If it is only listed as .38 Special (spl), use only that ammo. If it is .38 S&W special, use only that ammo. Don't try to mix them. The diameters are not the same. If you still cannot determine the actual cartridge caliber, take it to a gunsmith and have them identify it for you.
A firearm chambered to fire 38 special ammunition
Never fire ammunition in your weapon that it is not chambered for.
No, you cannot fire .38 Super ammunition in a .38 Special firearm. The .38 Super cartridge is longer and has a different case design than the .38 Special, which can lead to dangerous misfires or damage to the firearm. Always use the specific ammunition type recommended by the manufacturer for safety and optimal performance.
A pistol rated to fire .38 +P ammunition is still going to be a .38 Special pistol, and can use regular .38 Special ammunition. .357 Magnum revolvers are also capable of chambering and firing .38 Special loads - regular, +P, and +P+ included.
No, the .357 and .38 Special ammunition are not interchangeable with other types of ammunition.
Yes, you can shoot .38 Special ammunition in a .357 revolver.
No, a Taurus 38 Special cannot shoot 357 ammunition.
.38 special
Yes, a .357 Magnum revolver can shoot .38 Special ammunition.
Yes, a .357 Magnum firearm can shoot .38 Special ammunition.
Yes.
Yes, you can shoot .38 Special ammunition out of a .357 Magnum revolver. The .357 Magnum revolver is designed to also shoot .38 Special ammunition, as the .38 Special cartridge is shorter than the .357 Magnum cartridge.