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.
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.
.38 special
Yes.
NEVER FIRE AMMUNITION IN A WEAPON NOT DESIGNED FOR IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! If you have ANY doubts, have it examined by a competent gunsmith. <><><> No- two different cartridges.
A type of handgun ammunition.
A type of handgun ammunition.
yes
NEVER FIRE OR ATTEMPT TO FIRE AMMUNITION IN A WEAPON NOT DESIGNED FOR THAT AMMUNITION!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Danger,danger, danger
.357
DO NOT ATTEMPT TO FIRE ANY OTHER AMMUNITION IN A WEAPON THAT IT IS NOT DESINGED FOR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Danger, Danger, Danger