Description
If you're carrying a 38 Special and want a load that performs without beating you up, the DT Tactical from Double Tap hits the mark. This is a defensive round built around a 110-grain Barnes TAC-XP all-copper hollow point, and it's engineered to handle the job while staying manageable in a snub-nose revolver.
What Makes the DT Tactical Stand Out
The lightweight 110-grain bullet is part of what makes this load special. It runs at around 1200 fps from typical barrel lengths, delivering approximately 350 ft-lbs of muzzle energy. That might not sound extreme on paper, but the ballistic gelatin tests tell the real story: this round consistently penetrates to about 13 inches with solid expansion. Real-world field testing has shown that it handles windshield glass and common barriers without losing those characteristics, which matters if you ever have to fire through intermediate obstacles.
Built for the Revolver Carry Game
Duration in the cylinder matters when you're dealing with snub-nose carry guns, and Double Tap understood the assignment here. The load runs clean with minimal muzzle flash, a real advantage if you're using this gun in a low-light defensive scenario. Recoil is noticeably softer than heavier 125 or 158-grain alternatives without sacrificing terminal performance. The all-copper construction is lead-free, so you can run these at indoor ranges without concern, and you're not leaving lead residue all over your gun.
The Tactical Approach
Double Tap's philosophy with the DT Tactical is controlled aggression. The Barnes bullet design creates a wide crush cavity while the jacket and core stay together through barriers. You get the penetration you need without the overpenetration problems that can come with smaller, lighter defensive loads. This works especially well out of short barrels where velocity is already compromised compared to longer guns.
Key Specifications
- Caliber: .38 Special +P
- Bullet Weight: 110 grains
- Bullet Type: Barnes TAC-XP all-copper hollow point
- Muzzle Velocity: 1200 fps (from typical barrel lengths)
- Muzzle Energy: 351 ft-lbs
- Ballistic Gelatin Penetration: Approximately 13 inches
- Case Material: Brass
- Primer Type: Centerfire
- Lead-Free: Yes
- Rounds Per Box: 20
- Manufacturer: Double Tap Ammunition
- Manufacturer Part Number: 38SP110X
- UPC: 091037004628
What’s Included
- 20 rounds of Double Tap DT Tactical 38 Special +P ammunition
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this 38 Special +P safe for my revolver?
The +P designation means this load runs at higher pressure than standard 38 Special. Make sure your revolver is rated for +P ammunition before using it. Modern revolvers almost always are, but some older guns aren't. Check your owner's manual or contact the manufacturer if you're unsure. If your gun is +P rated, you're good to go.
How does the DT Tactical perform from a snub-nose barrel?
This load was designed with snub-nose guns in mind. The 110-grain bullet helps offset velocity loss from short barrels, and the Barnes hollow point design still delivers expansion even at reduced velocities. Out of a 2-inch barrel, you'll see lower fps than factory numbers list, but the round still performs its job within defensive distances.
Why choose lead-free ammunition?
Lead-free rounds are mandatory at many indoor ranges and eliminate lead exposure for you and your gun. The all-copper construction also runs cleaner. If you practice regularly indoors, this matters both for range regulations and for your health.
How does this round compare to standard pressure 38 Special?
The +P designation gives you more velocity and energy compared to standard 38 loads, which translates to better expansion performance, especially from short barrels. You'll feel more recoil than standard pressure, but the DT Tactical is designed to minimize that while keeping the performance benefit.




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