Regular vs Auto Pistol expander plugs

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I’m looking for an expander for .38 Special Wadcutters sized .360.

From what I’ve read, dimensions should be +.002/-.002, but the only plug that size says “Auto Pistol”.  Is that suitable for .38 Special?  What’s the difference between regular and auto pistol plugs?

Thanks!

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[Mike B.Moderator]

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You might want to possibly look at the following forum strings.

https://noebulletmolds.com/smf/index.php?topic=2773.0

https://noebulletmolds.com/smf/index.php?topic=1795.0

Maybe you also possibly missed the .360 dia tapered expander on the right just above the expander that you missed.

https://noebulletmolds.com/site/shop/expanders/expander-plug-pistol/360-x-356-p-exp-plug/

https://noebulletmolds.com/site/product-category/expanders/expander-plug-pistol/

I tend to believe that it was spelled out in one of the forum historical strings…

A quick search did not tend to find that historical difference explanation.

I’ll let the expander experts tell you the difference, between the auto and std expanders… should that posting contributor read your request and answer your question.

Personally the different expanders would most probably technically benefit one coming to purchase expanders if the individual expanders had a tiny bit more dimensional intel.

Take Care, & Stay Safe…

[williakw]

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I agree with +.002/-.002.  -.001 should also be okay.  Based on my selection of Luger and 38 Special expanders, the AP expanders provide a shorter bullet retention surface, suitable for the 9 mm Luger and 380.  The PEP series has a bullet retention length of approximately .23 inch (distance from end to +.004 step minus pilot radius).  The PEPAP series measurement is .13 inch.  NOE doesn’t show a pistol expander in exactly the size you need.  It looks like the best choice is PEPAP-362×358 if you don’t mind the short expander or PEP-360×356 if you don’t mind the .002 undersized expander. 
Although I have no experience with the rifle expanders, I note NOE also has REP-362×358 that might be a worthy alternative.  It seems reasonable to think they are at least as long as the PEP series.  I suggest you call to ask if this is a reasonable course of action.  If you do end up purchasing one, please post the bullet retention length. 

[Author]

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