If you want or need a .38 Special load that expands reliably, just use the old FBI load, the +P 158 grain LSWCHP.
6.5 grains of AA#5 will barely squeak them into the +P category. But I like them with 7 grains of AA#5 in Model 10s.
But 7 grains is more than the lawyered down load data calls for in .38 special with 158s. I do it anyway. K frames don't mind.
