38 ammunition. Smaller frames will experience more recoil and muzzle flash, which isn't a malfunction issue but rather something to practice with. Larger frame revolvers handle it more comfortably. Test a box through your specific gun before carrying it.
Is the brass reloadable?
Yes. The ammunition comes in boxer-primed, non-corrosive brass cases that are suitable for reloading after firing. The brass quality is consistent with Wilson Combat's overall component standards, which means it holds up to multiple reloads if you choose to reload your fired brass.
How does the 1050 fps subsonic velocity affect performance compared to faster 38 loads?
The subsonic velocity keeps recoil manageable and pairs well with the lightweight bullet design. While some higher-velocity 38 Special +P loads exist, the Lehigh Defense XD bullet's design is optimized to work at this velocity range, expanding and penetrating consistently without the added muzzle blast and recoil of faster ammunition.





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