.38 Short Colt Cowboy

The .38 Short Colt is the Old West’s little underdog, the cartridge equivalent of a scrappy chihuahua in a saloon full of Great Danes. Originally designed for black powder revolvers, it was compact, easy to carry, and just enough to settle disputes over poker games gone wrong. Sure, it wasn’t the “showstopper” like the .45 Colt or .44-40, but the .38 Short Colt had its place—usually in the pocket of a gambler, barkeep, or a stagecoach guard who believed in discretion over destruction. Legend has it, one hapless outlaw mocked a sheriff for carrying a revolver chambered in .38 Short Colt. “What’re you gonna do with that, swat flies?” he sneered. Moments later, the sheriff proved the round’s worth by shooting the cigar clean out of the outlaw’s mouth. Justice was served, and the .38 Short Colt earned a little more respect. Today, cowboy action shooters still enjoy the .38 Short Colt for its mild recoil and vintage charm. And if you want to experience this classic cartridge at its best, Cowboy Choice Ammunition is the way to go. Our hand-loaded rounds with Chey-Cast bullets deliver accuracy and reliability sharper than a saloon girl’s side-eye. Go ahead, shoot like a legend—with style!