32-20 Handloads in Handloader Magazine

[terryt]

Hi:

Has anyone read and used the loads in the recent Handloader Magazine for 32-20?

I have a Model 92 Winchester made in 1901 and would like to know what anyone thinks about these loads doing well in a 92.

The rifle used in the test was a Savage Model 23. I wish he had used a Model 92 instead.

Thanks,

Terryt

[ndnchf]

I don't have that magazine, but tonight I just loaded 50 rounds of 32-20 using 4.2gr of Unique over a Lyman 311008. It's a sweet load in my M1889 Marlin and good for around 1100fps.

[Idaho Mule]

terryt, I have read the article. All the loads he suggests for the Colt Army Special or Savage 23 should do just fine in your 92, safety wise. As old as your gun is (1901), I would suggest that you stick to cast, but that is up to you. In the Savage section, John lists a load of 5 gr. Unique under a 113 gr. Cast Performance with a mv of 1333 fps. out of his 24" brl on the Savage. That would be a great place for you to start. Obviously you want to stay away from the Contender stuff. JW

[Outpost75]

In the '92 Winchester just stuff in all the 4198 or RL7 you can get into the case and cut loose. You can't get enough of those slower burners in there to get into any trouble, but they work great. I load my .44-40 the same way.

[salvadore]

I use a 3.7gr 231 and a plain base 3118 style for both my Marlin and Colt OP. Depending on your bore condition, you might want to go with a gas check design. Barness' article was entertaining and if your shooter is sound his 23 and Colt loads should be OK.

[northmn]

Most loads in magazines are modest due to liability and Barsness is one of the few writers I still appreciate today. Back when your 92 was made Winchester started making hotter loads for the 92 and marked them as such. Dropped them because many used them in 73's and pistols. I really do not use very hot loads in my 32-20 and tend to stay within the lower levels at about 1300 fps. It kind of defines the little caliber.

DP

[terryt]

Hi:

Thanks for the information.

The barrel in my gun is near new if not new. It has been fired very little.

Terryt

[50target]

TerryT, I put together a few of the Green Dot 4.5 gr loads, which in a lot of manuals is max. I am using a Lyman 3118 bullet and will try them tomorrow after church. The AA#9 interests me and should meter well. I have a Uberti Low Wall and this is my second range trip. I will post back here with my results on the Green Dot. I have been really impressed with AA1680 so far but it might be a little warm for your gun as it clocks over 1600 fps. It is Ken Waters good load but need a really strong action for it. As soon as I can find some AA#9 I'll try it.
Bob