Old .38-55s were really .38s. However, modern .38s are really .375s. This difference causes fits with folks that buy single shots from the 19th century, but that's the way it is. So, your friend may have seen it as a bit bigger than a modern .38 which could be exactly right for a vintage 38.

Also, the modern .38-55 uses shorter brass than the original. There are a few sources (maybe only 2) of .38-55 brass in original length if you need it.

My guess is that you have a vintage .38-55 and your friend was expecting a .38-55 with modern dimensions.

The ASSRA forums are a good place for info on this if you pursue it.

Brent

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BrentD, (Professor - just for Stan)
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