Ammunition loaded to higher than normal pressure.
You can purchase high-quality .38 Special +P ammunition, specifically the Buffalo Bore Ammunition .38 Special Short Barrel 110 Grain Barnes TAC-XP Hollow Point (Lead-Free), from reputable retailers. to explore and purchase this premium ammunition for your shooting needs.
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.
+p means an increase in barrel pressure behind the bullet, or a hotter(faster) load.
No.
yes
1. You will have to call S&W for a correct answer 2. Plus P means higher than normal pressure ammunition. "Other than 38 plus P" could mean another caliber, or normal pressure ammunition. The caliber should always match the revolver you are shooting. Normal pressure ammunition of the proper caliber can always be used in a firearm, unless the firearm is a machine gun which requires higher pressure ammunition to operate consistently.
What does the owner's manual say?
1. Yes. I obtained this information by emailing Smith & Wesson directly. 2. The model 15 is a K frame .38 special revolver. The 3 suffix means third change. All K frame models from the first change onwards are rated for plus P ammunition. As are N frame revolvers and L frame. The plus P ammunition does reduce average service life as you might expect.
Depends on how old the revolver is.
You will need to contact Ruger.
23.15 lbs, plus ammunition.