I imagine a lot of bullets would fail the 'Sand Test'

by FOG, Wednesday, July 10, 2013, 19:14 (4147 days ago) @ Scott Ambler

Putting cardboard in front of it most likely doesn't 'help', and the chances of plugging the HP probably expand accordingly. (Pun intended − LOL)

The 'Water Test' presents a different challenge. It's actually a pretty 'hard' target (assuming the volume is sufficient), and most expanding bullets will show 'dramatic' results in water (assuming sufficient velocity).

In snub .38s, I prefer the 'Chicago Load' (AKA, 'FBI Load'), which of course is a 158-gr LSWCHP driven to +P velocity.

In the past, I have primarily used Federal-brand, but I now use Buffalo Bore (standard pressure). The Buffalo Bore version is gas-checked to minimize leading and otherwise "very soft" to promote expansion.

I don't have the facilites to properly test its performance, but the 'street record' of this type of load is pretty well established, and Buffalo Bore has a reputation for producing quality ammunition.

HTH

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