Was 38spl ever as cheap as 9mm or 40?

[mike100]

Back in the 70's when 38 spl was the preferred security and police round of the day, was it a bargain like 9mm and 40 is now? The "What gun do you have the most rounds through" thread made me think about the economics of caliber popularity.

Now that I reload, 38 spl is an easy choice since it reloads pretty cheaply and will treat my current revolver-itis condition.

I'm going to guess that 357 mag has always been expensive.

[Fjold]

Yes, 38 special ammo used to be the cheapest ammunition that you could buy. I used to buy professionally reloaded 38 special wadcutters for $4/box and if I turned in my old brass they were $3/box.