No. The .38 S&W is a different cartridge from the .38 Special. Basically, the .38 S&W is shorter, fatter, and has less energy. It will not chamber in a gun meant for .38 Special.
Given the wide variety of factors that you have failed to list, I would not try to engage a target out beyond 25' with a .38 revolver. IF I had loaded some 158gr rounds, AND I was shooting it through...