Civil War Bullett?

[agentbud]

Civil War Bullet?

I found this in a field where a Civil War battle took place. We found several other minie balls and musket balls but I couldn't figure this one out. Based on some articles i read, it sounds like it might be an Enfield or what some call a smooth-sided Pritchett. But I am confused on why it is red in color. It appears to have a plug of some type in the bottom cavity but i didn't want to dig into it. I forgot to take measurements but I'd guess it's probably about 5/8" long and maybe a little less than 3/8" diameter at the base. I can take exact measurements when I get home if that will help. Any idea what this is and why it is red?

 

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[gunsil]

It's a modern copper jacket pistol bullet. The copper jacket is why it is red on the outside. A proper measurement of the diameter will tell the exact caliber.

 

[fyrffytr1]

That is a modern copper jacketed bullet. Precise measurements will help but I am guessing it is a 38 cal.

 

[BosnMate]

I'm not familiar with FMJ .38's, I'd bet .45. Modern at any rate, at least it dates back to 1911 and is still in use today if it's a .45.

 

[Charlie P. (NY)]

The U.S. Military used (maybe still uses?) .38 Special FMJ. Air Cops at airbases were issued .38s (S&W Model 10's).

Also, guys like me who shoot cheap surplus ammo use .38 Spl FMJ

 

[Old Dude]

At first, I thought you had stolen one of my pics!
Mine was identified as modern as well.

 

[fyrffytr1]

I'm not familiar with FMJ .38's, I'd bet .45. Modern at any rate, at least it dates back to 1911 and is still in use today if it's a .45. View attachment 950591

Bosun,
I was going on the measurements the OP gave. 3/8" converts to .369 caliber so I went with 38. I had not heard of a 38 fmj either until Charlie replied.

 

[Hawkeye35]

Could easily be a 9mm which is .355" and fmjs are extremely common in that caliber. Besides, the 3/8 was an estimation.

 

[fyrffytr1]

Could easily be a 9mm which is .355" and fmjs are extremely common in that caliber. Besides, the 3/8 was an estimation.

And that is why precise measurements are needed to properly ID an artifact.