[Ursus arctos horribilis]

Calibers are misleading as to bore diameter. 38 calibers are a varied lot, a 38 Smith and Wesson is a .360 bullet diameter and was for weaker top break revolvers. A 38 Special is a .357 bullet diameter, the same as a 357 magnum.

The 380 ACP, (automatic cartridge pistol) is .355 bullet diameter and known in various European countries as the 9mm Short, 9mm Kurz, 9mm Breve, or 9mm Corto to differentiate it from the longer and more powerful 9mm Parabellum, also called the 9mm Luger.

As an aside, the 9mm Parbellum came out in 1902 and today is 101 years old. The venerable .45 ACP invented by John Browning was chambered for the Colt 1911 in that same year and is now 92 years old, it remains the preference of millions today and is still going strong. I think my old (Remington Rand )19111A1 made in 1943, and my constant companion for many years is the greatest combat hand gun ever made. It's form and function is timeless, once mastered, the .45 ACP 1911 is a true friend indeed

[oyez]

Have you ever owned or fired the Rock Island 1911 that is currently avalible for ~$350? I've heard conflicting opinions. Some say it jambs. Other say its a good way to own a 1911 and not spend a grand.