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Hornady

Hornady Custom .38 Special XTP/JHP 158 Grain 25 Rounds

Our editorial team reviews specifications, product data, and field-use information to keep pages accurate.

Hornady Custom

XTP/JHP bullet design

158 Grain

Load for .38 Special firearms

Packaged 25-round

Box

Xtp Hollow

Point is described as expanding

Deep Terminal

Penetration

$28.99
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SKU: WX2*0058253

Overview

Built for shooters who want a .38 Special load centered on terminal performance, this Hornady Custom offering pairs a 158-grain XTP/JHP bullet with a focus on controlled expansion and deep penetration. It is suited for handgun use where precise shot placement and dependable bullet behavior matter. The 25-round box format makes it practical for range sessions, load testing, or keeping a compact supply on hand. Its purpose is straightforward: a serious defensive-style load for those who want a hollow point designed around performance at impact.

Why Hunters Choose the Hornady

158-grain .38

Special load offers a substantial

Xtp Hollow

Point design is described for

Expands 1.5

Times original diameter for deep

Packaged 25-round

Box for range or field

Hornady Custom

Line is presented as a

Key Features

  • Hornady Custom .38 Special ammunition with XTP/JHP bullet design
  • 158 grain load for .38 Special firearms
  • Packaged in a 25-round box
  • XTP hollow point is described as expanding to 1.5 times original diameter
  • Designed for deep terminal penetration
  • Marketed for extreme terminal performance and accuracy

Best Used For

  • Hunters wanting .38 Special ammunition with an XTP hollow point for controlled expansion
  • Shooters prioritizing accurate revolver loads for range practice and field carry
  • Users needing a 158-grain .38 Special option for deep terminal penetration
  • Those seeking a compact 25-round box for limited-use carry or testing

Specifications

Bullet TypeXTP/JHP
Bullet Weight158 Grain
Caliber.38 Special
Rounds25
Terminal Performance ClaimExpands to 1.5 times the original diameter

Pros

  • 158-grain .38 Special load offers a substantial bullet weight for the caliber.
  • XTP hollow point design is described for controlled expansion.
  • Expands to 1.5 times original diameter for deep terminal penetration.
  • Packaged in a 25-round box for range or field use.
  • Hornady Custom line is presented as a precision-oriented ammunition option.

Considerations & Trade-offs

  • This is a .38 Special load, so it is limited to firearms chambered for that cartridge and is not a general-purpose option across larger revolver calibers.
  • The 158 grain XTP/JHP design is oriented toward terminal performance, which may be more specialized than a simple practice or target load.
  • The product is sold in a 25-round box, so it is a relatively small quantity if you are stocking up for extended range time or field use.

Suggested Comparisons

  • .38 Special ammunition
  • Other revolver ammunition
  • Hunting handgun ammunition
  • Self-defense handgun ammunition

Suggested Accessories

  • Ammunition storage box
  • Hearing protection
  • Cleaning kit
  • Range bag

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of ammunition is this Hornady Custom load?

It is Hornady Custom .38 Special ammunition with an XTP/JHP 158 grain bullet, sold in a 25-round box.

What does XTP mean in the product description?

The description says XTP stands for eXtreme Terminal Performance.

What terminal performance claim is made for this bullet?

The description states that the XTP hollow point expands to 1.5 times the original diameter for deep terminal penetration.

How many rounds come in the box?

This product is listed as 25 rounds.

Is there any verified information here about bullet construction beyond XTP/JHP?

No. The provided data only identifies it as XTP/JHP and does not include additional verified construction details.