327 Federal

[FLHTC]

Is anyone shooting this? It was the buzz word about two years ago but you hardly hear it mentioned any more. I looked for brass and it's not even being produced however, Lipsey's is introducing a Single Seven chambered in the cartridge. I wonder how anyone plans on shooting it?

[JSnover]

I liked the idea but there were so few bullet choices, it just didn't seem useful for too many things.

[FLHTC]

If you're talking about cast, the right alloy can make any 311 compatible. As long as there is a 32 H&R, there will be bullets and boolits a plenty.

[Outpost75]

If you are shooting cast, I see little or no advantage to the .327 over the H&R Mag.

[Green Frog]

The 327 Fed Mag is a handloader's dream, but don't look for a lot of variety in factory ammo... to the industry it is the proverbial red-headed stepchild. I understand that Ruger is about to release a seven shot revolver on their Single Six platform as one of the Lipsey Special series of guns. They formerly made a relative few 8-shot stainless Blackhawks and some double actions as well. S&W is releasing a fairly small number of j-frame target versions of the 327, but they are harder to find than a Democrat at a pro-gun rally.

As for the ammo, after I got my Blackhawk 8-shooter and got going on my custom K-frame stainless ("Project 616") I ordered some Federal primed brass from Freedom Arms (who also makes/made 327 FMs as does/did Taurus) and directly from Starline when they had a batch coming out. Bullets? I've got moulds from 90-125 grains in WC & SWC configurations and even got a 110 grain HPSWC from MP recently. I can shoot anything from cat sneeze target loads to combat/hunting loads that equal the performance of the small, fast 38+P rounds that proved so effective.

In short, it's a specialist's caliber and only a limited market exists for it. In this days of plastic wonder-nines, the pool of potential customers is pretty small. More's the pity because it is a great cartridge with about unlimited potential.

Froggie

[FLHTC]

If you are shooting cast, I see little or no advantage to the .327 over the H&R Mag.

Do you own it, or are you simply giving your opinion based on not wanting to own it?

[FLHTC]

The 327 Fed Mag is a handloader's dream, but don't look for a lot of variety in factory ammo... to the industry it is the proverbial red-headed stepchild. I understand that Ruger is about to release a seven shot revolver on their Single Six platform as one of the Lipsey Special series of guns. They formerly made a relative few 8-shot stainless Blackhawks and some double actions as well. S&W is releasing a fairly small number of j-frame target versions of the 327, but they are harder to find than a Democrat at a pro-gun rally.

As for the ammo, after I got my Blackhawk 8-shooter and got going on my custom K-frame stainless ("Project 616") I ordered some Federal primed brass from Freedom Arms (who also makes/made 327 FMs as does/did Taurus) and directly from Starline when they had a batch coming out. Bullets? I've got moulds from 90-125 grains in WC & SWC configurations and even got a 110 grain HPSWC from MP recently. I can shoot anything from cat sneeze target loads to combat/hunting loads that equal the performance of the small, fast 38+P rounds that proved so effective.

In short, it's a specialist's caliber and only a limited market exists for it. In this days of plastic wonder-nines, the pool of potential customers is pretty small. More's the pity because it is a great cartridge with about unlimited potential.

Froggie

My Blackhawk loves 123 grain Hornady V-Max and Speer Hot-Cor. You are right about it's potential

[Guesser]

I'm with Greenfrog on the 327. It is a wonder to work with. I had a Lyman 311316 that cast big, I size to .313 and GC. Load it and shoot it, mild, mid, or hot! It is a dream, accurate and hard hitting. jack rabbits at 150 yards are not safe. I've owned 3 revolvers chambered for 327, sold one so now only 2. I got my first one in 2009.

[Outpost75]

Do you own it, or are you simply giving your opinion based on not wanting to own it?

I use the .32H&R Mag extensively in the Ruger Single Six, a Marlin 1894CB and a 4 lb. single-shot rook rifle and there is no better small game and trail gun round. It does everything that the .32-20 does, but more accurately, with an efficient, well designed, modern case. Higher velocity is OK for varmint shooting, but is not wanted for edible game due to excessive meat destruction. I don't load jacketed bullets, but only flatnosed, cast lead from 115-130 grains. No gascheck needed. My loads do about 1200 fps, and I find them entirely adequate.

[JSH]

I have a buckeye in 32-20/32 mag. It is over kill for the cartridge for sure. Everyone talks about the 38 in place of the .22rf. The 32's make more sense to me. I also have molds from 85-140 grains for the 32's. I have read enough a out the 327 as of late that I have one of the 7 shots on order.
The 32-20 is a pet of mine. In modern guns it doesn't know how old it is. As mentioned above the 327 is a dang good mid range cartridge that takes the place of the 32-20 to a point. Now, if we could get them to make a lever gun in 327 that would feed a 130 grain range cast bullet that would make a nice rig.
I have plans on using my blackhawk 32-20 and the 140 for a white tail this fall. If there are any stupid ones left that get to 100 yards or inside that, there will be meat hanging on the pole.
Jeff

[Rusty W]

I have a Blackhawk and am in line for a Single Seven when they hit the market, around Oct. I've heard. At the time I purchased the Blackhawk factory ammo was all that was available. I shot it for the brass and started loading for it. Used 85gr xtp & 100gr xtp as that's all that was local on the shelf for reloading. Seen over 1600fps over the chrono w/the 85gr & a little over 1500 w/the 100gr. I run about 1400 for accuracy w/the cast boolets from the 313640 from NOE, gas checks hold a little edge in accuracy over plain base for me. Haven't had a chance to run the swc through it's paces yet, maybe this fall when it coos off some, around October. I have found brass from Freedom Arms & got a few when Starline made a run, I'm set for awhile. Some day I'll upgrade to a actual camera instead of a cheap cell phone for pics.
http://i269.photobucket.com/albums/jj51/RWoolever/327%20Blackhawk/01-15-11_1616.jpg
(http://s269.photobucket.com/user/RWoolever/media/327%20Blackhawk/01-15-11_1616.jpg.html)http://i269.photobucket.com/albums/jj51/RWoolever/327%20Blackhawk/01-25-11_1122.jpg (http://s269.photobucket.com/user/RWoolever/media/327%20Blackhawk/01-25-11_1122.jpg.html)
http://i269.photobucket.com/albums/jj51/RWoolever/327%20Blackhawk/140203_0001_zps8b37d9c9.jpg (http://s269.photobucket.com/user/RWoolever/media/327%20Blackhawk/140203_0001_zps8b37d9c9.jpg.html)

[FLHTC]

I wouldn't hesitate to take my 327 deer hunting either. I have a Buckeye as well and the cylinder length started me shooting rifle bullets loaded in the 32-20's. I shoot the 311316, 313445, 311359 and am looking for a nice 130-140 grain gas check design. Was this 313640 a Ranch dog mold and who hollow pointed it?

[stu1ritter]

If you are shooting cast, I see little or no advantage to the .327 over the H&R Mag.

Interesting. The H&R runs a max SAAMI pressure of right at 22,000 psi and the 327 Federal around 44,000 psi WITH THE SAME WEIGHT BULLETS.
Perhaps some ballistics study might point out the advantage of doubling the chamber pressure. When you are casting your own, BHN of 10-14 on
the H&R and gas check the 327 for max loads. The 327 offers ultimate flexibility and as others have mentioned, up to .38 Special +P power levels.

Stu

[Gus Youmans]

It is a great cartridge for bullet casters and reloaders that has been orphaned by the ammo manufacturers due to the crazy demand for ammo and components the last few years. I have developed accurate loads for the .32 S&W Long, .32 H&R Magnum and .327 Federal Magnum, which gives guns that chamber the .327 a great deal of versatility. The shorter cartridges seem to be at no accuracy disadvantage in the longer cylinders, as one of the most accurate loads in three .327s is a 98 grain RCBS loaded in .32 S&W Long brass over 2.6 grains of Bullseye. On the other end of the spectrum, a 100 grain Hornady JHP pushed by a max charge of H110 will shoot honest one inch groups at 25 yards from my Ransom rest. Brass is occasionally available from Starline in .32 S&W Long, .32 H&R Magnum and .327 Federal and factory ammo can be had in my local gun store in all three cartridges.

I have had good luck with the 98 grain RCBS SWC mold and an Accurate 105 grains SWC mold . I have also cast some bullets from the 90 grain Lee tumble lube mold but found that the other two molds cast easier, so do not use it anymore.

My first .327 purchase was a SP101 for my younger daughter who is very recoil-shy. We developed light .32 S&W Long loads for her to practice with and develop sound fundamentals. For serious ammo she uses the Federal 115 grains JHP. I became such fan of the cartridge that a month later I bought a GP100 and later found another used SP101 for myself. I have one of the new Ruger Single Sevens on order through my local gun store and have an option to purchase a second in a different barrel length if my dealer can get it. I think it will be a great walking-around gun.

Gus Youmans

[FLHTC]

You're right Stu. The math can only be interpreted one way but many folks don't delve into ballistics when it comes to handgun rounds. I was a fan of the 32 H&R since it first appeared and the 327 is simply an extension, but a much more powerful one.

[contender1]

To those who do not own or have tried a 327,,, they will not understand it. But those of us who do shoot them, load for them, and have spent time with them,,, we'll gleefully embrace more of them!

[Sheriff]

To those who do not own or have tried a 327,,, they will not understand it. But those of us who do shoot them, load for them, and have spent time with them,,, we'll gleefully embrace more of them!

Yessir, for a fact.......:bigsmyl2:

[stu1ritter]

I wish I could buy a few more tomorrow.
Stu

[9.3X62AL]

I am greatly enamored of the 32 H&R Magnum, and have had at least one example of this caliber on board since about 1985. I think highly of the idea/concept of the 327 Federal, but given its lukewarm support by the ammo and components industry I have hesitated to get involved with the caliber. Why Ruger limited the GP-100 barrel length to 4.25" is a shame--a 6" barreled variant would have been ordered immediately. The gunmakers seem confused about the caliber's place......S&W relegates it to belly-gun status, Ruger's offerings to date seem half-hearted. The Single-Seven is a step in the right direction, but given a 44K PSI SAAMI rating I see a pressure revision coming much like that given the 357/41/44 Magnums in the 1990s......down to 36K PSI to make the lawyers happy.

Having 32 S&W Long--32 H&R Mag--32/20 WCF--and a 30 Carbine Blackhawk on staff presently, I don't see a "need" for the 327 Federal to stoke my mid-caliber passions given the platforms it has been offered in to date. A K- or L-frame S&W or GP-100 Ruger with 6" barrel......that will prompt a purchase and a hunt for casings. Until then, I'm good.

[stu1ritter]

9.3X62AL, I agree with you. I now have two and am reloading for the caliber with great enjoyment. I haven't broached the upper limits yet, but I'm sure I'll get there fast enough. Actually, I haven't reloaded any 32 S&W Long since I received my first 32 H&R. I'm also on the lookout for a 32-20 and have thought of a 32-20 cylinder for my 16-4 (if that is feasible). Oh well, this day dreaming just continues.
Stu

[lbaize3]

What contender1 said +1.... I will have one of the single seven pistols ordered as this weekend.

I have the buckeye in 32-20 & 32 mag, the eight shot 327 blackhawk, two 32-20 uberti 1873 clones, a custom contender rifle in 32-20, a taurus 327 six shot snubnose, two marlin 1894 32-20s and a winchester 32-20. My go to for power and accuracy is the 327 mag with 113 grain cast boolits with gas checks and a very healthy dose of Accurate #9. But for sheer enjoyment and excellent accuracy the same boolit with 4 grains of red dot makes all of my 32-20s the most fired weapons I own. And the same boolit with a 3 grain load of red dot in the 32 H&R gives me excellent accuracy and a fun time at the shooting range. Would not trade any of them for the world.....even if my wife would let me....

[rststeve]

I have loaded for the 327 and 32 H&R mag for about 8 years now this is my go to caliber for a trail gun in sp101. I also own the Gp100 great load development gun LoL. I do prefer to shoot the Sp101 though. Ruger marketed the round as self defense cartridge and then the first gunit is introduced in is a huge 8 shot Blackhawk this was the start of the fall of the cartridge. To make a long story short if you have not owned and loaded for the Fed 327 you have no idea what you are missing and now with the prices of the Sp101 bouncing off a 1,000$ I doubt many of you will ever purchase one. Good day

[FLHTC]

I have loaded for the 327 and 32 H&R mag for about 8 years now this is my go to caliber for a trail gun in sp101. I also own the Gp100 great load development gun LoL. I do prefer to shoot the Sp101 though. Ruger marketed the round as self defense cartridge and then the first gunit is introduced in is a huge 8 shot Blackhawk this was the start of the fall of the cartridge. To make a long story short if you have not owned and loaded for the Fed 327 you have no idea what you are missing and now with the prices of the Sp101 bouncing off a 1,000$ I doubt many of you will ever purchase one. Good day

Actually the SP101 was the first gun released by Ruger in the 327 Federal but the cylinder problems soon stopped production of the SP101 and opened the door for the Blackhawk. Ruger never marketed the cartridge as anything other than a 32 that neared 357 magunm ballistics. It was the other companies who attempted to follow Ruger's success history and market their own version of the compact revolver in that cartridge, advertising it as the perfect answer to a self defense weapon. Collectively, the lack of sales killed it but not because it appeared in a Blackhawk.

[Whit Spurzon]

I too am "the list" to get a Single Seven. I'm also of the opinion that it is a great "trail gun" ideal for "woods loafing."

As Skeeter defined it:

My idea of a trail gun is a handgun that, with 50 rounds of ammunition, will make a package small and light enough that you are unaware of its presence until you need it. It adds practically nothing to the contents of a backpack or to the saddlebags of horseman or cyclist. Worn in a neat holster on the trouser belt, it lies flat and doesn’t sag your pants. It also looks at home in a fishing box.

My 5.5" blued 32 Single Six weighs 31.4 ounces on my scale and a box of 50 weighs in at less than 22 ounces. Since acquiring it I've found it to be a delight to shoot, carry and hunt with. It does everything my 22 Single Six does only better, plus with a full load of Lil'Gun it gets within 100 fps of what my SP101 gets with factory 327 ammo.

About the only downsides I see to the new Single Seven is that it weighs more, and possibly they won't make enough of em... I'd feel adequately armed under most circumstances I can imagine myself in with the new Single Seven. Plus the economy of the cartridge is sure to make it a frequent visitor to the range.

I've got my fingers crossed that a 5.5" comes my way.

[williamwaco]

I have a Ruger GP 100 and I absolutely love it.

If I could have it in an SP 101 with a 6 inch barrel, I would swap two other handguns for it.

[jrayborn]

Of all the cartridges I load regularly, and there are many, the .327 Fed Mag is my favorite. I have a single sevin on order :)

I have molds for 90-140 grain boolits. If you need it done, the .327 can do it. My GP and SP both shoot like a laser. I've never seen anything shoot like them.

Have I mentioned I love the .327?

[Green Frog]

9.3X62AL & stu1ritter,

If I had been wise enough to hold on to the Buckeye Spl 32 combo Blackhawk and the 6" Model 16-4 I bought when they came out then foolishly sold all too soon after, I might not have been so eager to get my two 327s, but since I did, it would have been foolish to settle (especially on the custom-built S&W) for anything less than fullest performance potential. Do I always shoot them with ground stomping, fire breathing loads? Of course not... but I CAN!!​ :mrgreen:

I have often repeated my story about chatting with the famous Skeeter on what was probably his last public appearance. He was quite emphatic about the impressive performance available from the 32 H&R via reloading... but he was apparently at or near 327 FM pressure ranges when he was doing it! I can just about guarantee that if he were alive and writing today we'd be reading him singing the praises of the 327 FM. JMHO, of course, but if I were a betting man...

It's not the one thing that 327 does well that impresses me, it's the whole range of things that the 327 can potentially do well that impresses me. YMMV. ;)

Froggie

[9.3X62AL]

Froggie--

I can honestly say that my S&W Model 16-4 x 6" is one of the few firearms I own that I would never consider selling. I haven't gone totally nutzo pouring powder into 32 Mag cases, but have run Lyman #313631 to 1400 FPS. That is as much as I care to push that particular envelope, but doing so showed me that #313631's mediocre accuracy at 1000 FPS steadily improved as the velocity increased, and became tack-driving-good at 1250 FPS and stayed on board to 1400 FPS. Hornady GCs and 92/6/2 alloy, Alox/BW lube. Rated-R amount of WC-820.

I won't say I'll NEVER own a 327 Federal revolver, but the platform will need to be "All The Goodies"--barrel length, strength, and likely double-action in descending order of priority. A Colt Diamondback x 6" with V-spring lockwork in 327 would draw me like moth to flame.......dream on.

[Outpost75]

I find this thread interesting, but I really have no desire to carry a revolver afield that weighs more than about 1kg with 12cm barrel +/-. original .32 H&R Mag Single Six does what I want, handy revolver, with companion single-shot rifle about 4-1/2 lbs. or 2kg, capable of heads shots on small game at 50 yards with my best ammo. No wheels or pony needed to move about.

[FLHTC]

I find this thread interesting, but I really have no desire to carry a revolver afield that weighs more than about 1kg with 12cm barrel +/-. original .32 H&R Mag Single Six does what I want, handy revolver, with companion single-shot rifle about 4-1/2 lbs. or 2kg, capable of heads shots on small game at 50 yards with my best ammo. No wheels or pony needed to move about.

Well i've never worn a handgun while hunting, all the while wishing it was one centimeter shorter. That equates to a half inch. If that half inch is too troublesome to carry, how do you manage to keep your composure while carrying a rifle, and do it without wheels and ponies?
You summed it up, the 32 mag does what YOU want but there are others that simply want MORE, which is the benefit of owning the 327.
I wonder how T/C sold all those Super 14 barrels without recommending wheels and ponies? [smilie=l:

[Harry O]

9.3X62AL, I'm also on the lookout for a 32-20 and have thought of a 32-20 cylinder for my 16-4 (if that is feasible). Oh well, this day dreaming just continues.
Stu

Good choice. This is mine. It was a S&W NewModel 16 in .32 Magnum. It was rechambered to 32-20.

[FLHTC]

Good choice. This is mine. It was a S&W NewModel 16 in .32 Magnum. It was rechambered to 32-20.

I like that!!!!

[Dschuttig]

As to brass, grafs has starline .327 in stock now.

[snowwolfe]

I been looking for a fairly flat shooting, very accurate, mild recoiling revolver to use on small game and plan on giving the 327 a try. Hopefully I will be able to buy one of the Lipseys 7.5 inch models when they hit the street in a month or two.

[lbaize3]

Wow! Harry O that is a beautiful barbeque gun!

[OuchHot!]

I have never owned a .327, not because I didn't want one....it just didn't happen that I had money when "they" had guns. Now I have several .32HnR "Mag" and a S&W .32-20 and so on. I would like to jump on the Ruger. Is the 5.5" barrel going to have too much muzzle blast relative to the 7.5"? I shot a Blackhawk in .30 carbine and did not like the blast. It may all be a moot question as I am deef now but I would appreciate the opinions of this group.thanks!

[Harry O]

FLHTC and lbaize3:

The very first handgun I ever shot was a 32-20. It was my fathers Colt Police Positive Special, which I now own. I have always had a soft spot for 32-20's and spent many years looking for one with target quality and adjustable sights. I never found one. Then I ran across a gun like the one pictured above.

I already had a S&W Model 632 SuperKitGun (J-frame) in .32 Magnum, which is much better sized for the .32 Magnum caliber. (Some time later, I also got a Ruger SuperSingle Six in .32 Magnum which is correctly sized, too). The K-frame was too big for the .32 Magnum, in my opinion. I thought about getting it and having it rechambered to 32-20. After doing a little research at home, I found that it should work. I went back the next morning to buy it and the gun was already gone. The next time I ran across one, I grabbed it and didn't let go until I purchased it. That is the one pictured above.

It was rechambered to 32-20 by a nationally known gunsmith (although he is known for semiautos rather than revolvers). The chambers were a bit tight, one in particular. The reamer he used had been sharpened, perhaps poorly. I marked that chamber and just loaded 5-rounds for several years after that. I later ran into a different gunsmith that had a brand new, never been used 32-20 reamer and had him run it through all 6 chambers. It works perfect now. Cartridges drop into the chambers and drop out again after firing. The reamers did not fully clean up the old chambering, so it looks like it is a double bottleneck when it comes out. That has no affect on the accuracy, though.

My standard load for this one is 6.0gr of IMR4756 with a 100gr Hornady XTP or a Lyman 311316-GC. It is VERY accurate with both. I know that load is no where near .327 velocity, but it is comfortably more than factory .32 Magnum loads and is a nice delightful load to shoot. After it proved out, I put some custom grips on it and had S&W laser engrave it. It will never be sold.

I guess I never understood the .327 Magnum. I shot the 32-20, then went to the .32 Long (both loaded to hotter than factory) and successfully shot small game with both for many years. When the .32 Magnum came around, I quickly tried it out. It was a little hotter than some of my handloads and worked well when shooting small game for the pot. Once I got the Ruger SuperSingleSix, I loaded the .32 Magnum up to 8.5gr of 2400 with an 85gr Hornady XTP. It was totally useless for small game hunting. Very accurate, but there was nothing left once I shot a rabbit or squirrel. The .327 is loaded even hotter than that. It would be even less use for small game and I consider it too small for deer. There is nothing around here between rabbit and deer sized game and there hasn't been since before I was born. I elected to let the .327 pass. The 32-20, .32 Long, and .32 Magnum take care of my .32 addiction.

[lefty o]

the 327fed is a great little cartridge. it is imo the perfect cartridge for a snub nosed revolver. i dont think of it so much as a hunting cartridge, and i dont believe thats what it was intended for. although it would be fine on coyotes and coon, and close range deer. i like mine, and enjoy shooting it. havent yet, and wont for a long time handloaded for it as ive a ton of factory ammo for it, but dont see components being an issue.

[Green Frog]

FLHTC and lbaize3:

The very first handgun I ever shot was a 32-20. It was my fathers Colt Police Positive Special, which I now own. I have always had a soft spot for 32-20's and spent many years looking for one with target quality and adjustable sights. I never found one. Then I ran across a gun like the one pictured above.

I already had a S&W Model 632 SuperKitGun (J-frame) in .32 Magnum, which is much better sized for the .32 Magnum caliber. (Some time later, I also got a Ruger SuperSingle Six in .32 Magnum which is correctly sized, too). The K-frame was too big for the .32 Magnum, in my opinion. I thought about getting it and having it rechambered to 32-20. After doing a little research at home, I found that it should work. I went back the next morning to buy it and the gun was already gone. The next time I ran across one, I grabbed it and didn't let go until I purchased it. That is the one pictured above.

It was rechambered to 32-20 by a nationally known gunsmith (although he is known for semiautos rather than revolvers). The chambers were a bit tight, one in particular. The reamer he used had been sharpened, perhaps poorly. I marked that chamber and just loaded 5-rounds for several years after that. I later ran into a different gunsmith that had a brand new, never been used 32-20 reamer and had him run it through all 6 chambers. It works perfect now. Cartridges drop into the chambers and drop out again after firing. The reamers did not fully clean up the old chambering, so it looks like it is a double bottleneck when it comes out. That has no affect on the accuracy, though.

My standard load for this one is 6.0gr of IMR4756 with a 100gr Hornady XTP or a Lyman 311316-GC. It is VERY accurate with both. I know that load is no where near .327 velocity, but it is comfortably more than factory .32 Magnum loads and is a nice delightful load to shoot. After it proved out, I put some custom grips on it and had S&W laser engrave it. It will never be sold.

I guess I never understood the .327 Magnum. I shot the 32-20, then went to the .32 Long (both loaded to hotter than factory) and successfully shot small game with both for many years. When the .32 Magnum came around, I quickly tried it out. It was a little hotter than some of my handloads and worked well when shooting small game for the pot. Once I got the Ruger SuperSingleSix, I loaded the .32 Magnum up to 8.5gr of 2400 with an 85gr Hornady XTP. It was totally useless for small game hunting. Very accurate, but there was nothing left once I shot a rabbit or squirrel. The .327 is loaded even hotter than that. It would be even less use for small game and I consider it too small for deer. There is nothing around here between rabbit and deer sized game and there hasn't been since before I was born. I elected to let the .327 pass. The 32-20, .32 Long, and .32 Magnum take care of my .32 addiction.

I respectfully disagree... if you want a sound platform, both to contain a potential 40,000 PSI round and give you something to hold onto, it is the perfect frame size. Think in terms of your hottest 32-20 loadings... they go very well in a mid-size frame, don't they?

Understanding comes with familiarization. The 327, with its greater case capacity and strength, has the ability to do it all. You can load the case as hot as practical for hunting or defense or load mild FM rounds (or use 32 acp, 32 S&W & S&W L, or 32 H&R cases to tailor your loads in the same gun) and do just about anything with it that can be done with any but the truly big bore revolvers.

I guess I'm beginning to sound like an old time evangelist, but that's my experience, and that's how I feel. YMMV.

Froggie

[Harry O]

Just so everyone is aware, I did not intend to put down anyone who loves the .327 Magnum. To each his own. It just doesn't work for me and I explained why.

I have fired some original High-Velocity, High-Pressure 32-20 loads from a Colt SAA (many, many years ago) and some .30 Carbine from a Ruger SA (almost as many years ago). I did not care for them either. They must have been fairly close to the .327 Magnum in pressure and velocity. However, I have been preaching using .32's for small game hunting for a lot of years.

[trapper9260]

[QUOTE=Green Frog;2873654]I respectfully disagree... if you want a sound platform, both to contain a potential 40,000 PSI round and give you something to hold onto, it is the perfect frame size. Think in terms of your hottest 32-20 loadings... they go very well in a mid-size frame, don't they?

Understanding comes with familiarization. The 327, with its greater case capacity and strength, has the ability to do it all. You can load the case as hot as practical for hunting or defense or load mild FM rounds (or use 32 acp, 32 S&W & S&W L, or 32 H&R cases to tailor your loads in the same gun) and do just about anything with it that can be done with any but the truly big bore revolvers.

I guess I'm beginning to sound like an old time evangelist, but that's my experience, and that's how I feel. YMMV.

Froggie







I got the 327 for the reason that you have stated for all the cases you can shoot in it.because of the way 22lr are going if I start to run short of them for my trap line I will use my BH and shoot 32 S&W or 32acp for the trap line.It is also a gun that take some getting use to but after you are then you will be hook like some that have posted on here.Also since i can shoot 32acp in t I got my self a 32auto that way I can use the same ammo in both guns. the 32acp is my pocket gun it is a Kel-tec p32 and will stick with cast in it because it shoots better then factory rounds in it.

[Gus Youmans]

The OP's original question is in regards to how those of us who have ordered a Single Seven plan to feed them and that question has been answered obliquely in several posts but not directly. Most of us who have some version of .32 caliber handgun already have dies, brass, primers, bullet molds and powder on hand. In my case, I also have a fair number of jacketed bullets sitting on the shelf if I decide to load them. For those who are not set up already, factory ammo can be turned into empty brass pretty quickly. If ammo is not available locally, most of the online shooting supply stores have ammo in stock in the various .32s . Starline makes several runs a year of the .32 S&W Long, .32 H&R Magnum, and .327 Federal Magnum brass and they will notify you when it is available if you set up an account. Primers seem to be more available than in the past both locally and online. Appropriate powders seem to be the hardest component to get but if you already have fast to moderately fast pistol powders on hand you should be set. Reloading dies for the .32 H&R Magnum will work with all the .32 caliber cartridges and they are available online if you can't find them locally. For those that do not cast, several of the commercial casters have .32 caliber bullets available and several brands of jacketed bullets are available online.

I started my affair with the .32 during the height of the reloading component shortage and had to go the factory ammo route to get empty brass but other than that, components have not been too hard to get. Over time I have built up my stockpile of .32 S&W Long, .32 H&R Magnum and .327 Federal Magnum brass as it became available from Starline and am now set for the foreseeable future. Nonetheless, as brass becomes available, I will continue to add to the stockpile.

Gus Youmans

[unclebill]

i have never once seen 327 ammo in a store
BUT i admire the knowledge that you gentlemen have
and that alone is enough to make me want to take a good hard look at the cartridge and guns that use it.
i always figured that a 357 can do anything the 327 can and still fire 38 as well.
but maybe i am on the wrong track?

[2 dogs]

The 327 is my absolute all time favorite sixgun cartridge. I have owned several full on customs but my current favorite is a FA97 5.5" octagon. I run a 135 grain hollowpoint at 1400 fps with ease. Whats not to like????

[FLHTC]

i have never once seen 327 ammo in a store
BUT i admire the knowledge that you gentlemen have
and that alone is enough to make me want to take a good hard look at the cartridge and guns that use it.
i always figured that a 357 can do anything the 327 can and still fire 38 as well.
but maybe i am on the wrong track?

On the wrong track indeed. It's flat shooting and a handloaders dream. I bought 10 boxes of ammo over the past 5 years and i have 1,200 pieces of new brass so I'm good a long time. I just wish more companies would chamber the round in their rifles. The NEF Handi would be great in the 327. Just as owners of current 327 guns can enjoy the 32 mag, 32 S&W Long and 32 Auto, this enjoyment would spill over to rifle use as well. Often, I struggle to understand how such good things can become so unfavorable but the 327 is one round that should prosper, based on performance alone. I've used a 3x6 Bushnell on my Blackhawk already and I was amazed how flat and accurate it can be.

[Gus Youmans]

[QUOTE=unclebill;2874418]i have never once seen 327 ammo in a store

I guess my local gun store is better stocked than others, as I still see it on the shelves.

i always figured that a 357 can do anything the 327 can and still fire 38 as well.

You are generally correct, especially on the top end loads, but for cheap, easy to load, easy to shoot, fun family of cartridges, the .32s are hard to beat. You can get the .32 S&W Long to shoot powder puff loads for the recoil shy or new shooter, you can go to full bore .327 Federal for more serious applications, or you can go somewhere in the middle with the .32 H&R. Guns chambered for the .327 Federal will allow you to safely hotrod the .32 S&W Long and the .32 H&R, if you choose to do so.

To paraphrase our current commander in chief, if you are happy with your .357 magnum, you can keep your .357 magnum. On the other hand, if you are looking for an excuse to try something different, a firearm chambered for the .327 Federal will keep you busy for a long time.

Gus Youmans

[rhbrink]

OK! You guys did it to me I'm on the list to get one of these small bore wonders!

RB

[jrayborn]

Nice! :)

[FLHTC]

[QUOTE=unclebill;2874418]i have never once seen 327 ammo in a store

I guess my local gun store is better stocked than others, as I still see it on the shelves.

i always figured that a 357 can do anything the 327 can and still fire 38 as well.

You are generally correct, especially on the top end loads, but for cheap, easy to load, easy to shoot, fun family of cartridges, the .32s are hard to beat. You can get the .32 S&W Long to shoot powder puff loads for the recoil shy or new shooter, you can go to full bore .327 Federal for more serious applications, or you can go somewhere in the middle with the .32 H&R. Guns chambered for the .327 Federal will allow you to safely hotrod the .32 S&W Long and the .32 H&R, if you choose to do so.

To paraphrase our current commander in chief, if you are happy with your .357 magnum, you can keep your .357 magnum. On the other hand, if you are looking for an excuse to try something different, a firearm chambered for the .327 Federal will keep you busy for a long time.

Gus Youmans

The trajectory of the 357, compared to the 327 is nothing close. There is very little "Hold Over" with the 327 out to 200 yards. You might want to refigure

[snowwolfe]

i have never once seen 327 ammo in a store

Maybe its time to find a new store, or order online:) This was in stock as of posting this message on gunbot:




Speer 327 Federal 115 Grain Gold Dot Hollow Point (http://www.gunbot.net/go/116777)
$1.18/rd

[$23.65]
SelfDefense
[Buds]


FEDERAL 327 FED MAG 85 GR SOFT POINT 50 ROUNDS FEDAE327A (http://www.gunbot.net/go/137729)
$0.54/rd

[$26.79]
Hunting
[3rd Generation]


FEDERAL 327 FED MAG 100 GR JSP 50 ROUNDS FEDAE327 (http://www.gunbot.net/go/78461)
$0.54/rd

[$26.79]
Hunting
[3rd Generation]


AMERICAN EAGLE AMMO 327FEDERAL JSP AE327 50 BOX (http://www.gunbot.net/go/88706)
$0.62/rd

[$30.99]
Hunting
[Trop]


FEDERAL AMMO 327FED HYDRA-SHOK PD327HS1H 20 BOX (http://www.gunbot.net/go/88714)
$1.20/rd

[$23.99]
SelfDefense
[Trop]


SPEER AMMO 327FED GOLD DOT HP 23914 20 BOX (http://www.gunbot.net/go/88725)
$1.25/rd

[$24.99]
SelfDefense
[Trop]


FED .327 FEDERAL MAGNUM PREM HYDRA-SHOK-JHP PERSONAL DEFENSE 85gr 20rds (http://www.gunbot.net/go/133569)
$2.00/rd

[$39.99]
SelfDefense
[Ammobank]


SPEER .327 FEDERAL MAGNUM GOLD-DOT HP 115gr 20rds (http://www.gunbot.net/go/133570)
$1.67/rd

[$33.32]
SelfDefense
[Ammobank]


FED .327 FEDERAL MAGNUM Soft Point 85gr 50rds (http://www.gunbot.net/go/133571)
$0.90/rd

[$45.02]
Hunting
[Ammobank]


American Eagle AE327 Jacketed Soft Point 50RD 100gr 327 Federal Magnum (http://www.gunbot.net/go/151396)
$0.58/rd

[$28.99]
Hunting
[Buds]


Federal PD327HS1 Hydra-Shok Jacketed Hollow Point 50RD 85gr 327 Federal Magnum (http://www.gunbot.net/go/151399)
$0.42/rd

[$21.15]
SelfDefense
[Buds]


American Eagle AE327A Jacket Soft Point 50RD 85gr 327 Federal Magnum (http://www.gunbot.net/go/151402)
$0.51/rd

[$25.70]
Hunting
[Buds]


Federal American Eagle Pistol Ammunition AE327A, 327 Federal Magnum, Jacketed Soft Point (SP), 85 GR, 1400 fps, 50 round (http://www.gunbot.net/go/139567)
$0.53/rd

[$26.26]
Hunting
[Able Ammo]


Buffalo Bore Rifle Ammunition 37A/20, 327 Federal Magnum, Jacketed Hollow Point (JHP), 100 GR, 1450 fps, 20 Rd/Bx (http://www.gunbot.net/go/117387)
$1.29/rd

[$25.87]
SelfDefense
[Able Ammo]


Speer Gold Dot Handgun Ammunition 23913, 327 Federal Magnum, Gold Dot Hollow Point (HP), 100 GR, 1500 fps, 20 Rd/bx (http://www.gunbot.net/go/117389)
$1.09/rd

[$21.72]
SelfDefense
[Able Ammo]


Buffalo Bore Rifle Ammunition 37B/20, 327 Federal Magnum, Hard Cast, 130 GR, 1300 fps, 20 Rd/Bx (http://www.gunbot.net/go/147343)
$1.29/rd

[$25.87]

[Able Ammo]


Federal American Eagle .327 Federal Magnum 100gr JSP 50rds AE327 (http://www.gunbot.net/go/89468)
$0.52/rd

[$25.99]
Hunting
[PSA]


Speer Gold Dot .327 Federal Mag 115gr. GDHP 20rds 23914 (http://www.gunbot.net/go/94407)
$1.00/rd

[$19.99]
SelfDefense
[PSA]


Federal American Eagle .327 Federal Magnum 85gr SP AE327A (http://www.gunbot.net/go/89485)
$0.53/rd

[$26.49]
Hunting
[PSA]


Federal .327 Federal Mag Reduced Recoil 85gr Hydra-Shok JHP 20rds PD327HS1 H (http://www.gunbot.net/go/89481)
$1.05/rd

[$20.99]
SelfDefense
[PSA]


Federal American Eagle .327 Federal Magnum 100 Gr. JSP- Box of 50 (http://www.gunbot.net/go/88778)
$0.47/rd

[$23.50]
Hunting
[Selway Armory]


Federal Premium Personal Defense .327 Federal Magnum 85 Gr. Reduced Recoil Hydra-Shok Jacketed Hollow Point- Box of 20 (http://www.gunbot.net/go/88789)
$0.90/rd

[$17.99]
SelfDefense
[Selway Armory]


Speer Gold Dot .327 Federal Magnum 100 Gr. Jacketed Hollow Point- Box of 20 (http://www.gunbot.net/go/88799)
$0.95/rd

[$18.99]
SelfDefense
[Selway Armory]


500rds - 327 Federal Magnum Federal American Eagle 85gr. Soft Point Ammo (http://www.gunbot.net/go/152021)
$0.52/rd

[$259.95]
Hunting
[Ammunition To Go]


327 Federal Mag Ammo 85gr Hydra Shok JHP Low Recoil 20 Round Box (http://www.gunbot.net/go/82457)
$0.85/rd

[$16.99]
SelfDefense
[Ammunition Store]


Speer Gold Dot .327 Federal 100gr JHP 20rds 23913 (http://www.gunbot.net/go/94405)
$1.00/rd

[$19.99]
SelfDefense
[PSA]


327 MAG SPEER GOLD DOT AMMO, 100GR GDHP, 20RD (http://www.gunbot.net/go/85845)
$1.15/rd

[$22.94]
SelfDefense
[J&G Sales]


20 Rounds of .327 Federal Mag Ammo by Federal - 85gr JHP (http://www.gunbot.net/go/126267)
$1.08/rd

[$21.50]
SelfDefense
[BulkAmmo]


50 Rounds of .327 Federal Mag Ammo by Federal - 85gr SP (http://www.gunbot.net/go/128321)
$0.52/rd

[$25.75]

[BulkAmmo]


20 Rounds of .327 Federal Mag Ammo by Speer - 115gr JHP (http://www.gunbot.net/go/88936)
$1.08/rd

[$21.50]
SelfDefense
[BulkAmmo]


20 Rounds of .327 Federal Mag Ammo by Speer - 100gr JHP (http://www.gunbot.net/go/88943)
$1.10/rd

[$22.00]
SelfDefense
[BulkAmmo]


50rds - 327 Federal Magnum Federal American Eagle 85gr. Soft Point Ammo (http://www.gunbot.net/go/80280)
$0.53/rd

[$26.49]
Hunting
[Ammunition To Go]


Buffalo Bore Ammunition 37A/20 327 Fed Mag JHP 100GR 20Box/12Case (http://www.gunbot.net/go/141417)
$1.63/rd

[$32.69]
SelfDefense
[iAmmo]


CCI Speer 23913 327 Federal Magnum 100GR Gold Dot Hollow Point 20Box/25Case (http://www.gunbot.net/go/140916)
$1.37/rd

[$27.44]
SelfDefense
[iAmmo]


Federal Cartridge American Eagle 327 Federal Magnum 85 Grain Jacketed Soft Point 50 Round Box (http://www.gunbot.net/go/139548)
$0.53/rd

[$26.63]
Hunting
[iAmmo]


50 rds - 327 Magnum Federal American Eagle 100 grain Jacketed Soft Point Ammo (http://www.gunbot.net/go/88719)
$0.54/rd

[$26.95]
Hunting
[SGAmmo]


Buffalo Bore Ammo - HEAVY 327 FEDERAL Ammo - 100 gr. JHP (1450fps) - 20 Round Box (http://www.gunbot.net/go/81424)
$1.20/rd

[$24.00]
SelfDefense
[Extreme Impact Ammo]


Buffalo Bore Ammo - HEAVY 327 FEDERAL Ammo - 130 gr. Hard Cast Keith (1300fps) - 20 Round Box (http://www.gunbot.net/go/81425)
$1.27/rd

[$25.30]

[Extreme Impact Ammo]


Speer Gold Dot 327 Federal Mag. 115gr 20rd Box (http://www.gunbot.net/go/83605)
$1.10/rd

[$21.99]
SelfDefense
[Cope's]


Federal Premium 327 Mag 85gr 20rd box (http://www.gunbot.net/go/83611)
$1.05/rd

[$20.99]

[Cope's]


50 rds - 327 Fed Mag American Eagle 100gr JSP AE327 (http://www.gunbot.net/go/116346)
$0.52/rd

[$25.99]
Hunting
[9mmAmmo]


FAE327A American Eagle 327 Federal Magnum 85gr sp ammunition $23.15 /50 (http://www.gunbot.net/go/79367)
$0.46/rd

[$23.15]
Hunting
[Widener's]


327 MAG BUFFALO BORE HEAVY AMMO, 1300FPS 130GR JHP, 20RD BOX (http://www.gunbot.net/go/141637)
$1.25/rd

[$24.98]
SelfDefense
[J&G Sales]


327 MAG BUFFALO BORE HEAVY AMMO, 1450FPS 100GR JHP, 20RD BOX (http://www.gunbot.net/go/141638)
$1.25/rd

[$24.98]
SelfDefense
[J&G Sales]


Speer Gold Dot Ammunition 327 Federal Magnum 100 Grain Jacketed Hollow Point Box of 20 (http://www.gunbot.net/go/92793)
$1.10/rd

[$21.99]
SelfDefense
[MidwayUSA]


Buffalo Bore Ammunition 327 Federal 100 Grain Jacketed Hollow Point Box of 20 (http://www.gunbot.net/go/92802)
$1.35/rd

[$26.99]
SelfDefense
[MidwayUSA]


Buffalo Bore Ammunition 327 Federal 130 Grain Hard Cast Keith Box of 20 (http://www.gunbot.net/go/92803)
$1.40/rd

[$27.99]

[MidwayUSA]


Federal .327 Mag. HYDRA-SHOK 85gr JHP 20 rounds(PD327HS1 H) (http://www.gunbot.net/go/78935)
$0.90/rd

[$17.93]
SelfDefense
[Goose Island]


Speer 327 Fed Mag Gold Dot 100gr HP 20 rounds(23913) (http://www.gunbot.net/go/78936)
$0.92/rd

[$18.49]
SelfDefense
[Goose Island]


Federal American Eagle - .327 Fed. Mag 85gr SP 50/Box AE327A (http://www.gunbot.net/go/121696)
$0.52/rd

[$25.99]
Hunting
[Natchez]


Federal American Eagle Ammunition AE327, 327 Federal Mag, Soft Point (SP), 100 GR, 1400 fps, 50 Rd/bx (http://www.gunbot.net/go/117037)
$0.55/rd

[$27.71]
Hunting
[Able Ammo]


Speer Gold Dot Handgun Ammunition 23914, 327 Federal, Gold Dot Hollow Point (HP), 115 GR, 1300 fps, 20 Rd/bx (http://www.gunbot.net/go/117038)
$1.11/rd

[$22.19]
SelfDefense
[Able Ammo]


Federal Premium Personal Defense Ammunition PD327HS1, 327 Federal Mag, Jacketed Hollow Point (JHP), 85 GR, 1400 fps, 20 Rd/bx (http://www.gunbot.net/go/122365)
$1.07/rd

[$21.43]
SelfDefense
[Able Ammo]


Federal Cartridge 327 Federal Magnum 85 Grain Hydra-Shok JHP, 20 Round Box (http://www.gunbot.net/go/127429)
$1.17/rd

[$23.31]
SelfDefense
[iAmmo]


Federal Personal Defense 327 Federal Magnum Ammo 85 Grain Hydra-Shok Jacketed Hollow Point (http://www.gunbot.net/go/134215)
$1.15/rd

[$22.99]
SelfDefense
[TargetSportsUSA]


Federal American Eagle 327 Federal Magnum Ammo 100 Grain Jacketed Soft Point (http://www.gunbot.net/go/134210)
$0.54/rd

[$26.99]
Hunting
[TargetSportsUSA]


Federal Premium Personal Defense Reduced Recoil Ammunition 327 Federal Magnum 85 Grain Hydra-Shok Jacketed Hollow Point Box of 20 (http://www.gunbot.net/go/132034)
$1.07/rd

[$21.49]
SelfDefense
[MidwayUSA]


20rds - 327 Federal Magnum Federal Hydra-Shok 85gr. Hollow Point Ammo (http://www.gunbot.net/go/129585)
$1.15/rd

[$22.95]
SelfDefense
[Ammunition To Go]


20rds - 327 Federal Magnum Corbon 75gr. DPX Ammo (http://www.gunbot.net/go/94584)
$1.50/rd

[$29.95]
SelfDefense
[Ammunition To Go]


20rds - 327 Federal Heavy Buffalo Bore 100gr. JHP Ammo (http://www.gunbot.net/go/80268)
$1.35/rd

[$26.95]
SelfDefense
[Ammunition To Go]


20rds - 327 Federal Buffalo Bore 130gr. Hard Cast Keith WC Ammo (http://www.gunbot.net/go/80273)
$1.35/rd

[$26.95]

[Ammunition To Go]


20rds - 327 Federal Magnum Speer 100gr. Gold Dot Hollow Point Ammo (http://www.gunbot.net/go/80275)
$1.20/rd

[$23.95]
SelfDefense
[Ammunition To Go]


20rds - 327 Federal Magnum Speer 115gr. Gold Dot Hollow Point Ammo (http://www.gunbot.net/go/80277)
$1.20/rd

[$23.95]
SelfDefense
[Ammunition To Go]


50rds - 327 Federal Magnum Federal American Eagle 100gr. Soft Point Ammo (http://www.gunbot.net/go/80282)
$0.56/rd

[$27.95]
Hunting
[Ammunition To Go]


Federal Premium Personal Defense - .327 Fed. Mag 85gr Hydra-Shok JHP 20/Box PD327HS1H (http://www.gunbot.net/go/120354)
$1.32/rd

[$26.49]
SelfDefense
[Natchez]


CCI Speer .327 Federal 115gr Gold Dot HP Ammunition 20/box 23914 (http://www.gunbot.net/go/120213)
$1.35/rd

[$26.99]
SelfDefense
[Natchez]


CCI Speer .327 Federal Mag 100gr Gold Dot HP Ammunition 20/box 23913 (http://www.gunbot.net/go/120215)
$1.10/rd

[$21.99]
SelfDefense
[Natchez]


CCI Speer .327 Federal 115gr Gold Dot HP Ammunition 20/box 23914 (http://www.gunbot.net/go/120214)
$1.10/rd

[$21.99]
SelfDefense
[Natchez]

[Gus Youmans]

FLHTC,

The intent of my post was to point out that the family of cartridges that can be fired in a firearm chambered for the .327 magnum is versatile, fun, and relatively inexpensive. I intentionally avoided making point-by-point comparisons of the .327 and .357 so that no one would challenge me on details for which I do not have facts to support. I have not compared ballistics tables for the two cartridges to ascertain differences in the trajectories of the .327 and .357, nor do I plan to do so because it isn't important to me. I have used the .357 to kill deer but only under limited conditions. I cannot think of a condition where the .327 would be a better choice for shooting deer than the .357 and that was what I was alluding to when I said the .357 is generally a better choice with top end loads than the .327.

Gus Youmans

[rking22]

Interesting thread, I am on the fence about the SS7 . I really like 32s and regret having missed the single sixes in 32HR. So his would satisfy that itch. My hesantancy is due to having owned a 30carbine BH many years ago. That had to be the most unpleasant BH I ever had. It was miserably loud, plugs and muffs and still a headache after shooting it. It was ok loaded down but then it's a big 32HR. OK question is for you who have both the 30Car BH and a 327 , with full effect loads is it as loud as the BH? If so how can folk deal with it in a snubby? I too want it in a rifle, seems to match the 300 Sherwood in case capacity and exceed it in performance. A nice low wall would suit:)

[lbaize3]

Yep, the 327 can be loud, but to me it does not have the piercing blast of the 30 carbine. I do enjoy shooting the 30 carbine blackhawk but it does not get the range time of my 327 and 32-20 revolvers. I enjoy shooting my 32-20 firearms, but the 327 gives me all the speed and accuracy of the hot loaded 32-20 without using up the brass as quickly. A 32-20 case will not go much more than 5 loadings with hot loads. The 327 just keeps on ticking.....

In regards to muzzle blast, my hearing was pretty much destroyed by the 50 caliber machine guns fired near me and by me during my time in Southeast Asia. So I can just wear my electronic ear protectors and be just as happy as a clam when I am shooting.

[rking22]

Seems I should get one this go round, I missed the first 32HR SS for same reason. I like that it seems to do fine with the shorter (more available) brass also. Thanks for the info.

[wdr2]

I have a Single Six in 32H&R, 6.5in. Loaded with 115 GC ( Miha's new hp mold) and 10.5 gr of 296, I get 1175 FPS. Not too loud, very accurate, no leading. When the Single Seven was announced, I immediately got on the list for one in 7.5in. These 32's are fun guns, using little powder and lead. Trying to compare or justify them is a lost cause. Just get one and enjoy!

[FLHTC]

FLHTC,

The intent of my post was to point out that the family of cartridges that can be fired in a firearm chambered for the .327 magnum is versatile, fun, and relatively inexpensive. I intentionally avoided making point-by-point comparisons of the .327 and .357 so that no one would challenge me on details for which I do not have facts to support. I have not compared ballistics tables for the two cartridges to ascertain differences in the trajectories of the .327 and .357, nor do I plan to do so because it isn't important to me. I have used the .357 to kill deer but only under limited conditions. I cannot think of a condition where the .327 would be a better choice for shooting deer than the .357 and that was what I was alluding to when I said the .357 is generally a better choice with top end loads than the .327.

Gus Youmans

Gus, I agree that the 357 will be an adequate deer cartridge as will the 327 Federal. The 327 factory load gives it the highest velocity of any handgun round to date and with handloads, the bar is even higher. Add jacketed rifle bullets and it really stands alone in a revolver. If the 357 mag was a better choice than the 327, the 30 carbine would have never been designed.

[Gus Youmans]

FLHTC

If you think that the .327 is equal to the .357 for killing deer under all the same conditions I am not going to argue with you. We will simply have to agree to disagree. On your other point, I contend that even if the .327 Federal had existed when the M1 Carbine was being developed it would not have been considered in its current form because of the difficulty of getting a rimmed cartridge to feed in a high capacity, magazine-fed, semiautomatic rifle. The .30 Carbine designers might have used the .327 cartridge instead of the .351 WSL as a base from which to develop a rimless cartridge but I doubt they would have used the .327 Magnum as is. If you are asserting that Ruger would not have manufactured the Blackhawk in .30 Carbine if the .327 Federal had existed, I am not going to speculate one way or another. However, I do wonder why the .30 Carbine Blackhawk is still a standard offering and the .327 is not standard in any of Ruger's revolvers.. I can only surmise that Ruger must sell enough of the .30 Carbine Blackhawks to make it profitable.

Gus Youmans

[trapper9260]

I have a Blackhawk in 327 and 357 one is a 8 shooter and the other is a 6, I am happy with both.They both serve there place.the 327 you can shoot 5 different kind of rounds in it.and the 357 you can do 2 but if you reload your own and cast you still can make use of the ones that get too short for 38spl and go from there .As for the both guns it is up to the user and then go from there.I know too many from what i seen and some I met was think of the 327 to do all what a 357 can do but they are not looking at the whole.But for what they do not get on 327 is more from he one that like it and use it in there own way.That is how I see it.

[FLHTC]

FLHTC

If you think that the .327 is equal to the .357 for killing deer under all the same conditions I am not going to argue with you. We will simply have to agree to disagree. On your other point, I contend that even if the .327 Federal had existed when the M1 Carbine was being developed it would not have been considered in its current form because of the difficulty of getting a rimmed cartridge to feed in a high capacity, magazine-fed, semiautomatic rifle. The .30 Carbine designers might have used the .327 cartridge instead of the .351 WSL as a base from which to develop a rimless cartridge but I doubt they would have used the .327 Magnum as is. If you are asserting that Ruger would not have manufactured the Blackhawk in .30 Carbine if the .327 Federal had existed, I am not going to speculate one way or another. However, I do wonder why the .30 Carbine Blackhawk is still a standard offering and the .327 is not standard in any of Ruger's revolvers.. I can only surmise that Ruger must sell enough of the .30 Carbine Blackhawks to make it profitable.

Gus Youmans

Then you must have acquired a different attitude. When it comes to your disagreement on the 327 being unequal to the 357, you are singing to the choir. Every gun magazine writer who shot it highly praises the 327 for it's performance and here is one article from American Rifleman that puts it statistically above the 357. http://www.americanrifleman.org/article.php?id=14586&sub=0

I am not saying anything about what Ruger would have or wouldn't have done. I am merely stating that since the 357 mag does feed buttery smooth in semi automatic weapons and the Coonan, AMT and Desert Eagle are proof, it's hard to imagine it not being considered for a small carbine. The only difficulty with the rimmed case in a semi automatic weapon is getting the shooters to buy them.
You are assuming that sales was the issue for the 327 to be dropped but the SP101 had cylinder issues, due to the chamber pressure being 45,000. That is the highest of any handgun round to date. All the manufacturers got cold feet and dropped the 327 when Ruger did. With the 357 mag chamber pressure being 35,000, it's easy to see how great the liability was when companies relied on product testing done by Ruger. So when Ruger dropped the 327 due to the cylinder issues, it's not surprising that other companies followed suit.

[snowwolfe]

I was just on Midways web site and could only find Lyman dies for the 327 Federal. Does anyone else make reloading dies for the 327?

Or do you just buy dies for the 32 and adjust them differently?

[Gus Youmans]

Snowwolfe,

I use Lee .32 H&R dies to load .32 S&W Long, .32 H&R, and .327 Federal. As you suggest, they just have to be adjusted appropriately for the cartridge at hand. I have no experience with the .32 S&W or .32 ACP.

Gus Youmans

[FLHTC]

I was just on Midways web site and could only find Lyman dies for the 327 Federal. Does anyone else make reloading dies for the 327?

Or do you just buy dies for the 32 and adjust them differently?

It depends on the manufacturer. My Dillon Square Deal B will rip the rims off of every case during sizing so perhaps the carbide sizer is too shallow for the 327. I have a set of Lee dies in 32 H&R but the seating stem is only in by a few threads. Unless the Ruger Single Seven really takes off and other companies launch their own platforms again, I doubt you'll see proprietary dies for the 327. I have a 32 mag conversion kit for my RL550B and although it works, the dies are barely in the tool head because they're for the 32 mag/32 S&W.

[snowwolfe]

I ordered a set of Hornadys. Amazon had them in stock and with the current rebate offering a free box of Hornady bullets (limited selection) its hard to go wrong for $50 shipped.

[Gus Youmans]

FLHTC,

Recommend you look up the definition of the word "statistics" and then read that article again. Although the article is good reading and the author offers a lot of observations and opinions, he provides no data that allows us to perform an apples-to-apples comparison of the two cartridges. He does provide some information about the trajectory of the .327 but he does not provide comparable information for the .357, so we don't know if the .327 really has a flatter trajectory than the .357. It probably does, but he does not tell us. Without data there can be no statistics.

I use a 10 " .357 TC Contender, a max charge of H110 and the Hornady 180 grain XTP bullet for deer hunting. My largest .327 is a 4" GP100 and believe the best factory load for deer would be the 115 grain Federal JHP load that I have chronographed at about 1400 fps from that gun. My handloads using the 100 grain Hornady XTP bullet using published data are not equal to the Federal load in my gun. Given the guns and ammunition available to me, I cannot accept your conjecture that the .327 is as good as or better than the .357 for deer under all conditions. I have never shot a deer with the .327 but I have shot them with the .357 and know that it works as long as I do my part. I consider the .357 to be less than optimal for deer but use it instead of a larger cartridge because I don't shoot the larger cartridges as well.

The reason I first bought a .327 was for use as a self-defense cartridge and I think you can make strong arguments that it is as good as, and maybe better than, the .357 in that role. The ballistics of the .327 are certainly nearly as good as the .357 and bullet performance in ballistic gelatin suggests similar results in tissue at self-defense ranges. Other factors in favor of the .327 are its reduced recoil and the fact that most revolvers chamber one more round than a similarly sized .357 revolver. The fact that you can cheaply make very low recoil practice ammo using .32 S&W Long brass is also important to me.

Gus Youmans

[Green Frog]

It depends on the manufacturer. My Dillon Square Deal B will rip the rims off of every case during sizing so perhaps the carbide sizer is too shallow for the 327. I have a set of Lee dies in 32 H&R but the seating stem is only in by a few threads. Unless the Ruger Single Seven really takes off and other companies launch their own platforms again, I doubt you'll see proprietary dies for the 327. I have a 32 mag conversion kit for my RL550B and although it works, the dies are barely in the tool head because they're for the 32 mag/32 S&W.

I believe the problem is the case rim specs rather than the carbide ring in the die. When I am using my "Through-the-die" expander and powder drop (Lyman) I have the same problem. I think the existing shell holders have openings that are a little too generously proportioned and don't hold onto the admittedly small rims well enough. This is a particular problem with some of my old Lyman J-type shell holders. Manufacturing tolerances can sometimes get us into trouble!

Froggie

[OuchHot!]

I was intrigued that the Dillon shell plate was ripping the case heads so I tried my lee shell holder and lee carbide dies on new starline .327 cases with no ill effects. Cutting back the lee seat stem might be the best solution but I see that Grafs lists lyman .327fed die sets if the die bodies are just too short.

[dilly]

I wish this thread would die out so I could quit wanting a 327.

[OuchHot!]

Oh it is too late for me! I ordered the lipsey's yesterday. These guys are terrible enablers. Just plain terrible.

[rhbrink]

Welcome to the club OuchHot! Better get on the list before it's too late dilly!:lol:

[lefty o]

I wish this thread would die out so I could quit wanting a 327.

its already in your mind, just go get one! LOL

[Green Frog]

I was intrigued that the Dillon shell plate was ripping the case heads so I tried my lee shell holder and lee carbide dies on new starline .327 cases with no ill effects. Cutting back the lee seat stem might be the best solution but I see that Grafs lists lyman .327fed die sets if the die bodies are just too short.

As I said, I think it's a matter of tolerances in shell holders/shell plates... I've had good success with my RCBS die set in 32 S&W L/H&R and a Lee shell holder from their starter set. Bad luck with one of my Lyman J-type shell holders and the Lyman Expander/Powder Drop. Luck of the draw on manufacturing tolerances.

Froggie

[M-Tecs]

I don’t have a 327 Federal but a couple of friends have them and they love them. The only issue I have is the .311 bore size. If it was.308 I would have one.

I do not like misinformation. Below is my response to what I believe is misinformation.





The trajectory of the 357, compared to the 327 is nothing close. There is very little "Hold Over" with the 327 out to 200 yards. You might want to refigure


Comparing the flattest 327 Federal load to the flattest 357 shows 32.1 drop for the 327 and 34.8 drop for the 357. www.federalpremium.com/Ballistics_Calculator


The 327 factory load gives it the highest velocity of any handgun round to date and with handloads, the bar is even higher.

Not even close to the 460 S&W factory velocity of 2300 fps http://www.corbon.com/corboncart/ht460sw200-20

http://www.speer-bullets.com/pdf/327_Federal_100gr3990_DataFile_Final.pdf

http://www.speer-bullets.com/pdf/327_Federal_Magnum_GDHP_115gr_3988_DataFile.pdf

http://www.ballistics101.com/327_magnum.php (http://www.ballistics101.com/327_magnum.php)

http://www.ballistics101.com/357_magnum.php (http://www.ballistics101.com/357_magnum.php)

http://www.ballistics101.com/460_sw.php (http://www.ballistics101.com/460_sw.php)




due to the chamber pressure being 45,000. That is the highest of any handgun round to date. All the manufacturers got cold feet and dropped the 327 when Ruger did. With the 357 mag chamber pressure being 35,000,it's easy to see how great the liability was when companies relied on producttesting done by Ruger. So when Ruger dropped the 327 due to the cylinderissues, it's not surprising that other companies followed suit.

Not even close to the 65,000 PSI of the 454 Casull and 460 S&W

http://www.ballistics101.com/460_sw.php (http://www.ballistics101.com/460_sw.php)

http://www.lasc.us/SAAMIMaxPressure.htm (http://www.lasc.us/SAAMIMaxPressure.htm)

[Thundarstick]

I'm a big fan of the .32s ever since I bought my first 32 H&R Ruger more than 25 years ago! As mentioned, the 327 Federal covers all roles from paper punching to true self defense, to hunting. The 327 makes the 32 H&R into what it should have been from the beginning, and adds a dimension in .32 performance!

I have one of the Single Sevens on order and am doing my part to keep this round alive and well. I own a S&W 632, Taurus snub, GP 100, SP 101, and that big ole fist full of bullets BlackHawk from Ruger! I carry one of these guns nearly every day as a CCW and don't feel under gunned. Being a revolver man, the 327 gets me an extra shot in the same size gun as a 357. I am perplexed to this day as to why Ruger didn't put this round into it's LCR and 4 inch SP 101 with adjustable sights. I have shot IDPA with the GP 100 and think it is much more effective than the 380 and at least equal to the 9mms. All hand gun rounds are very weak when compared to rifle rounds. After all, if you truly expected to be in a shoot out would you choose a pistol first if your rifle was handy? I didn't think so!:Fire:

I'm still amazed at the people who make comments along the lines of "anything the 327 can do the 357 can do better"! Well where does one stop with this line of thinking? Anything a 357 can do a 35 Remington can do better, or a 350 Wby. Mag! Deer are taken every year with rounds that, to some folks, should just bounce off! There have probably been more deer taken with a 22lr than many on this forum would care to admit! Killing deer is all about shot placement and BTW, I'll take my .223 over any 357 or 44mag because I can put that little bullet exactly where it needs to go. If you are not disciplined enough to know what your gun is capable (or not capable) of and choose your shots accordingly, then just how big of a gun does it take to make up for poor bullet placement? No the 327 isn't a 357, nor is the 357 a 44 mag, nor is the 44 mag a 500 S&W, but it does fill a very big gap between the 22lr and the 357 mag with some overlap, and without the recoil.

On my wish list? How about a 327 low wall, or even one of the Ruger bolt actions. A lever action would be the cat's pajamas!

As far as ammo, I could find 327 when most other ammunitions could not be found. I've not cast in years, but I do buy my bullets both cast and jacketed. It is a very easy round to load for and goes easy on the powder and lead.

YEP! I'm a fan and I don't see myself ever not having 327s in my stable! I dare you to try one for yourself!;)

[UnderDawgAl]

I put in my order for both a 5.5-incher and a 7.5-incher, in the hopes that one of the two might become available. We shall see.

[arvchaeopteryx]

I picked up a SP101 in .327 Federal Magnum about two years ago. I've fired both Federal and Speer factory ammo out of it. It's a really "intense" round to fire, especially with the 115-grain Speer loading. Literature notes that the pressure of the .327 Federal is higher than that of the .357 or .44 Magnums.
I just loaded 100 rounds of .327, my first adventure in loading the round. I used the Hornady XTP 100-grain, a projectile I've gotten superb performance from in both .32 H&R Mag, and .32/20.
The brass I loaded on was Federal, purchased as new factory unprimed. I picked up 500 rounds from Graf when they had it a while back. Unfortunately the Federal brand brass is no longer in the Graf catalog. I'm not concerned though, since .327 Fed is now listed by Starline.
I've ordered a Lipsey's Single Seven and very much look forward to seeing how the round performs in it.
For those having difficulty locating ammunition in the caliber, as of a few days ago Graf had both Federal and Speer factory ammo in stock.

[OuchHot!]

I see that some folk have gotten their Lipsey .327's. Has anyone gotten a 7.5 incher? That's what I ordered and I wondering if they are out yet. Got brass, boolits, no gun.

[Hooker53]

The more I read about this round the more I want one. I'm thinking seriously about setting up an old Martini Henry for 327 Fed just to plink with. I think it would be a hoot. One gun that can shoot 3/4 different rounds.

[Combat Diver]

The more I read about this round the more I want one. I'm thinking seriously about setting up an old Martini Henry for 327 Fed just to plink with. I think it would be a hoot. One gun that can shoot 3/4 different rounds.

.327 Federal
.32 H&R Magnum
.32 S&W Long
.32 Colt New Police (just different bullet profile from the S&W Long)
.32 S&W
.32 ACP/7.65x17 SR


CD

[ejcrist]

I'm a huge 32 fan as well. My general philosophy is 32 H&R for small game and 44 Special or 45 Colt for everything else. I ordered a FA 327 with extra 32 H&R and 32-20 cylinders a few months ago but I got it mostly for the 32 H&R. I've never shot a 327 but look forward to it. FA revolvers are really quite a bargain like in this case where you can get three 32 caliber revolvers for a little more each than you would pay for three separate revolvers. And you won't have to worry about the FA not being accurate if you take your time and work up a good load.

[trapper9260]

.327 Federal
.32 H&R Magnum
.32 S&W Long
.32 Colt New Police (just different bullet profile from the S&W Long)
.32 S&W
.32 ACP/7.65x17 SR


CD

I shoot all those in my BH .I use the horndy dies of 32HR Mag and load all of these round with it and the only differnet thing is you need a different shell holder for the 32acp.I shoot cast in all of them.I end up also got a P32 keltec since I was usen the round anyways.The BH I size the boolit to 313 and for the P32 to 312.

[FLHTC]

I don’t have a 327 Federal but a couple of friends have them and they love them. The only issue I have is the .311 bore size. If it was.308 I would have one.

I do not like misinformation. Below is my response to what I believe is misinformation.





Comparing the flattest 327 Federal load to the flattest 357 shows 32.1 drop for the 327 and 34.8 drop for the 357. www.federalpremium.com/Ballistics_Calculator (http://www.federalpremium.com/Ballistics_Calculator)



Not even close to the 460 S&W factory velocity of 2300 fps http://www.corbon.com/corboncart/ht460sw200-20

http://www.speer-bullets.com/pdf/327_Federal_100gr3990_DataFile_Final.pdf

http://www.speer-bullets.com/pdf/327_Federal_Magnum_GDHP_115gr_3988_DataFile.pdf

http://www.ballistics101.com/327_magnum.php (http://www.ballistics101.com/327_magnum.php)

http://www.ballistics101.com/357_magnum.php (http://www.ballistics101.com/357_magnum.php)

http://www.ballistics101.com/460_sw.php (http://www.ballistics101.com/460_sw.php)




Not even close to the 65,000 PSI of the 454 Casull and 460 S&W

http://www.ballistics101.com/460_sw.php (http://www.ballistics101.com/460_sw.php)

http://www.lasc.us/SAAMIMaxPressure.htm (http://www.lasc.us/SAAMIMaxPressure.htm)



Haha I just saw this. Well you got me on the velocity and pressure because I never even had a desire to read about either round. I guess if I include the T/C Encore with belted magnums, I would be wrong again but I draw the line when it comes sanity and practicality. The two fisted hand cannons aren't a practical trail gun, unless it's in Jurasic Park.

As far as trajectory goes for the 357 and the 327, I go by personal experiences, not data tables that were generated to sell a product. I shoot them both and I don't rely on second hand information about either. No misinformation here.

[M-Tecs]

Interesting. I shoot competition out to a 1,000 yards with rifle and 600 yards for fun with handgun. The ballistic calculators have been very close on for both drop and wind. With cast boolits and BPCR rifles determining the correct ballistic coefficient is the biggest challenge. Most of the mold maker just take a WAG as to the BC.

The 454 Casull and 460 S&W are both revolver cartridges first and foremost.

How External Ballistics Programs Work
http://www.appliedballisticsllc.com/Articles/ABDOC102_HowBallisticsProgramsWork.pdf

Nice app. for your I-phone http://ballisticapp.com/

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.borisov.strelok&hl=en for Androids


Sources of Ballistic Program Inaccuracies
http://www.arcanamavens.com/LBSFiles/Shooting/Downloads/Programs/

Bottom line is they work. Compare the flatest 327 factory to the flatest 357 factory and they are very close in drop with the 327 being slightly flatter. Compare the flatest 327 & 357 reloads and will find the 357 has less drop.

The 357 with 125 bullets can be loaded to some impressive speeds http://handloads.com/loaddata/default.asp?Caliber=357%20Magnum&Weight=125&type=Handgun&Order=Velocity&Source=

[Alferd Packer]

32s are economical on lead for sure.
The .32s stand alone in their niche and offer the handloader many avenues to pursue.
Accurate, low recoil , the best for small game and fun to shoot.
The new .327 surpasses the 32-20 and the 25-20 for game .
Not worried about self defense, but any firearm depends on shot placement.
A .327 in the brisket or forehead would cause a greivous wound.
Any owner who had one and said they got rid of it because it didn't do what they expected, is just an uninformed shooter.
Most shooters say they wish they hadn't got rid of it.
The ammo is lighter to carry and takes up less space.
I make no comparisons to .38 or -357 . The 32 does what i want in the niche where it sits very well.
I love it as well as the Henry rifle in .327.
That rifle will be the reduced load, catsneeze shooter to replace my 30 calibers.
Expensive, but well made high quality.
Just my 2cents.

[sixshot]

Shot an Antelope last fall with my 8 shot 327 using a 135 gr cast HP at 73 yds. One shot through both lungs,she got turned around & took one step & down. Complete penetration.

Dick

[Green Frog]

Shot an Antelope last fall with my 8 shot 327 using a 135 gr cast HP at 73 yds. One shot through both lungs,she got turned around & took one step & down. Complete penetration.

Dick

Sounds like the theoretical and range info holds up in the field! ;-) That big old BH 8 shooter is a stud hoss, isn’t it? At first I wasn’t too sure whether I would like it, but mine sorta grew on me. I wouldn’t want to give it up now. :Fire:

Froggie

[Walks]

I've had a Ruger SSM for 30+yrs, shot everything in it from .32S&W up to .32H&R Mag loaded beyond book. Even shove a couple of .32ACP's into see if they really do work.

I'd buy one of the 7 1/2" Ruger's in .327Mag if it wsn't a 7 shooter. Like the idea of 2 more inches of bbl over my 5 1/2" H&R.
For me Revolvers are either 5 shots or a 6 Shooter. I do like the idea of the 7 1/2" bbl though.

Just My Opinion.

[trapper9260]

Shot an Antelope last fall with my 8 shot 327 using a 135 gr cast HP at 73 yds. One shot through both lungs,she got turned around & took one step & down. Complete penetration.

Dick

This is good to know for what it dose on a animal and at how far tells me what I was wondering about ,I have a 8 shot BH when they came out and like it,I am glad I got it for how it is now. I am making payments on a SP101 in 4". I know it is hard to find data for that size boolit. I have a 121 size one I work on my BH. Also had a Handi rifle made to shoot 327 mag. The adventure looks great.

[Thundarstick]

I've had a Ruger SSM for 30+yrs, shot everything in it from .32S&W up to .32H&R Mag loaded beyond book. Even shove a couple of .32ACP's into see if they really do work.

I'd buy one of the 7 1/2" Ruger's in .327Mag if it wsn't a 7 shooter. Like the idea of 2 more inches of bbl over my 5 1/2" H&R.
For me Revolvers are either 5 shots or a 6 Shooter. I do like the idea of the 7 1/2" bbl though.

Just My Opinion.

I've got A BUNCH of 327 guns, and do have the 71/2 inch single seven, on the single seven it almost feels like a buntline barrel! It's my least favourite 327, but different courses for different horses! O, and 5,6,7,8,9,10, are all good numbers in a wheel gun! ;-)

[megasupermagnum]

This is good to know for what it dose on a animal and at how far tells me what I was wondering about ,I have a 8 shot BH when they came out and like it,I am glad I got it for how it is now. I am making payments on a SP101 in 4". I know it is hard to find data for that size boolit. I have a 121 size one I work on my BH. Also had a Handi rifle made to shoot 327 mag. The adventure looks great.

The heaviest bullet you will find in a reloading manual is 115 grains, as you are aware. Fortunately, many of us have realized what a waste such a light bullet is in this caliber, and finding data online for 135 and 140 grain bullets is no longer difficult. The 32 sledgehammer is a 140 grain solid or 135 grain HP, and has been around long enough you shouldn't have any troubles with it.

[jrayborn]

The .327 absolutely SHINES with a heavy bullet. The sledgehammer is a great bullet as is the Mjolnir.