[4] One unusual design element of this cartridge is that factory ammunition was loaded with a different case profile than the standard chamber for this cartridge, factory ammunition having a much longer neck than the standard chamber.

Most reloading dies are designed to size fired brass to the chamber specification rather than that of the original factory ammunition case profile.

Several single-action revolvers have recently been chambered for this cartridge, including the Ruger Vaquero.

Though introduced as an "all-around" cartridge, traditional sources suggest the .38–40 performs inadequately on deer.

[6] A limited number of hunting loads are available commercially, which produce about 25% more muzzle energy than the more common target ammunition.