King of the 32s?

[am44mag]

I'm starting to get the itch for a 32 cal revolver to carry around the homestead. Something that would be easy to carry, fast to shoot, and would be great for a little plinking. Not to mention dispatching the occasional snake, opossum, armadillo, or even coyote if one is ever ballsy enough to get that close.

There are four I'm looking into. The 32 S&W Long, 32 H&R Mag, 327 Fed Mag, and the 32-20 WCF. I feel all would be up to the task, but there can only be one king. I'm leaning towards the 327 Fed as it can shoot both the long and the H&R, while also outclassing even rifle only 32-20 in a much shorter barrel.

I have to say that a Ruger Single Seven in 327 Fed is very appealing, though a little pricey. What do you guys think?

https://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/images/718002098.jpg

[Texas by God]

.32 H&R in a 4-5/8" blue SSM is my favorite.32 of all I've owned.

[Eagle59]

I have a single seven and have been pleased with it. Easy shooting revolver.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Green Frog]

If money were no object, I would track down a Ruger Blackhawk 8-Shooter in 327 so it could, as you say, handle all the straight sided 32 cases from 32 S&W through S&W Long and H&R on the way to 327, with the semi-rimmed 32 ACP thrown in for good measure. Or I would more likely hunt up a Buckeye Special 32 Combo Blackhawk and ruin some of the originality by having the 32 H&R cylinder reamed to 327, giving me 32-20 with one cylinder and all the rest of the 32s with the other. I had one of the latter and sold it before the 327 was invented (not one of my finest moments) but the 8-shooter probably isn't going anywhere until my body reaches room temperature.

Oh yeah, if you want to have a S&W, a Model 66 can be converted with a rebored 617 barrel and cylinder. My "616" is pretty slick even if it doesn't shoot 32-20s.

Froggie

[am44mag]

After doing a little more looking, The Ruger SP101 with a 3" barrel is tempting too. I'm a sucker for DA revolvers, and it's small/light enough to be carried but still well suited for pest control and plinking. :D

[dragon813gt]

I own the Single Seven in all three barrel lengths and the SP101. I hate the SP101 as it has the worse trigger pull out of all of my handguns. Ruger also did a poor job finishing it. So between the two it’s not even a decision. Buy the Single Seven and don’t look back.

[Jeff Michel]

I like the new version of the SP101 overall except the sights, but it certainly will benefit from a trigger job, it's pretty bad out of the box. The Blackhawk and the Buckeye Special are great if you can find either at a reasonable price. Nice to have an interchangeable cylinder. Their biggest drawback is the weight and size. The Single 7 or SSM is probably the clear winner if your requirements are compact, accurate and relative cost. The SSM is a tad lighter and doesn't handle .327 which may or may not matter. For me, it doesn't, .32 mag is plenty good around the farm.

[Hickory]

I have shot the 327 and it is very impressive. It has the velocity for flat shooting out to 75 yards and beyond for varmint size animals. I use 75 yards as a distance that a lot of pistol shooters might be able to hit a pop can more times than not.
The drawback is the noise and muzzle blast when you touch off the trigger. This would not be a factor in a carry gun, because you might never shoot it. But, for using it around the homestead on a regular basis, you'd have wear hearing protection, because you might be using it several times per day and in a lot of cases you might not have time to put in ear plugs. Not good for your hearing.
My choice would be for the 32 magnum. In most guns it is only 150-200 fps slower than the 327 Federal and will dispatch varmints at the same distance as the 327.

The lesser mentioned 32's have their own nitch, but, with a shorter range to be effective.

My thoughs are, get the caliber that you can shoot well at 75 yards without flinching.

[trapper9260]

I say the 327 because of all the other 32's you can shoot in it so it is 5 guns in one. I have the 327BH and it have the 8 rounds in it.I am happy with it. that I had a handi rifle made in 327 .

[marlin39a]

32/20 for handgun and rifle. For over 100 yrs.

[dg31872]

I have the Single Seven that I stoke with 32 H&R and a Blackhawk 30 carbine that I load with 32-20.
Honestly, I find that I usually grab the Single Seven when going out at night to check our animals, but if I thought I might encounter a target of opportunity of the swine variety, I would chose the 32-20.
I have put more than my share of hogs down with the 32-20 and would feel under gunned with the 32 H&R.

[Guesser]

I have guns, SA, DA, blued, SS, Old, New; that cover all the cartridges listed and all the brands mentioned. Of the ones I own I would go with a Colt Army Special in 32-20. I've had 6 guns in 327, good, several in 32 Mag, good, a bunch in 32 Long, love them all. But if there was only one.....it would be a 6" Colt AS.

[GhostHawk]

I have been looking for a pistol with 6" barrel that would shoot either the .32 H&R or the .327 fed.

I have yet to find one that appeals to me enough to pry the cash out of my pocket.

I have a pair of H&R Revolvers, 732,733 2.5 inch barrels and I love shooting the .32sw long in both.
And if I did ever find that paragon of revolvers I would likely mostly shoot .32sw longs in it. Would love to have longer barrel, sight radius, better sights. But I have less than 300$ for both of those snubbies together. I just don't see spending 4 times that much for a 4 inch longer barrel. Call me cheap.

Someday something will come along and change my mind. Patience is a virtue.
For now I really love the .32sw long. Virtually no recoil, muzzle blast or noise. Just wish I'd gotten wise 30 years sooner.

I love ruger's guns but dang they seem to be pricey these days.

[Drm50]

The S&W model 16, K32 is the king of .32 Revovers. Myself I am looking for a 1905 HE Target
in 32/20wcf.

[Thundarstick]

I have had a bunch of 32H&R pistols that eventually went down the road for something new and sparkly I thought I wanted worse. Two I wish I had never traded, a Taurus target revolver that was a factory rebore 32 S&WL, and a Ruger Bisley with adjustable sights. When the 327FM hit the streets I jumped on a big ole Black Hawk 8 shooter, now I own a Taurus snub (that's my wife's), both the SP101 variants, both the GP100 variants, the 5 and 7 inch Single Seven, a S&W 632 stainless (my carry gun), a Henry carbine and just brought home yesterday a Bisley Single Seven! So that makes 11 327FM firearms, so of course I will have to vote 327FM. Any of these will handle any of the 32 straight walled rounds, unlike the 32-20 (that you can't stuff 7 of into a 22LR size handgun), if your a reloader you can go mild to wild with the same brass as well. I put the new 327FM Bisley up next to my old 22LR Bisley and other than the roll markings and the 22LR having an inch longer barrel there almost twins, but with 6 rounds 22LR vs 7 rounds of 327FM in the same size gun! Shooting the Henry carbine you'd think you where shooting a 30 carbine lever action, and it'll almost field dress a raccoon at the same time! As mentioned, the draw back to the 327FM is the high pressure muzzle blast that is just short of a 357Mag. I've actually shot an opossum with one of mine, not having muffs at hand, thinking "this is gonna hurt me almost as much as you"! The 32-20 and 30 carbine is rite there with the 327FM in that respect as well, but you can't choose to go with a short case. IMO, the 32S&W wad cutters (as well as a 22LR) are plenty for most barn yard bandits, till you move up to coyotes, feral dogs, etc, and hogs will depend on there size and how close you are.

[Thundarstick]

The Taurus I traded was a copy of the 16 S&W, with the cylinders bored longer and the barrel stamped 32H&R Mag. Still kicking myself for that one 15 years later!

[Outpost75]

Colt M1903 Pocket Hammerless Type II

222453222454222455

[am44mag]

Thanks for the heads up on the SP101 trigger. I'm not a gun snob by any means, but a decent trigger on a revolver is something I consider a necessity. I'm back to the Single Seven or MAYBE the GP100. Looked for a Blackhawk, but the only one I found was $700, and that was the STARTING bid...

[Green Frog]

Mr 75 sir,

If I were going to get a 32 semi-auto, I’d look hard at the old Browning Model 1922. It looks kinda like a squirt gun, but seems to work really well. I’ve had a couple over the years and sure miss ‘em. :cry:

Speaking of oddball 32 semi-autos, I also like the Hungarian Femaru, but that chambering always seems to be “Nazi marked” and priced accordingly by the collectors’ market. :???:

Your friend the Frog

[Wheelguns 1961]

The single seven is everything you are asking for. I just picked up one with a 4.6” barrel. It is a very accurate gun if you match bullet diameter to throat size. The sp101 has a lousy trigger. The blackhawk is too heavy. I also have a .32hrm bisley, while a great gun, it is just not as handy as the short single seven, and the .327 is even more versatile than the rest.

[sixshot]

The Blackhawks won't get any cheaper, get one while you can, it will hold it's value. I say the Single Six in the 32 maggie, it's quiet & a pound of powder will last a long time. I shoot 3 grs of WST at about 950 fps in mine with a 100 gr cast. It will handle lots of small game, no recoil, the grandkids love it & it's an easy packing six gun in a Barranti cross draw. Probably shot close to 100 grouse with it & you can eat the bullet hole.

Dick

[Outpost75]

Mr 75 sir,

If I were going to get a 32 semi-auto, I’d look hard at the old Browning Model 1922. It looks kinda like a squirt gun, but seems to work really well. I’ve had a couple over the years and sure miss ‘em. :cry:

Speaking of oddball 32 semi-autos, I also like the Hungarian Femaru, but that chambering always seems to be “Nazi marked” and priced accordingly by the collectors’ market. :???: Your friend the Frog

M1922 Browning was not natural pointer for me, grip angle wrong and in panic grab-point-shoot grip safety function was inconsistent. Over the years have tried three of them and never had one completely reliable with anything other than Euro hardball.

If I couldn't have a Colt I would go for a Beretta M1935 with the recoil spring replaced with one from a .380 ACP M1934, great for the "Buffalo" loads. I have several...

222456222457222458

[Dan Cash]

In a revolver, a new Cimarron 1873 clone in .32-20 is a superlative weapon for under $500. A Colt Army Special or the newer Official Police are fine doublaction choices for the .32-20 and will handle rifle level loads with out strain. .32-20 punch from an auto; look at a CZ52 in 7.62x25. It will probably need a trigger job but the gun is basically accurate and powerful. In other autos for the lesser .32, I second the vote for the Beretta which is a sweet and reliable pistol that is still affordable. If you can stand the tariff, the Colt 1903 is as good as they get.

[mattw]

Hunt up an old school 631 with a 4" or 5" tube and never look back! Great trigger, small package and more than strong enough for the 32 mag.

[shooting on a shoestring]

The King of the 32s is definitely the 327. But that whole family is royalty!

I have Hand Ejectors in 32 SWL that are just plain fun. I’ve also got a couple of J Frames in 32 SWL. My 4 inch one made the fastest DRT on a possum I’ve ever seen. It was the RCBS 98 gr wadcutter through the front shoulders at about 850 FPS. Love my 32SWLs.

There’s a pair of 32 H&R SSMs in my herd. They aren’t going anywhere without me. I’ve pushed that wadcutter over 1400 FPS out of one. Usually run the NOE 315008 about 1000 FPS. Works real good.

The 327 though is the King. In my 4” GP100 7 shooter and 4” SP101 6 shooter I run NOE 315118 GC’d at 1550. Yes it’s a magnum! In my LCR snub I back it off to the NOE 315008 at 1100 FPS. It’s a wicked snubby! The 327 is the loud mouth 32. Terribly noisy! But it’s a magnum! It’s also the 32 for suited for defensive use. But you’ll need to learn sign language if you have to use it indoors.

The 32 SWL is the most fun. It’s the Prince!

[am44mag]

M1922 Browning was not natural pointer for me, grip angle wrong and in panic grab-point-shoot grip safety function was inconsistent. Over the years have tried three of them and never had one completely reliable with anything other than Euro hardball.

If I couldn't have a Colt I would go for a Beretta M1935 with the recoil spring replaced with one from a .380 ACP M1934, great for the "Buffalo" loads. I have several...

222456222457222458

I have a Beretta 1935 circa 1951 IIRC. Great little shooter, and a wonderfully designed field stripping procedure. I've never been overly happy with the performance of 32 ACP though. It has it's uses nonetheless.


In a revolver, a new Cimarron 1873 clone in .32-20 is a superlative weapon for under $500. A Colt Army Special or the newer Official Police are fine doublaction choices for the .32-20 and will handle rifle level loads with out strain. .32-20 punch from an auto; look at a CZ52 in 7.62x25. It will probably need a trigger job but the gun is basically accurate and powerful. In other autos for the lesser .32, I second the vote for the Beretta which is a sweet and reliable pistol that is still affordable. If you can stand the tariff, the Colt 1903 is as good as they get.

I have a Tokarev in 7.62x25. It's got a few kinks I'm currently working though, but it should make a nice shooter once I get it to chamber ammo reliably.

[EMC45]

The King of the 32s is definitely the 327. But that whole family is royalty!

I have Hand Ejectors in 32 SWL that are just plain fun. I’ve also got a couple of J Frames in 32 SWL. My 4 inch one made the fastest DRT on a possum I’ve ever seen. It was the RCBS 98 gr wadcutter through the front shoulders at about 850 FPS. Love my 32SWLs.

There’s a pair of 32 H&R SSMs in my herd. They aren’t going anywhere without me. I’ve pushed that wadcutter over 1400 FPS out of one. Usually run the NOE 315008 about 1000 FPS. Works real good.

The 327 though is the King. In my 4” GP100 7 shooter and 4” SP101 6 shooter I run NOE 315118 GC’d at 1550. Yes it’s a magnum! In my LCR snub I back it off to the NOE 315008 at 1100 FPS. It’s a wicked snubby! The 327 is the loud mouth 32. Terribly noisy! But it’s a magnum! It’s also the 32 for suited for defensive use. But you’ll need to learn sign language if you have to use it indoors.

The 32 SWL is the most fun. It’s the Prince!

Great post! I will say the .32 Mag is pretty loud as well. It has it's own loudness like the .357 Magnum. Ear ringing loud for sure. I also agree with your assertion that the .32 S&W-L is the Prince. It really is a grand caliber!

[Outpost75]

I have a Beretta 1935 circa 1951 IIRC. Great little shooter, and a wonderfully designed field stripping procedure. I've never been overly happy with the performance of 32 ACP though. It has it's uses nonetheless. I have a Tokarev in 7.62x25. It's got a few kinks I'm currently working though, but it should make a nice shooter once I get it to chamber ammo reliably.

3 grains of AutoComp with the .309" diameter Hornady XTP at 0.955" OAL in the .32 ACP will get you 950 ps from your 3.4" Beretta 1935. In the TT33 in 7.62x25 7.4 grains of AutoComp with the same bullet gives you 1450 fps. XTP expands some, to about .40 cal in the .32 and is deep penetrator, much better than the 60-grainers. In 7.62x25 it is "da bomb!"

[wildcatter]

My 32 S&W Long is a fun gun to plink with,
222503

But yo me king of the hill means it is giving up nothing to others, in this case I'm pretty happy with my choice of 327 Federal,, I can load it mild, but it is no slough when loaded wild and stretches it's leg's a little with a 132 grn Penta HP @ over 1540 fps,,,
222504

Can hold it's own out past 100 yards with this load quite well,,,
222505

For me the 327 Federal in a GP-100 or Blackhawk woulf be my choice for King in 32 caliber, if I want top's in performance out of wheel gun.

[Wheelguns 1961]

The single seven is everything you are asking for. I just picked up one with a 4.6” barrel. It is a very accurate gun if you match bullet diameter to throat size. The sp101 has a lousy trigger. The blackhawk is too heavy. I also have a .32hrm bisley, while a great gun, it is just not as handy as the short single seven, and the .327 is even more versatile than the rest.

I forgot to mention that I picked up my single seven for $520 all in out the door.

[Walks]

I've had a SSM 5 1/2" for 30yrs. It's been a fun little gun. All my kids transitioned to it from a Single-6ix in .22LR and then onto a S&W K- Frame & COLT SAA.

I had a .32 RUGER BISLEY for a while. Used it with hot .32WCF level loads. Wish I'd kept it. Let another COWBOY SHOOTER con me out of it, so as to have a matched pair. I've lost more good guns to my so called "friends". GEEZ I gotta get a better "class" of friends. Except at my age they seem to be dying off or moving away, faster than I can make new ones.
But I learned enough to know if I want more power I'll go to a HOT .38SPL or .357MAG. My old hands are beat up enough by Super Hot Loads in big calibers when I was young & stupid.

[dhom]

I voted for the 327 Fed because it has the ability to shoot them all. Why not have all the options?

[James Wisner]

I have a blued Ruger SSM in the 4 5/8" barrel for a number of years now, really nice shooter and easy to pack.

Am in the process of rebuilding a old Colt Officers Model Match ( 1962 ) into a 32 H&R, new barrel and ream a 22 cylinder out.

Then I stumbled into one of the rare ones, and it is coming to my FFL buddy next week.
A Colt Officers Model Heavy Barrel made in 1939 in 32 Police, which is Colts version of the 32 S&W long caliber. They only made that model in that caliber in 1939 and 1940, only 1000 units. I have been wanting one of those for about 40 years.

An am also in the process of rebuilding a Marlin 1892 rifle into a 32 S&W.

Yes the 32's have a sweet spot in many of our hearts
JW

[JoeJames]

My 32 S&W Long is a fun gun to plink with,
222503

But yo me king of the hill means it is giving up nothing to others, in this case I'm pretty happy with my choice of 327 Federal,, I can load it mild, but it is no slough when loaded wild and stretches it's leg's a little with a 132 grn Penta HP @ over 1540 fps,,,
222504

Can hold it's own out past 100 yards with this load quite well,,,
222505

For me the 327 Federal in a GP-100 or Blackhawk woulf be my choice for King in 32 caliber, if I want top's in performance out of wheel gun.Not meaning to disagree with your choice, but just wanted to mention that your picture of the Smith J frame in the top photo got me envious. I picked up a 1903 hand ejector a few months ago and have enjoyed plinking with 98 gr. SWC loads, but your newer Smith has me thinking about getting one. It is pertier than a speckled pup under a red wagon.

[Guesser]

A few posts back someone mentioned wanting to find a 6" 32 revolver. This is mine, the only one I own in 32 Police. 1917 Police Positive. Lovely, lovely shooter.

[RED BEAR]

i have fell in love with 32s lately. my favorite is the old 32sw but that is not on your list . the 327 will shoot all others but optimal accuracy will usually only e had witj 327 the rest may suffer due to longer bullet jump ( may still give good enough accuracy). if cost is no object then this is probably for you i prefer the 32 long because i think it would do anything you are wanting it to do and do it cheaply. check the price of ammo and reloading brass. the 32 long is the most economical of the bunch. l also love the colt hammerless and you can sometimes find one on gunbroker at a fair price. i also like the cz 50 and 70 although they can sometimes be finicky. the sw short may not fit the bill but it is awful fun to shoot.

[Outpost75]

I have to agree with Red Bear. The attraction for me of the .32s is their low noise and recoil. Those who try to load them hot until their report is ear piercing defeat the entire purpose of a mild, small game cartridge. Full charge loads in the .327 destroy any sort of edible small game, it is a varmint load, pure and simple. Not my choice for defense, either.

The .32 H&R Magnum as originally factory-loaded, to approximate black powder .32-20 revolver ballistics in a stronger, efficient case of correct capacity to produce a SUBSONIC revolver load with 100-grain lead bullet was ideal. In a strong, postwar .32 S&W Long revolver you can do the same thing, but heavier loads which approximate .38 Special +P should not be fired in the older Colt Pocket Positives and S&W M1903 .32 Hand Ejectors. While the Colt Pocket Hammerless is my favorite, I love my .32 revolvers too, obligatory eye candy attached:

222514222515222516222517222518

[JoeJames]

I have to agree with Red Bear. The attraction for me of the .32s is their low noise and recoil. Those who try to load them hot until their report is ear piercing defeat the entire purpose of a mild, small game cartridge. Full charge loads in the .327 destroy any sort of edible small game, it is a varmint load, pure and simple. Not my choice for defense, either.

The .32 H&R Magnum as originally factory-loaded, to approximate black powder .32-20 revolver ballistics in a stronger, efficient case of correct capacity to produce a SUBSONIC revolver load with 100-grain lead bullet was ideal. In a strong, postwar .32 S&W Long revolver you can do the same thing, but heavier loads which approximate .38 Special +P should not be fired in the older Colt Pocket Positives and S&W M1903 .32 Hand Ejectors. While the Colt Pocket Hammerless is my favorite, I love my .32 revolvers too, obligatory eye candy attached:

222514222515222516222517222518Looks to me like you have an old Tyler T grip on some of yours. I have an old one rattling around for a J frame. I was just wondering if it would fit a hand ejector I frame. Just curious.

[Mac118]

I like my Colt New Police in 32. It's the only 32 handgun I own and is a recent acquisition. But with the handful of reloads I got with it, I really like the overall shooting experience!

[Thumbcocker]

Model 30 and 30-1 Smiths are cute as a bugs ear and will shoot scary well at 25 yards if you can see the sights and hold them steady.

[Outpost75]

Looks to me like you have an old Tyler T grip on some of yours. I have an old one rattling around for a J frame. I was just wondering if it would fit a hand ejector I frame. Just curious.

If your T-grip is for an "early" J-frame or "modified I-frame, pre-1957, it will fit. If cut for a modern J-frame it will "work" but won't fit perfectly. But fear not, Tyler Manufacturing is still in business http://www.t-grips.com/ FOR ORDERING, you may send in a personal check, postal money order, cashier's check, or bank money order to:

Tyler MFG, PO BOX 492, NEWALLA, OK 74857
PHONE NUMBER: 405-625-4992, Call, Leave a message, or text, phone hours: M-F 1 PM to 5 PM CST
tylermfg@gmail.com

Not "in stock" for immediate shipment, but worth the wait, they can make to order for you a T-grip to fit the older S&W I-frame. Delivery is about 30 days. They are also the only game in town to properly fit the pre-1940 Colt Police Positives, Pocket Positive and New Service, here are a few more of mine, excuse the thread drift, these are .38 S&W/Colt New Polices:

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[EMC45]

Model 30 and 30-1 Smiths are cute as a bugs ear and will shoot scary well at 25 yards if you can see the sights and hold them steady.

I agree. I have both and they both shoot very well.

[jimkim]

I love the little S&W revolvers, but what I really want is this!!!

https://youtu.be/qV3wr2ABoRg

Sent from my VS880 using Tapatalk

[megasupermagnum]

I just got out to try my new 5" GP100 327 federal. 120 grain cast SWC and 12 grains of AA #9 provides 1490 FPS average, and a 145 grain "SSK" style gas check went 1280 FPS average with 10 grains AA #9. With this kind of performance, I wouldn't feel scared to use it on deer at all. I can't say that about any other 32.

[am44mag]

I just got out to try my new 5" GP100 327 federal. 120 grain cast SWC and 12 grains of AA #9 provides 1490 FPS average, and a 145 grain "SSK" style gas check went 1280 FPS average with 10 grains AA #9. With this kind of performance, I wouldn't feel scared to use it on deer at all. I can't say that about any other 32.

How's the trigger on it?

[megasupermagnum]

How's the trigger on it?

Much better than my SP101, but not as good as a number of other GP100's I've handled. The double action is much more impressive. The single action has no creep, but seems too heavy, maybe 5 pounds. It's only had 55 rounds through it though. A lot of guys say they don't like the grips. I am happy with them. The shape fits good, maybe a little small for my giant meat claws. They don't seem to ride up in the hand while shooting at all like others were saying. The gold bead front sight it kind of pointless. I just ignore the bead and it is a plain old black blade. I'm going to see if I can't take the bead out, and paint the blade orange.

[Dale53]

I am a BIG fan of .32’s for range and small game use. However, that, to me, means a 100 gr WC or SWC AT 850-950 fps. Like most hunters, I didn’t normally wear ear protection while hunting. I have ZERO desire of a one shot “eardrum shattering” 1500 fps magnum of any caliber for general small game use.

My 631, a truly great little revolver which will shoot either a .32 S&W Long or a .32 H&R case and bullet loaded to the above specs (850-950 fps) with accuracy of less than an inch at 25 yards. That combination just flat works.

This is an SP101 with a red dot sight. After a trigger job, this also works extremely well. I gifted my grandson with this and his grin after shooting it with modest loads is priceless.

Then, the S&W 16-4 in .32 H&R Mag. This has been an extemely satisfying handgun for both “on the range and in the field.

http://i269.photobucket.com/albums/jj80/Dale53/DalesPistolsRevolvers4Selects-0330.jpg (http://s269.photobucket.com/user/Dale53/media/DalesPistolsRevolvers4Selects-0330.jpg.html)

http://i269.photobucket.com/albums/jj80/Dale53/DalesPistolsRevolvers5Selects-0261.jpg (http://s269.photobucket.com/user/Dale53/media/DalesPistolsRevolvers5Selects-0261.jpg.html)

http://i269.photobucket.com/albums/jj80/Dale53/4DalesPistolsRevolversSelects-3322.jpg (http://s269.photobucket.com/user/Dale53/media/4DalesPistolsRevolversSelects-3322.jpg.html)

Dale53

[megasupermagnum]

For small game, and most of my target shooting, I've been using 3.5 grains of American select (or 700X). No doubt a magnum is ear splitting. I can't tell the difference between the 327, 357, 41, or 44 mags. Luckily I wear a thick hat when deer hunting, which at least keeps my ears from ringing more than a few minutes. Now the 454 Casull, that is an obnoxious cartridge, especially with a muzzle brake. You don't just hear it, you feel the pressure wave.

[Dale53]

There have been complaints of the .327 when used with less than full loads. Velocity swings of more than 100 fps with accuracy problems. That would disqualify the .327 for me. On the other hand, I have had no such problem with either the .32 S&W Long or the .32 H&R.

FWIW
Dale53

[megasupermagnum]

From who? Can't be case size, 32 H&R is only .125" shorter.

Fed 100
3.5 grains American Select
120 grain SWC

Velocity from my 3" SP101 was in the ballpark 1000-1100 fps. Standard deviation is better than anything else I've tried, under 10 FPS. The one and only load that provides huge velocity swings I've found is 6-6.5 grains of Bluedot. At 5.8 grains it shoots decent, but dirty. At 7.2-7.4 grains it is clean and fairly consistent.

Accuracy from my 16.5" barrel Henry is very consistent at 1.5" at 50 yards. I'm not nearly as good with a handgun, but I had no problems keeping them under 3" at 25 yards with my new GP100.

Other things to note about 327...
Federal 100 primers seem to get really flat, but it's not as bad with very slow powders like H110 or AA #9. CCI 500's seem to be the most consistent performers, and are much thicker.
All sizing dies size to about .330" (my Lee sized to just under .329"), when .334" would be more than sufficient. I've just started sizing with a FCD, then "neck" sizing with the other die. I had problems with split cases and sticky extraction that seems to have been taken care of entirely by doing this.
I've found that the 100 grain XTP turns to shrapnel when launched at high velocities, at least in dirt. Not a good bullet for the rifles.

[Dale53]

Mega;
The Handloader - gentleman wrote in complaining about it and Brian Pierce agreed that he had seen it, also. 1/8” in that relatively small caliber CAN make a difference.

Me, I will continue to be MORE than happy with my .32 S&W Long and .32 H&R cases.

Hey! To each his own, I always say...;-)

Dale53

[megasupermagnum]

Mega;
The Handloader - gentleman wrote in complaining about it and Brian Pierce agreed that he had seen it, also. 1/8” in that relatively small caliber CAN make a difference.

Me, I will continue to be MORE than happy with my .32 S&W Long and .32 H&R cases.

Hey! To each his own, I always say...;-)

Dale53

The only piece I know of is by Brian Pierce, and after looking at it, he does talk about erratic velocities, but he stated it had to do with weak jacketed and plated bullets. Here is the article. https://loaddata.com/articles/PDF/LD-13%20Pearce%20LR1.pdf It is something to keep in mind. As I've said plenty of times, good 32 caliber bullets are holding the 327 federal back. Us casters are taking full advantage, but the normal guy cant. The best you can buy from the local store is the 100gr XTP. The 115gr gold dot was much better, and a 125 or 135 grain soft point or hollow point for hunting bigger game like hogs, deer, etc. would do a good service to all 32's.

Maybe you have a point on the 32 S&W, I've never gone below 3 grains of anything. I can say with authority that you can load 327 federal brass to 32 H&R levels, and have accuracy every bit as good.

[wildcatter]

Not meaning to disagree with your choice, but just wanted to mention that your picture of the Smith J frame in the top photo got me envious. I picked up a 1903 hand ejector a few months ago and have enjoyed plinking with 98 gr. SWC loads, but your newer Smith has me thinking about getting one. It is pertier than a speckled pup under a red wagon.

No disrespect but Please,,, That is a 6" GP-100!

[megasupermagnum]

No disrespect but Please,,, That is a 6" GP-100!

You are getting 1540 FPS with that 132 grain bullet? That is cooking! Now my mind is turning with ideas of a 140gr+ hollow point.

[tinstarfirearms]

For what the OP is talking about, I would suggest the Ruger LCR in .327. I rarely shoot full power .327 Federal in mine but it is perfect for a bib pocket or jacket pocket with the enclosed hammer. My most common revolver to grab for putting down a raccoon is a S&W #30 in .32 Long. I made a pile of the raccoons that had been feasting on my chickens in the past.

Andrew

[Walks]

Megasupermagnum,

If you load .32 S &W then you will definitely go below 3 grains of powder. I load 1.1 grains of BULLSEYE under a 78gr LYMAN #311252 to shoot in a old S & W Lemon Squeezer Break Top, chambered in .32 Short & Wimpy. I've put about 100 rounds thru it in the last 40yrs. Most all of it in COWBOY ACTION SHOOTING Side Matches. My Mother gave it to me after her Mother passed on. My Grandma had carried in her purse for 50yrs. It was in a custom made holster, velvet lined in her purse. I believe a shoemaker probably fitted the special holster to each new purse. It was Nickel Plated with Mother of Pearl grips with Factory S&W Medallions. It was in 90% condition and clean as could be. Had 6 rounds of REM-UMC ammo in it, Copper-Coated RN. I found the ammo box in a REAL hatbox in her closet. 25rds of ammo & 20 empty cases. She definitely new how to use it. There was a BEAUTIFUL Little WINCHESTER Model 62 in .22LR in a Tooled Leather Saddle Scabbard in the closet too. Found ammo in the hatbox for it too.
My kids started shooting that RUGER SSM WITH that .32 S&W BULLSEYE load. Only .32 S&W load I've ever used. I use a .32 S&W LONG medium load for most of the shooting in it. But I always drybrush the chambers every time I shoot the longs so as to chamber the H&R cases without a problem. Use the SAECO 100gr SWC flat base for most of my H&R loads. And the Lee 93gr RN for the Longs.

Use that same LYMAN #311252 cast of straight Linotype over 2.3grs of BULLSEYE for the .32ACP. My COLT 1903 and french WALTHER PP both shoot to POI at 50ft with that load.

Yep, if your gonna shoot the little light .32 loads, ya better get used to tiny charges of powder. I use a LYMAN Model 55 Powder Measure. To throw those tiny charges of BULLSEYE. It's the only Measure I've found, reliable ENOUGH to do the job. I bought the extra small pistol rotor for my HORNADY L-N-L Powder Measure, I've yet to try it. I don't want to dismount the L-N-L from my PROGRESSIVE to try it for just the couple of hundred rounds that will probably last the rest of my life.

[megasupermagnum]

For what the OP is talking about, I would suggest the Ruger LCR in .327. I rarely shoot full power .327 Federal in mine but it is perfect for a bib pocket or jacket pocket with the enclosed hammer. My most common revolver to grab for putting down a raccoon is a S&W #30 in .32 Long. I made a pile of the raccoons that had been feasting on my chickens in the past.

Andrew

Being as I have the LCR and SP101 with fixed sights, they wont work for the OP. Unless you win the sight lottery, the fixed sights will more than likely be off, both mine are. I'd take a hard look at the 4.2" SP101. Nothing wrong with the single 7, but boy that cylinder is short. I think that 3" SP101 with a wind age adjustable sight is probably the best out there (Dale53 has one pictured). I wish I had known they quit that when I bought my 3" new.

[megasupermagnum]

@Walks

I have never tried 1 grain, I could see how that could be a problem in a 327, especially considering you could charge the same case 12 times or more and still seat a bullet! I also have a Lyman #55, and find it to do pretty well. Surprisingly, I've found the Lee perfect powder measure (the hand not the auto) to be better, at least with the flake powders I use. If you ever load rifle, the Lee is a godsend. That Lyman is a crunch box with stick powders.

[Thundarstick]

For those who may not be aware, and gripe about the DA trigger pulls on 327FM DA revolvers. The proper (factory) primer is a small rifle primer that takes more umph to reliably kick off, than a small pistol magnum primer. If you do trigger jobs where the hammer spring is reduced, you will likely start seeing FTFs with factory ammo. Been there, done that! This is why a GP100 in 357 has a better factory trigger pull, same as with DA rimfire revolvers, you've got to have that hard smack on the primer.

[RJM52]

...another .327 fan here... Had several .32 H&R Mags but just never bonded with any of them. Friend has a bunch of them and really loves them. But when the .327 came out the velocity really caught my attention...

Currently have:
Freedom Arms 97 6.5" barrel
S&W Model 53 6" converted by Jack Huntington to .327...is what S&W should be making.
Ruger SP-101 3" old model with the windage adjustable rear sight
Ruger LCR, ugly but what a great shooter...and...

Just lucked into a S&W 632-2 Pro. Some dealer had a BuyNow on it of $600.00. Had been seeing them for double that and immediately bought it...should be here on Tuesday...

Would also one day like to get a GP-100 in either the 4" stainless or 5" blue...

Bob

[Green Frog]

Dale53 always keeps his Model 631 locked up when I come to visit... HMMMM, I wonder if he’s afraid it might follow me home! He’s right, of course, and I fear I’ll never find one of my own, at least not one I could ever afford. The 327 goes well in my custom K-frame stainless, but Dale53 has just about convinced me that the J-frame and the 32 H&R are also just about a perfect fit.

Froggie

[wildcatter]

I think the 140 grain is the sweet spot for the longer cylinder revolvers like the GP, Blackhawk, FA, that can take advantage of these long nosed 140 grain bullets. allowing less pressure by allowing more powder space. Plus a need for the longer barrels available with these longer chamber cylinders.

I screwed up and got this 314-140 mold thinking 1300 fps would be stretching it, so went with the plain base. Now I am working with Mihec to get it in a gas check version. I had to go with PB checks which are more of a pain, and tend to flatten the nose some with the more pressure to seat them in HP version.

Just no way to get these numbers with the shorter cylinders in the single sevens and SP's or with shorter barrels, and the only reason I got this caliber was small game with the reduced loads in the 32 long brass, and step'n it up to reach out for vermin! I am very happy I went with the GP;s longer barrel and full lug heft.

[sixshot]

Didn't see my vote up there for the 32 maggie?

Dick

[Thundarstick]

Are you referring to the 32 H&R magnum?

I was on gun broker earlier and you'd think Ruger just came out with the 32H&R Bisley there are so many of them for sale! I wonder if it's because of the 327FM Bisley becoming available?

[megasupermagnum]

I think the 140 grain is the sweet spot for the longer cylinder revolvers like the GP, Blackhawk, FA, that can take advantage of these long nosed 140 grain bullets. allowing less pressure by allowing more powder space. Plus a need for the longer barrels available with these longer chamber cylinders.

I screwed up and got this 314-140 mold thinking 1300 fps would be stretching it, so went with the plain base. Now I am working with Mihec to get it in a gas check version. I had to go with PB checks which are more of a pain, and tend to flatten the nose some with the more pressure to seat them in HP version.

Just no way to get these numbers with the shorter cylinders in the single sevens and SP's or with shorter barrels, and the only reason I got this caliber was small game with the reduced loads in the 32 long brass, and step'n it up to reach out for vermin! I am very happy I went with the GP;s longer barrel and full lug heft.

Did accuracy fall off, or what was the problem with plain base?

[Dale53]

Brian Pearce's article in the Handloader #312 on page 14 in "Bullets and Brass" covers the problems with the .327 wide velocity swings.

FWIW
Dale53

[megasupermagnum]

I have an online subscription, but I can't get #312. I can get October 2017 and older, and the newest one, but not March. Any chance you would post the article here?

[Dale53]

mega;
Here is a link to my Dropbox and the article:

https://www.dropbox.com/s/uw05shfvbzg5g0h/.327%20Federal%20Velocity%20spreads.pdf?dl=0

Dale53

[megasupermagnum]

mega;
Here is a link to my Dropbox and the article:

https://www.dropbox.com/s/uw05shfvbzg5g0h/.327%20Federal%20Velocity%20spreads.pdf?dl=0

Dale53

Thank you.

I'm not sure what to make of it, but I can say I have not seen anything like that myself. I've seen one isolated load that produced EV's of over 150 fps, but nothing even close to the claimed over 250 fps. At that point I'd consider it a squib. Certainly nothing with H110, AA #9 or Lil' Gun. I'm not saying he is making things up, but that article I posted earlier (also by Pearce), there is a section where he tries 3 different primers with a number of mid-slow powders. Not a single load has over 94 FPS extreme spread, and plenty are in the 30's. I'd say my experiences mirror those results, and this myth of huge velocity swings is unfounded.

In voting for the so called king of 32's, I can see your point on 32 H&R magnum. I'd say the 327 federal is more of a mini 454 Casull, rather than a 357 magnum. Problems like slightly oversized chambers (or undersized brass), poor brass, and poor loads are really exaggerated once you get up to that 45k PSI.

[dragon813gt]

Now I have to chronograph my 327 Federal loads. I developed them before I bought a chronograph. It sure doesn’t seem like I was experiencing ES like that. The bullets hit the target where I was aiming which is the most important part. But now I’m wondering how my loads perform. I use one powder and one primer so it shouldn’t take long to test it.

[Outpost75]

I can't see that the .327 should be any more trouble to loads for and get good ballistic uniformity than for the .32-20 on the low end, or .30 M1 Carbine on the high end. Many people try to use powders which are unsuited for the conditions of loading. I have found that AutoComp does very well both in mild loads suited for the .32-20 Colt Police Positive as well as for higher velocity loads in the Ruger .30 Carbine Blackhawk and TT33 in 7.62x25. Your mileage may vary, but these are some loads in those various cartridges which work for me:

Standard Pressure .32-20 Loads for Rifle or Revolver

Bullet, Little Dandy#, Pdr. Chg.____Colt Police Positive 5”______Savage Sporter 25”

Rem-UMC 100-grain lead
Kleanbore “Dogbone” box 1930s___898, 44 Sd, 116 ES__________1302, 15 SD, 38 ES

Peters 100-grain softpoint
Kings Mills, Ohio 1940s__________870, 28, 71________________1150, 44, 137

Remington .311” 100-grain JSP___930 fps, 16 Sd, 45 ES________1230 fps, 26 Sd, 79 ES
LD#4, 4.9 grains AutoComp

Accurate 31-105T

LD#3, 4.5 grains AutoComp________912 fps, 19 Sd, 53 ES _______1260 fps, 21 Sd, 55 ES

LD#4, 4.9 grains AutoComp________ 943 fps, 32 Sd, 71 ES_______1315 fps, 32 Sd, 118 ES

Cast Bullet Loads in Ruger Blackhawk Revolver and US .30 Caliber M1 Carbine

Ammunition__________Ruger 7-1/2”___________US M1 Carbine 18”

WCC44 Ball M1_______1527, 21Sd, 58ES________1960, 23, 89

Accurate 31-087B
7.4 grs. AutoComp____1502 fps, 19, 52 _________1759 fps, 5 Sd, 23 ES

Accurate 31-100T
7.4 grs. AutoComp_____1527, 11, 29___________1692, 16, 54 Most accurate REVOLVER load

Accurate 31-120TG
7.4 grs. AutoComp_____1313, 33, 84__________1560, 15, 57

Velocity Test Data for 7.62x25 in TT33 - Handloads in Starline cases with CCI500 primers

Ammunition Description___________Vel@15ft., Sd, ES n=10
____________________________________TT33, 4.6”
Romanian Type P Ball, Factory 22, 1984____1461 fps, 27 Sd, 76ES

Yugoslav PPU Ball,_____________________1310, 26 Sd, 66ES

Hornady 86-grain SP, 7.4 grs. AutoComp___1353, 20, 71

Accurate 31-100T, 7.4 grs. AutoComp_____1450, 16, 50

[9.3X62AL]

A post-war 32 S&W Long can do everything I want a 32 caliber revolver to do. I have examples here of all 4 calibers listed, but most of the loading I do in 32 H&R and 327 shoot 100 grain SWCs in the 850-1000 FPS range--a thing the 32 Long can manage safely in a Colt or S&W so chambered. The 32/20 gets 115-120 grain bullets in the 800-900 FPS range.

[cwheel]

I'm with Outpost75 and prefer my old flatside 1903 32 auto. Not a powerhouse, but sure a joy to carry. If you are facing larger critters, gun requirements should be bigger than a 32 anyway.
Chris

[Earlwb]

They likely made more handguns that fired the 7.62x25 cartridge than all of the others combined. With a hollow point bullet or lead soft point bullet it might have been a game changer. The standard FMJ bullet could easily penetrate most bullet proof vests but it only made nasty little holes in people. With a good bullet and that high muzzle velocity it would have good stopping capability.

Also the .32 ACP probably had more handguns made for it than the other cartridges made for revolvers too.

[Dale53]

Al;
Again, we are on the same page. Now THAT’S downright scary!:D

Dale53

[9.3X62AL]

Al;
Again, we are on the same page. Now THAT’S downright scary!:D

Dale53

HA HA HA!

Now, most of us with one of the 327 Federals just have to take it out with the ear-splitter loads at least once. Marie and I did last winter, and got that nonsense driven right out of our heads. The SP-101 x 4.2" is just a short-barreled 30 Carbine Blackhawk, as far as report volume is concerned. It doesn't buck much when fired, but it might set off earthquakes in fault zones--so be careful.

The RCBS 32-98 SWC is just such an accurate bullet. Run that casting at 900 FPS and no small game animal or varmint will go far. These loads are far superior to any 22 LR bullet, even a rifle-fired CCI SGB. The little 32 bullet just hits harder and better.

[Dale53]

HA HA HA!

Now, most of us with one of the 327 Federals just have to take it out with the ear-splitter loads at least once. Marie and I did last winter, and got that nonsense driven right out of our heads. The SP-101 x 4.2" is just a short-barreled 30 Carbine Blackhawk, as far as report volume is concerned. It doesn't buck much when fired, but it might set off earthquakes in fault zones--so be careful.

The RCBS 32-98 SWC is just such an accurate bullet. Run that casting at 900 FPS and no small game animal or varmint will go far. These loads are far superior to any 22 LR bullet, even a rifle-fired CCI SGB. The little 32 bullet just hits harder and better.

That squares with my personal experience, too. I got off the .22 rimfire for field use when I was a young adult. I have never been disappointed with a proper small game load in my .32's and I used them a lot for that purpose.

FWIW
Dale53

[Thundarstick]

Rimfire only, if you want to stay on the side of the game laws here! :( I guess it's to keep some schmuck from shooting into the trees with a 30-30 or 223?

[JoeJames]

Did some shooting on Saturday at 15 yards off porch steps while my right eye is still clear. Just mostly to verify that the 2 grain bullseye load under a 98 grain lead swc and average velocity 660 fps, is to point of aim with the fixed sights. I have tried 2.1 grains of bullseye average = 690 fps, and 2.2 grains of bullseye average = 750 fps, and 2.3 grains win 231 average = 640 fps, 2.4 grains win 231 average = 680 fps. In dealing with fixed sights it appears the 2.0 grain bullseye load is best for my S&W handejector. On an earlier paper target off a pistol rest it appeared to be in there, but wanted to try it in a less than formal setting with a bottom side facing 4" cashew nut can as the target, trying to approximate field conditions. Note the vertical string which I ascribe to the tiny sights on it. The two larger holes = two rounds apiece.222674

[cwlongshot]

32/20 for handgun and rifle. For over 100 yrs.

100%!

The rest are Johnny come latelys!

LOVE my 32-20's!

I had a SMLE bbl added to a H&R single shot by a friend over on GB forums and its a shooter with the bigger 150g+ boolits! My orig Colt SA in 32-20 is a cherished family member!!

[Green Frog]

:coffeecom Well, the only thing we can say for sure is that this thread has proven once again that there is a 32 of one sort or another to make just about any of us happy! That's why I figure the gun that handles the widest variety of 32s is the most likely to satisfy the most folks... especially me! 8-)

Froggie

[9.3X62AL]

It is no accident that 32 caliber handgun threads tend to get lengthy on this site.

[RED BEAR]

cwheel you may want to check cast boolits stoping power . the 32acp comes in on par witj 38 spec. not sure why on paper they shouldn't maybe people that carry the 32 shoot better only thing i can come up with. had a 1903 sold it and regretted it ever sence.

[megasupermagnum]

cwheel you may want to check cast boolits stoping power . the 32acp comes in on par witj 38 spec. not sure why on paper they shouldn't maybe people that carry the 32 shoot better only thing i can come up with. had a 1903 sold it and regretted it ever sence.

I'm not sure what 38 special you are shooting. Closest on Hodgdon is 71 grain for the 32 ACP, and 77 grain for the 38 Special. The fastest 32 ACP is listed 937 FPS, and the slowest 38 special 1,193 FPS (starting load of titegroup). They are not even comparable.

[Ramjet-SS]

My 16-4 S&W HR converted to 327 Federal Magnum then customized is a fantastic handgun. I will not part with it.

[kgb]

I'm not sure what 38 special you are shooting. Closest on Hodgdon is 71 grain for the 32 ACP, and 77 grain for the 38 Special. The fastest 32 ACP is listed 937 FPS, and the slowest 38 special 1,193 FPS (starting load of titegroup). They are not even comparable.

I'd like to see the definition of "stopping" from which the data is generated. Energy and velocity can't be the criteria.

[megasupermagnum]

I can appreciate the lighter 32's, but let's be realistic.

Would you take a 32 acp hunting for medium size game? (deer, hogs, sheep, etc.) If not, then why would you expect it to immediately "stop" a human or larger animal? 38 special isn't the greatest either, but it is at least capable of sending a bullet all the way through a deer. Paul Harrell tests both the 38 special and 32 ACP. Even standard pressure 38 does a lot more damage, but as he says. You be the judge. It's better than a pointy stick, by far.

[one-eyed fat man]

... the 7.62x25 cartridge ... standard FMJ bullet could easily penetrate most bullet proof vests but it only made nasty little holes in people. With a good bullet and that high muzzle velocity it would have good stopping capability....

A 7.62 FMJ that gets through the vest is certainly likely to cause more disappointment to the new owner of a nasty little hole than a .44 mg hollowpoint embedded in the Kevlar. Truth be told, a PPS-43 submachinegun does not give away a whole bunch to an M2 carbine.

[Texas by God]

The difference in "toughness" of a wild animal and a human comes into play whenever you compare defense to hunting.
A 75 lb whitetail doe can kick a grown man's ash. Don't believe me? Jump in a hog trap with one!

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G930A using Tapatalk

[Outpost75]

A 7.62 FMJ that gets through the vest is certainly likely to cause more disappointment to the new owner of a nasty little hole than a .44 mg hollowpoint embedded in the Kevlar. Truth be told, a PPS-43 submachinegun does not give away a whole bunch to an M2 carbine.

Particularly since the Korean and Vietnam-era 7.62x25 Combloc ammo was mild steel core PS Ball.

I have a bit of the Cold War-era 7.65 Browning with the PS bullet and can tell you from testing that if the bad guys are armed with that ammo in .32 ACP you want something better than IIa.

222721

[am44mag]

Particularly since the Korean and Vietnam-era 7.62x25 Combloc ammo was mild steel core PS Ball.

I have a bit of the Cold War-era 7.65 Browning with the PS bullet and can tell you from testing that if the bad guys are armed with that ammo in .32 ACP you want something better than IIa.

222721

That's a mean looking round.

[megasupermagnum]

The difference in "toughness" of a wild animal and a human comes into play whenever you compare defense to hunting.
A 75 lb whitetail doe can kick a grown man's ash. Don't believe me? Jump in a hog trap with one!

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G930A using Tapatalk

This is getting off topic. I don't know why I would ever purposefully get in a trap with a tiny little deer, but I can think of worse things. A full grown 225 pound buck I'd rather not mess with. Even a cat can tear a person up if you let it, but one good boot and it's game over. When it comes to bullets, I stand by humans being every bit as "tough" as a deer. What we lack in fur, we make up in muscle mass, or fat for a lot of us.

The 32 ACP and 32 S&W are what they are. Phenomenal small game cartridges, with some use in fitting in small, handy guns. They are not 38 special, no more than 25 ACP is a 380 ACP.

Whether you think the handy guns and light recoil are the kings of 32's, or the outright horsepower of the 327 federal, that's up to you.

I don't really see the argument for 32-20, any more than 30 carbine. I'd like to hear from that side.

[Thundarstick]

Why o why would anyone want a 30 carbine in a revolver now days is beyond me. The only reason for the black hawk to exist was to use up cheep 30 carbine ammo in your little Iver Johnson and a handgun to go with it. The 327 really just steps all over the 30 carbine in a pistol platform IMO.

[dbmjr1]

Get yourself an old Colt Police Positive. Mine's in .32WCF It's a very light revolver, capable of taking anything up to small coyotes.

Mine was a Katrina rescue that I parkerized. Made in 1911, it's still capable of hitting plates at 25 yards. Bunnies, and other small game would be no issue.

222756

This is a very light revolver, that you'd hardly notice on your hip.

[rking22]

Well, I waited to read others comments to see if my thoughts would change. I voted 32sw due to the nice little kit guns its chambered in. 32hr would have been there but the J frames are too scarce with the 3 or 4 inch barrels. I've got a 3 inch 327 sp101 and like it but I load it like a 32hr. My 32WCF guns are rifles, but I think it would fall into that "just too loud" catagort for a kit gun. The S7 would be neat, I like my 32hr version, just too big and heavy for my likes as a kit gun. For use you described, I would look for a nice 31-1 4 inch, like mine. Rossi also made a M69 that is a J Frame clone in 3 inch. It shoots great and the price is right. Really would love a M31 in 32hr with adj sights, that would be "Just Right" !

[wildcatter]

You are getting 1540 FPS with that 132 grain bullet? That is cooking! Now my mind is turning with ideas of a 140gr+ hollow point.

That 132 grain HP is from the Mihec 140 grain 314-140 mold, with 10# co wheel weights, 2# Linotype, 3 oz. Tin Bullion, with a gas check.

[megasupermagnum]

I still think it is amazing the velocity you get from that, when the fastest I mess with right now are 119 grain actual weight SWC's, from a very similar alloy, and they barely hit 1500 fps from a book load. 1490 average with CCI SP magnum primers, and 1498 with Federal SP primers. If you are going until you can't extract the casings, well that's another thing. Any chance you could send me a hundred or so of those bullets to try? I'd gladly pay you for them, and of course shipping.

[wildcatter]

I still think it is amazing the velocity you get from that, when the fastest I mess with right now are 119 grain actual weight SWC's, from a very similar alloy, and they barely hit 1500 fps from a book load. 1490 average with CCI SP magnum primers, and 1498 with Federal SP primers. If you are going until you can't extract the casings, well that's another thing. Any chance you could send me a hundred or so of those bullets to try? I'd gladly pay you for them, and of course shipping.

what revolver are going to try them in?

[megasupermagnum]

A GP 100 with a 5" barrel.

[TINCANBANDIT]

Here is mine, NM Single Six "Vaquerito"

https://i.imgur.com/hpjeyTll.jpg

[Outpost75]

Here is mine, NM Single Six "Vaquerito"

https://i.imgur.com/hpjeyTll.jpg

OMG! THAT is cute!

Are you sure it a male? Looks more like a Vaquerita to me?

8-)

[Earlwb]

I think that a revolver made to chamber the 7.62x25 rounds would be great. I don't know why but the little .32 handguns just pull on me to buy more of them. Something about them just appeals to many people.

[Outpost75]

I think that a revolver made to chamber the 7.62x25 rounds would be great. I don't know why but the little .32 handguns just pull on me to buy more of them. Something about them just appeals to many people.

Expect a 7.62x25 revolver would set back and lock up the cylinder, bottlenecked cases with hot loads in revolvers, ala .22 Jet, do that fairly often.

[megasupermagnum]

Well you guys got me interested in this extreme velocity spread thing, so I did a test. I loaded 5-shot strings from 1.5 grains up to 4 grains. I used American Select powder, and 1.5 gr through 3.5 grains were loaded to an OAL of 1.460" with a 120 grain SWC, which is crimped on the top driving band. I didn't actually crimp, just hit it enough to get rid of the mouth flare. I loaded another string of 3.5 grains and 4 grains at an OAL of 1.540", which was roll crimped into the crimp groove. I used a Federal 100 primer, and brass was not trimmed, so the length varied. All were shot through my 3" SP101.

1.5 gr
AVG: 531
ES: 416
SD: 167

2 gr
AVG: 597
ES: 19
SD: 8

2.5 gr
AVG: 686
ES: 46
SD: 18

3 gr
AVG: 793
ES: 51
SD: 20

3.5 gr (OAL 1.460")
AVG: 903
ES: 31
SD: 12

3.5 gr (OAL 1.540")
AVG: 853
ES: 37
SD: 12

4 gr (OAL 1.540")
AVG: 939
ES: 29
SD: 12


Now lets look at 1.5 grains. I'm not kidding, I think that it was about 20 flakes of powder, it looked comical in the powder scale. I truly believed this would be a dud, so I had a rod ready to get the bullet out. Sure enough, the first 4 shots went off with tiny pop, and no problems. The 5th went bang, and there is the problem. I don't know what happened, but looking back, it has to be a double charge. That 5th shot went 823 FPS, which would fit perfectly in the 3 grain string. I only loaded one at a time, dump powder, then seat bullet. Still, it's not impossible for me to double charge. Was it a double charge or some strange ballistic phenomena? Draw your own conclusions. I did the math on the other 4 shots, and got an average of 458 FPS, ES 106 FPS, and SD 44 FPS. Not a good load no matter how you look at it.

Besides that, every other load was good. I feel like the results for 2 grains has to be a fluke. I want to come back and do the same thing again with 700X. I also want to try both 2 grains and 3.5 grains, and test the position sensitivity. For comparison, I've been running 3.5 grains of both 700X and American Select for a while. The last time I tried it, a 10 shot string had a SD of 9 FPS. For whatever reason, it did just slightly worse today.

I do want to point some things out so people stay safe. With 1.5-3 grains, a double charge is very possible. American Select is very bulky, and a double charge of 3.5 grains is almost to the rim. It would be hard to miss a double charge of 3.5 grains or higher, if you could even seat a bullet. For this reason, I would not mess around with the lower charges, I'm trying to go to the extremes, just to see what happens.

I'm going to try 1.5 grains again, but from what I see, the wild velocity spreads being a 327 Federal thing are wrong. I've never seen it with AA#9, H110, or Lil' Gun, HS6, longshot, 700x, and now I've even gone way below starting loads of American Select. The only one I've found that was poor, was a mid range load of Blue dot, and that's not uncommon.

[Dale53]

Mega;
That looks to be a good test. Now, take the last load (that is a very useful speed for small game) and do a ten round test. Five with the powder against the primer and five against the bullet.

If I had a .327, I would probably opt for Titegroup due to its rep of being insensitive to powder position. Frankly, tho’, if the American select passes the position test, that just may be all you need.

FWIW
Dale53

[megasupermagnum]

Remember too that this is my 3" SP101. I seem to remember 3.5 grains being somewhere around 1100-1150 fps through my Henry rifle, and more than likely 950-1000 fps through a hunting size revolver. I do have some titegroup, but never liked it more than 700x (which works better than titegroup in shotgun). I will be testing for position sensitivity, and will post the results. I also want to try black powder, just for tits n' pickles. I also have Blackhorn 209 I can try, but with how expensive it is, I don't know why you would use it over trail boss.

[megasupermagnum]

Ok, I did the same test with 700x and didn't double charge any this time. Same gun, my 3" SP101, same primers Federal 100's. OAL 1.460" with the same 120 gr SWC.

1.5 gr
Avg:528
ES:22
SD:9

2 gr
Avg:633
ES:20
SD:8

2.5 gr
Avg:749
ES:32
SD:12

3 gr
Avg:825
ES:24
SD:8

3.5 gr
Avg:941
ES:55
SD:22

Kind of weird, both american select and 700x, 2 grains was the most consistent. These were only 5 shot strings, but it still is interesting. I would have to think that it would be very position sensitive. It looks like 3 grains is the sweet spot with 700X. No indication of pressure spiking, or more importantly, velocity variations. I can only say Brian Pierce is full of it, either that, or he was drunk the last time he was loading ammo. To get velocity spreads like he is taking, something is very wrong.

On another note, I tested my pet load of 3.5 grains American Select for position sensitivity. It was a 10 shot string, 5 I raised the gun up and carefully brought it down, the other 5 pointed at the ground and brought up. These were shot through my 5" GP100, so you can see the kind of velocity most will get in their hunting handguns.

Gun facing up (powder against primer)

Avg:996
ES:32
SD:12

Gun facing down (powder against bullet)
Avg:942
ES:29
SD:11

Average over entire string

Avg:968
ES:86
SD:30

So this load is mildly position sensitive, but I don't see this as much of a problem. This is a worst case scenario, and a velocity extreme spread of 86 FPS is not the end of the world.

700X is supposed to be about as bulky as American Select, but from what I see AS is more bulky. It looks like you could seat a bullet on 7 grains of 700X, but AS you could not. Something to keep in mind.

[am44mag]

I think that a revolver made to chamber the 7.62x25 rounds would be great. I don't know why but the little .32 handguns just pull on me to buy more of them. Something about them just appeals to many people.


Expect a 7.62x25 revolver would set back and lock up the cylinder, bottlenecked cases with hot loads in revolvers, ala .22 Jet, do that fairly often.

This is why I haven't gotten a revolver rechambered for 357-44 Bain and Davis. On paper it looks like an amazing round, in practice it has some issues...

[9.3X62AL]

The 327 Federal probably beats out the Tokarev-level 7.62 x 25, bullet-weight-for-bullet-weight. Using that same barometer, the CZ-52-level 7.62 x 25 is about a dead heat with the 327. All of them are louder than Purgatory's Drum Line. It's for that reason I chose the 32 S&W Long as my "Champion" in this thread--run it at a +P rating of 850-900 FPS, and it is very pleasant in recoil and muzzle bark and amazingly accurate in a good handgun. The most accurate handgun I have ever fired was a 32 S&W Long wadcutter pistol--a Walther GSP-C. Those should probably be limited to 1899 ballistics, a 98 grainer at 700-720 FPS. Those loads won't do small game and varmints any favors.

[zymguy]

Thanks to this thread, and some extra shifts Ive got a 4" charter arms in 327 heading my way. Now a few more shifts for brass and persuit of dies and a mold !

[Green Frog]

Either the Lyman, Lee or RCBS die set should do it all for you... some even come with multiple seating stems. I'm partial to heavier bullets (from 115 gr up) for my 327 but am having fun with 90-100 grainers with my little 32 S&W Longs. Brass? I take all I can find cheap, whenever and wherever I find it. Lately, since I've been working on the K-32/Model 16-3 homage, I'm doing more 32 S&W Longs than anything else. With my 327s, however, the possibilities are nearly endless

Froggie

[GhostHawk]

Just passed on a H&R 6.5" single six in .32 H&R mag at 250$ mostly because the seller would only take postal money order or bank certified check. Just more hassle than it is worth.

Then I found a Ruger Bisley single six new in box with a buy it now of 455$ 27$ shipping and a 20$ FFL fee on my end. Thinking about it pretty hard. Yes I'm paying more, but it is a Ruger, has adjustable rear sight, comes with plastic case and all paperwork.

https://p1.gunbroker.com/pics/775542000/775542411/pix531075230.jpg

I have a day so I may sleep on it. But leaning towards picking it up.

Would shoot mostly .32sw longs in it.

[megasupermagnum]

Is that a single six or single seven?

My smaller 327's are nothing special, and everybody has seen a Henry carbine, but my GP100 is really something special. It is a great looking, great feeling, great shooting handgun! The sights are very good. I never liked a gold bead front sight, but after shooting it for a while, I really like it. If you don't think, just shoot, it's just a natural point and shoot sight, but it also works very well for target shooting.The front blade is plenty thick, and stands out great from the background, and the rear sight allows plenty of light around the blade. There is no fighting to see level like I find with fiber optic sights. I don't think the bead really stands out much, which I like, but it's no night sight or fiber optic. What I have found is that the bead gives more reference points for long range shooting. You can hold center of bead, or bottom, although I'm not sure what ranges those correspond to yet. The white outline washed off the rear sight from cleaning, but the outline does nothing for me anyway. The rear sight is just a good, adjustable sight, and the click adjustments seem to work well. It holds a zero.

As far as looks, I was really impressed, the wood grip looks great, and the bluing had no imperfections at all. The only thing was the first time I cleaned it good, I dropped the cylinder on concrete and put a good ding right in the corner. That bummed me out, but I smoothed it with sand paper, and hit it with some cold blue. It's only noticeable if you look hard, or get in the wrong lighting. It WAS perfect right out of the box.

Function has been 100%. The trigger was decent right away, but I opted for lighter springs. I also polished most moving surfaces but did not work on the hammer dog much. I don't trust myself enough on the actual latching surfaces. I think the hammer and trigger would benefit quite a bit from shims, but have yet to order any. The trigger return seemed way too heavy, so I used the 8# and it still resets with authority. The hammer spring I tried the 9# and got weak primer strikes. I tried the 10# and it seemed to work, although I still didn't trust it. I now have the 12#, and I trust the gun 100%. The hammer just seems much faster than with the 10#. I've shot a few hundred rounds with hard primers, and zero misfires. With the lighter springs, and lots of dry firing, it is probably the nicest double action trigger I have. I love the grips on this. I could do with a bigger set, but the shape is perfect. I will not be changing them. My original set had a little rattle, which I fixed by adding tape around the grip frame. I decided to call Ruger anyway, and with no fuss had me a new set at my door 3 or 4 days later. This set is the one in the picture, and is as tight as can be.

I had to order mine online, but after FFL fees, shipping etc. I don't think I paid even $700, I think it was closer to $675. It is a fantastic value for a do all handgun in 327 federal.

I'm still working with it for accuracy, aren't we all? Unless I called it, nothing has been worse than about 3" at 25 yards, and I've got a lot of 2" groups at the same range. The best so far has been a hefty load of Bluedot with a heat treated SWC at under 2" 5-shot groups, and equally well seems to be the Federal 100 grain factory load. I've had mixed results with a 145 grain SSK style bullet, I'll get holes touching, then flyers. I've got a 150 grain mold on the way I designed, both GC and PB, with LOTS of bearing surface. I've shot 4" and 6" GP100's, and I really think the 5" half-lug beats them both in balance.

I also want to add that all 7 cylinder throats are .314", measured with a pin gauge. The bore is about .3035" (a .304" pin gauge is too tight but will start), and there is absolutely no thread choke at all. The grooves slug at .3125". The bore looks smooth, as well as the forcing cone. I've got minor leading, cleaned out with just the brush, from softer cast about 11BHN, with full snort 45k PSI loads pushing 1500 fps, but that's about it.

223740

[megasupermagnum]

I think I just found your single six Ghosthawk at Ellis County Firearms. That's where I had ordered my GP100, and they are great to deal with. I'm pretty sure they only charged me $13 shipping, not $27. They also sent me a few paper targets, which reminds me I should put in the shooting bag. I did send them a money order, although I'm not sure if they take other payments.

[Thundarstick]

Ghosthawk that's a great gun! I had one years ago that I've kicked myself in the rear for selling, just a great shooter! Since Ruger released the Single Seven Bisley there seems to be a bunch of these NOS Single Six Bisley hitting the market. Out of all my 327FM firearms the new Bisley is at the top of the heap! If you not hung up on 327 jump on it!

[GhostHawk]

Yeah I jumped on it, its in the works.

I've been looking at single six rugers for a while now. The vast majority seem to be over the 500$ mark.

I'm not hung on .327 fed mag. Heck I may not ever shoot .32h&R mags in it.

But I have some 250 starline .32sw long new brass just waiting for it.

I find I really like the little .32sw long, light on recoil, easy on ears, hands.
Drills them in right where I want. Now it is just a matter of waiting for it. But I can be casting the Lee .314 90 gr truncated cone and loading brass while I'm waiting.

The only hard part is me and Momma have a deal, if I buy new toys she gets new toys. So she is playing with 200$ of semi precious beads. (agates, jaspers, jade) and the next order to balance this new toy is going to hurt.

Still, guy has to do what a guy has to do.

If I did buy some .32 H&R mag rounds it would be to get some longer brass for making snake shot loads.
Also been wondering what 3 #1 buckshot would act like out of that barrel.

[cwlongshot]

I like the Bisleys too. Darn fine looking chooter GH!

I know your gonna enjoy it!

CW

[Green Frog]

Megasupermagnum,

If you load .32 S &W then you will definitely go below 3 grains of powder. I load 1.1 grains of BULLSEYE under a 78gr LYMAN #311252 to shoot in a old S & W Lemon Squeezer Break Top, chambered in .32 Short & Wimpy. I've put about 100 rounds thru it in the last 40yrs. Most all of it in COWBOY ACTION SHOOTING Side Matches. My Mother gave it to me after her Mother passed on. My Grandma had carried in her purse for 50yrs. It was in a custom made holster, velvet lined in her purse. I believe a shoemaker probably fitted the special holster to each new purse. It was Nickel Plated with Mother of Pearl grips with Factory S&W Medallions. It was in 90% condition and clean as could be. Had 6 rounds of REM-UMC ammo in it, Copper-Coated RN. I found the ammo box in a REAL hatbox in her closet. 25rds of ammo & 20 empty cases. She definitely new how to use it. There was a BEAUTIFUL Little WINCHESTER Model 62 in .22LR in a Tooled Leather Saddle Scabbard in the closet too. Found ammo in the hatbox for it too.
My kids started shooting that RUGER SSM WITH that .32 S&W BULLSEYE load. Only .32 S&W load I've ever used. I use a .32 S&W LONG medium load for most of the shooting in it. But I always drybrush the chambers every time I shoot the longs so as to chamber the H&R cases without a problem. Use the SAECO 100gr SWC flat base for most of my H&R loads. And the Lee 93gr RN for the Longs.

Use that same LYMAN #311252 cast of straight Linotype over 2.3grs of BULLSEYE for the .32ACP. My COLT 1903 and french WALTHER PP both shoot to POI at 50ft with that load.

Yep, if your gonna shoot the little light .32 loads, ya better get used to tiny charges of powder. I use a LYMAN Model 55 Powder Measure. To throw those tiny charges of BULLSEYE. It's the only Measure I've found, reliable ENOUGH to do the job. I bought the extra small pistol rotor for my HORNADY L-N-L Powder Measure, I've yet to try it. I don't want to dismount the L-N-L from my PROGRESSIVE to try it for just the couple of hundred rounds that will probably last the rest of my life.

I looked right over the part about dropping 1.1 grains of Bullseye with your Lyman 55, but fortunately my friend Dale53 called it to my attention, knowing I have used 55s a lot. I spent over an hour last night trying to get one of mine adjusted to throw 1.7 grains, and every time I would recheck it, the weights would have wandered up or down from about 1.3 to over 2.0. I had the set screw locked in, so I'm kinda baffled on A: Wha'sup? and B: How do I fix it? I'd love to take one of my 55s and just leave it set and locked to load the cat sneeze charge I need for loading swaged HBWCs and SWCs.

Froggie

[megasupermagnum]

I looked right over the part about dropping 1.1 grains of Bullseye with your Lyman 55, but fortunately my friend Dale53 called it to my attention, knowing I have used 55s a lot. I spent over an hour last night trying to get one of mine adjusted to throw 1.7 grains, and every time I would recheck it, the weights would have wandered up or down from about 1.3 to over 2.0. I had the set screw locked in, so I'm kinda baffled on A: Wha'sup? and B: How do I fix it? I'd love to take one of my 55s and just leave it set and locked to load the cat sneeze charge I need for loading swaged HBWCs and SWCs.

Froggie

Just some ideas...

I assume you were only using the smaller adjuster.

Check if static is a problem, I often have that problem with ball powders, but not as much with flake.

The hopper has to be full, never let it get close to half.

I find mine more accurate by not using the knocker, but let the handle tap when lifting.

Finally: I never found powder measures all that accurate, including my #55. you should be able to get them down to about plus or minus .2 grains, but less than that just seems too much to ask. My lee is more accurate with flake powders, but still wont hold plus or minus .1 grains. If you get the rhythm, Lee scoops seem more accurate than anything.

[Green Frog]

Thanks, MSM. That was about the same conclusion I had reached. I’m looking at the idea of a custom fit brass dipper (22 short case based?) to dedicate to the job.

Froggie

[megasupermagnum]

One thing I forgot to add, after filling, I throw 20 charges before measuring.

[GhostHawk]

Well it is here!
223960
.32 H&R mag new in box, still had some kind of plastic disk behind the cylinder.

223961

Trigger is awesome, sights look good. Be a day or two before I can shoot it.
223962

Grips are "almost" beefy for my hands. Rock solid grip, certainly no complaints about the look.

Love the "open loading gate with hammer down and cylinder is free.

Thank you Ruger! I'm head over heels over this one.

Couple of days should tell me what it will do shooting wise.
At this point all I have to feed it with is .32sw longs. Couple of different bullet sizes and styles.
Call me a very happy camper.

[Wheelguns 1961]

Better check your throats. They seem to run big. I have the same gun and my throats will take a .315 pin gauge. My single seven will take a .314. I run .314 bullets in both. The accuracy is pretty good in both.

[EMC45]

Nice wheelgun GH!

[GhostHawk]

I'll be feeding it with .314's. I have both the Lee .314 90 gr TC, and I have also had good luck with sizing 00 buckshot through a .314 sizing die and loading those for plinking loads.

I'll be checking throats this morning.

[Crash_Corrigan]

I bought the ss version of the Charter Arms Patriot with a 2.5" tube for my wife. She loves it. Light gun and fits her hand perfectly. She loves the way it handles and she is pretty good shot with it. The recoil does not bother her as she is athletic and has a heavy bone structure. She works out 3 1/2 days a week and is down to 160 lbs from well over 230 when she was more than chubby 10 years ago. She carries it when walking her dog as we have a serious coyote situation here in West Las Vegas in the foothills. Sometimes they keep advancing in spite of loud yelling and an aerosol boat horn and only a shot in the ground at their feet makes them retreat. Her dog is an Australian Shepard and runs toward the coyotes as she wants to play with them. I have had to fire a warning shot on a few evenings when I was walking my dog. The coyotes see my Sgt. Rambo as a light snack at 12 lbs. However he does alert me to their presence and then scoots behind me as they scare the dickens out of him. I am awaiting the inevitable silly mom who leaves her toddler alone in the yard whilst she yaps on the phone ignoring her charge when a coyote lopes on by and grabs up a snack. It is only a matter of time.……….

[Dale53]

GhostHawk;
That Ruger Bisley looks like a DANDY! I predict a GOOD shooter if you are able to match the cylinder throats with your cast bullets. I had a Single Six .32 H&R with 4 5/8” barrel and it was an excellent performer with both .313” and .314” home cast bullets. It made a dandy field pistol, too.

Dale53

[rking22]

Crash, probably a silly question from a county boy, but why intentionally miss the critter. When I am walking, if I see a coyote I AM going to do my best to kill it! But then I live on a farm in the country, your situation is obviously different. Just wondering what is the "lay of the land" in your area??

[Texas by God]

Ghost hawk, in my opinion you just got yourself the king of the 32s!

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G930A using Tapatalk

[GhostHawk]

Texas I have to agree. King for me for sure.

[zymguy]

I'll be feeding it with .314's. I have both the Lee .314 90 gr TC, and I have also had good luck with sizing 00 buckshot through a .314 sizing die and loading those for plinking loads.

I'll be checking throats this morning.

what's your charge for the lee? I haven't received my pistol yet but ups shows it delivered to my FFL. I was thinking id start at 5.25 of tite group , for no real reason.

[Dale53]

zymguy;
That load is WAY over the max according to Hodgdon's web site. Remember, this revolver is chambered for .32 H&R Magnum and will also be used with .32 S&W Longs.

Folks, let's be safe!

FWIW
Dale53

[megasupermagnum]

zymguy has a 327 federal handgun. I've never tried that particular bullet, but I've never had good results with anything that light. I would start at 4 grains, and wouldn't go past 5.5 grains. I find most faster powders perform better at or below the listed starting load in 327.

[GhostHawk]

what's your charge for the lee? I haven't received my pistol yet but ups shows it delivered to my FFL. I was thinking id start at 5.25 of tite group , for no real reason.

2 grains of Red Dot, but those are low because I shoot them in the H&R 732 double action 2.5" barrel.

I have no desire for more bang, working on less actually as long as I can maintain accuracy.

I'm sure in the Ruger I could go to 3 but I have zero desire for more speed/power.
Feeling and sounding like a .22lr is perfect for me.

[GhostHawk]

FYI this is what 2 grains of Red Dot below a Lee .314 90 gr TC bullet looks like at the range.

Shot at 20 feet. Right arm is resting on a small bag by my elbow.

224046

Second picture is 00 buckshot run through a .314 sizing die, given a single light coat of BLL, and loaded.

224047

All shot exactly where I expected within an inch.
Top of sights was roughly halfway between the 2" stick on bullseye and the bottom of the orange.

My impression, this ruger is a fricking LASER!

It will stack them as close as you can hold it.

Happy? ROFLMAO, does not even come close to describing what I am feeling.
King of the 32's indeed.

[zymguy]

zymguy;
That load is WAY over the max according to Hodgdon's web site. Remember, this revolver is chambered for .32 H&R Magnum and will also be used with .32 S&W Longs.

Folks, let's be safe!

FWIW
Dale53

good looking out. I should state 327 fed mag. Lyman has the 100g saeco max 5.3
93 g lee max 5.5

[Dale53]

Yeah, I have to keep reminding myself to ALWAYS mention the caliber of brass when I am suggesting loads. But, we are all human and humans are not robots, are we[smilie=1:).

FWIW
Dale53

[Crash_Corrigan]

It is a fully developed single family residential area and most of the home are framed with particle board and then chicken wire and stucco exteriors. Most handgun bullets will penetrate this barrier like hot butter. There is not much grass. A lot of gravel and stone landscaping along with the level of the ground dropping away from building make hitting a hard surface at the bottom of a slope will deflect right into that house. Or your stray bullet may hit his 126,500 Tesla parked in the driveway. So at all time I am aware of what is behind my target in in every case I dropped into the prone to get the angle up into the sky behind my target. It puzzled the coyotes as the move was not expected and slowed them down a step or two. I will tell you that a quality 9 MM HP will take out a coyote DRT if you hit the right area. A gut or leg shot will not do. Even a head shot can bounce off. Ya gotta go for the low neck area and shoulders and upper torso. Ya want to kill his heart fast or break his spine or turn his brain to jello. Taking out one usually causes his buddies to change direction fast so having a decent handgun or short and fast handling shotgun is important as they may just run by you. Big Surprise for me one late afternoon. I shot him with a .45 at about 8 feet. DRT.

[Good Cheer]

.32 faves? 6" barrel Bernadelli and of course, the 6" 1849 Colt.

[Green Frog]

Just for grins, here are my stainless 327, a custom based on a Model 66 and a put-together homage Model 16-3 based on an original K-32 bbl and a donor Model 14-3. Which is King? The one I’m shooting right then, of course!

Froggie

[EMC45]

Great looking guns Green Frog!

[saleen322]

I have a 32/20, a couple of 32 S&Ws, a 32 H&R, but the leader is the 327 mag. The 327 is a better revolver round than the 32/20 and it will chamber all of the others mentioned. What is not to like about the 327?

[Green Frog]

I have a 32/20, a couple of 32 S&Ws, a 32 H&R, but the leader is the 327 mag. The 327 is a better revolver round than the 32/20 and it will chamber all of the others mentioned. What is not to like about the 327?

^^^^ This^^^^
I've had pistols and revolvers from 32 S&W (the short one) and 32 ACP up to the 32-20 and 327, and each had their own purposes and strengths. At the moment I have little to no use for the shortest rounds, but 32 S&W Long in a little carry gun is attractive... maybe even a 32 H&R (Mag wannabe) but the undisputed KING of 32s is the 327 Fed Mag in an appropriately sized platform. There are over a half dozen 32s of various stripes around here now so this statement is based on my empirical testing. :2gunsfiring_v1:

YMMV, but I doubt it! :coffeecom

Froggie

[groundpounder]

My vote goes to 32-20. Reason is I have a “buckeye” and get very good accuracy and max loads out of it. Haven’t developed a good 32 h&r load for it yet with the extra cylendar.

[9.3X62AL]

The single-best source of data I have found for 32 H&R Magnum is in the RCBS Cast Bullet Manual, #1 (1986), pp. 133. The data uses the RCBS #32--98-SWC bullet, which has been the best-performing bullet in my 32 SWL and 32 HRM for years, and shows early promise in the 327 Federal up to 1100 FPS.

[Green Frog]

Somebody went in and voted on the poll and reopened this old thread.

When my ship comes in (assuming I’m not waiting at the bus station and miss it) I’ll buy a RBH Buckeye Special 32 combo and have the H&R chambers deepened to 327 Mag length. Otherwise I’ll start with a RBH in 30 Carbine and have Hamilton Bowen do custom cylinders in 32-20 and 327 FM and keep on rolling! There simply is nothing better than the 327 in a properly sized platform. :mrgreen:

Of course after I buy Smith & Wesson I’ll drop by the tool room and have them build me an L-frame 327 in stainless. Now that would be the ultimate 32 handgun!!! 8-)

Froggie

[buckweet]

I hit the wrong button..
32-20 is what I wanted to push.

[RJM52]

Updating my post from a year ago this time...

Still have the:
S&W Model 53 6"
Freedom Arms 97 6.5"
Ruger LCR

Sold the:
Ruger SP-101 3"
S&W 632-2 PRO

Picked up:
S&W 16-2 4" .32 H&R Magnum (in trade for the PRO)
Ruger Single-Six stainless birdshead .32 H&R Magnum

Also picked up a Ruger GP-100 4" stainless but sold it to a friend when I picked up the 16-2....

Now to get out and shoot them a little more...

Bob

[psweigle]

I'm late to the 32 game, but I will say that my sp101 3" 327 is an absolute joy to shoot. Cant go wrong with 327 federal magnum.

[Dan Cash]

I have an 1873 pattern single action by Uberti and a 1914 Colt Army Special, both 5 1/2 and .32.20 plus a Marlin 94 in the same caliber. I have other hand guns and other calibers but the Colt is the most used except for personal protection in the "Big City." It is a cartridge that I understand and is demonstrated to work. Anything shot with it won't know the difference between it and any other upper end .32.
ammo is abundant (5 gallon bucket full) thanks to a Dillon 550. Any of the "big" .32s are OK but the .32-20 is my choice and the Colt AS is my choice of the choice.

[reddhawkk]

I have 3 of the 4 calibers listed and am looking for the fourth and fifth (.32acp). I guess I just like the .32's!

[Greg S]

Without purusing the whole thread, as others have probably already said the true king and for nostalgia reasons, the 32 WCF is king.

With that said, I think Federal has done alot for the caliber with the introduction of the 327. It has made the 32 H&R what it should have been or almost loaded to by the handloader in a tougher case that can withstand hard use. The 32 WCF might be king but the cases are fragile and need a delicate touch in loading, perticularly the resizing.

Also, hats off to Henry for the introduction of the 327 into their line-up to save money going after a 32 lever.

Now, if someone can come up with a feasible 25 cal replacement for the 25-20 that the big two (rem and win) no longer want to load and produce brass for we'll be set.

I really like my NMBH 32wcf/32hr combo. If was looking for another, the 8 shot bh or the gp100 would be choice without an oal restriction that is placed on the S7 cylinder length but for everyday packability, the s7 hands down.

[scotth]

Now, if someone can come up with a feasible 25 cal replacement for the 25-20 that the big two (rem and win) no longer want to load and produce brass for we'll be set.

i agree on the replacement 25 cal. i would like to see a super magnum 25 acp with a full rim on it

[Burnt Fingers]

I'm starting to get the itch for a 32 cal revolver to carry around the homestead. Something that would be easy to carry, fast to shoot, and would be great for a little plinking. Not to mention dispatching the occasional snake, opossum, armadillo, or even coyote if one is ever ballsy enough to get that close.

There are four I'm looking into. The 32 S&W Long, 32 H&R Mag, 327 Fed Mag, and the 32-20 WCF. I feel all would be up to the task, but there can only be one king. I'm leaning towards the 327 Fed as it can shoot both the long and the H&R, while also outclassing even rifle only 32-20 in a much shorter barrel.

I have to say that a Ruger Single Seven in 327 Fed is very appealing, though a little pricey. What do you guys think?

https://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/images/718002098.jpg

I love mine. Got it in trade a couple years ago. You can load it mild to WILD!

[Burnt Fingers]

Now, if someone can come up with a feasible 25 cal replacement for the 25-20 that the big two (rem and win) no longer want to load and produce brass for we'll be set.

i agree on the replacement 25 cal. i would like to see a super magnum 25 acp with a full rim on it

:drinks:

Hear hear! There's a huge gap between the .22 LR/.22 Mag and the .32 cal rounds.

I'd love both a rimmed and non-rimmed round. If I had to choose just one it would be the non-rimmed round. Handguns can be built to handle the non-rimmed stuff.

Imagine something like a Ruger 10/22 on steroids! Shooting a .25 cal 75-85 gr boolit at 1500 fps!

[Green Frog]

Burnt Fingers,

Although I have two rifles in 25-20 SS, they were acquired purposely for 200 yd target work... the very reason the cartridge was designed. I know the 25-20 WCF is a shorter round physically, but it is ballistically a virtual twin. I cannot imagine any task I could do with that round I couldn't do as well or better with one of the straight side 32s (except punch a quarter inch hole. :bigsmyl2: )

Maybe if there had ever been a centerfire round (or family of rounds) based on the 25 rimfire, my opinion would be different, but somehow I doubt it. There just isn't any purpose I can envision to do this, and I'm having a tough enough time trying to get the 32 family out there for the common man! [smilie=s:

Froggie

[Green Frog]

OK, BF, I reread your post and picked up on the 10-22 part. I'm not sure that platform would support any existing 25 CF round, but it would be kinda fun in a carbine length rifle. I'm still in handgun mode and my previous answer still applies. JMHO, YMMV! ;)

Froggie

PS Maybe a Mini-14 platform to start on?

[ddixie884]

Elmer Keith said the .25 Stevens Long RF was a lot better killer than .22LR. Just saying.......

[Dale53]

scotth;
"Now, if someone can come up with a feasible 25 cal replacement for the 25-20 that the big two (rem and win) no longer want to load and produce brass for we'll be set."

Actually, it is a simple matter to buy Starline 32/20 cases and run them through a 25/20 full length die to give you excellent 25/20 brass. Until I lost the vision in my right eye, I had a Marlin Cl 25/20 lever action that was a wonderful field gun. It would regularly shoot possibles on the fifty yard small bore target. It was a perfect edible small game rifle when loaded with the Lyman cast 257420 bullet. 4.0 grs of Unique gave a nice quiet squirrel load that worked perfectly. Using a full case of RL-7, you could drive that cast bullet to nearly 2200 fps. without issue.

I used my rifle in the field and on the range with excellent results for a number of years. It was FAR superior to the .22 rimfire for game.

FWIW
Dale53

[scotth]

a small game Cartridge or a nice quiet squirrel load is what i am talking about i think the .251 bullet with a longer 25 acp case would do way better then the 22lr until then i will stick with my 32's

[owejia]

Have a Ruger Single Seven in 327 Fed and have started to load some test loads but have not tested them yet. Would like to see Rossi 92 in 327 Fed made in ss to match my single seven.

[psweigle]

Chev williams has done just that. If you look at some of the 25acp threads you will find his posts.

[Chev. William]

That is correct.
I have a Ruger Single Six that started out as a .32 H&R MAG but has been modified by setting the Barrel back to allow use of Ruger .22LR/.22MAG cylinders that had been Drilled, Reamed, and Chambered for:
.32 Colt Short;
.32 Colt Long;
.32 Colt Extra Long;
.32 S&W Short;
.32 S&W Long;
.32 H&R Magnum.
The Colt ones are cut from Stainless Steel cylinders and the S&W ones are Blued Alloy Steel cylinders.

I also have a Custom Ruger .25ACP Single Eight with added Cylinders in longer Cartridges and a 10-5/8" long Barrel.

The Latest project is a .25ACP converted Ruger Standard Automatic MKII Pistol.

Chev. William

[rintinglen]

I holds with those as holds with the .327 Federal, but there are no flies on the 32 H&R either. you pays your money and takes your choice.

[scotth]

i have been fallowing chev william with his adventures in the 25 and 32 cal. game. he makes my head hurt with all he is doing . if i just had more time and money to keep up with him it would be big fun.

[Green Frog]

I holds with those as holds with the .327 Federal, but there are no flies on the 32 H&R either. you pays your money and takes your choice.

What he said! You can always use shorter rounds in a longer revolver chamber, but longer doesn’t work! If I could only have one 32 revolver (Heaven forbid!) it would have to be chambered in 327 FM. :cool:

Froggie

[Chev. William]

i have been fallowing chev william with his adventures in the 25 and 32 cal. game. he makes my head hurt with all he is doing . if i just had more time and money to keep up with him it would be big fun.

I have Been Doing my Experiments and Conversions on a Retired/Disabled Veteran income from VA, Mil Reserve Retirement, Social Security, and a few small Civilian Retirement Payments, trading Time for money by letting my gunsmith do my projects in his 'spare moments' between better paying work.

Since only three sources of my income have ANY CoL indexing, and that is less than the actual cost of living increases (about 3/4 of CoL provided to Current government employees), my 'Discretionary Spending Funds' have shrunk over time also. As I am currently 76 years old and have not had a Union 'Work Call' for over A year now, I don't think my funding will be increasing anytime soon.

So far my experiments have been relatively Cheep as both Ruger Revolvers and the Ruger Pistol were used and cost about $300 each before California 'Acquisition fees and Taxes. The Barrel Blank for both the .25ACP Ruger conversions was a Lothar Walther Cr-Mo one that cost about $200 at the time, now they are slightly higher priced on LW website.
Ruger Revolver conversion was done by "American Gun Works" and gunsmith Willie Clark for very reasonable charges and about 6 months waiting for each. The Ruger Pistol was done by John Taylor of Taylor Machine also for very reasonable cost.
My Pistol Magazines are still a 'work in progress' as I just this month had the money to get the bodies cut so I can later have the parts welded to make longer Bodies to fit the Ruger Grip frame.

You CAN do such Things on a tight budget IF You are willing to save and wait rather than demanding 'instant gratification' of your desires.

Chev. William

[Chev. William]

Note that the Ruger "Single Eight" in .25ACP and other CF .25 Calibers was Started in November, 2015 and is just now getting close to complete with all its planned interchangeable Cylinders.

I traded Time (be patient) for lower Costs of the Project.

Chev. William

[Drm50]

I think what the world needs is a 25cal rimmed straight case. Case length same as 22mag. I think the gun and ammo companies would have a big seller. The guns made for 22mg could be adapted cheaply just like they did for the .17rfs. There needs to be a few practical field cartridges. A 32 could be one of them but they are marketed more towards SD and CCW. The obsolete 25 & 32 rfs and 25/20 & 32/20 were useful and we're all that were needed for small game. Now about all that fills this notch is the 22mg.

[Chev. William]

.22Mag has a Case length of about 1.055" which is Close to the Length of my ".25MACP" wildcat, at 26.8mm long, or 26mm nominal for the "6.35x26mmSR" cartridge.
1.400" cylinder chamber length, including throat capability of conversion Ruger Singe Six or Eight cylinders, minus the Case length at 1.055" leaves .345" for exposed bullet nose.
If one caliber of the Bullet is inside the case, that would allow a nominal .595" bullet length. Roughly the length of a 60 grain Hornady 2510 bullet but it would need to be sized down to .251" diameter for the Cartridge under discussion.

If you make your cases by swaging down 5.7x28mm brass to .278"-.276" body Diameter leaving the rim at .312", or turning the rim diameter down to .304"-.307" would give a good Strong Case capable of holding pressures equal to the parent, about 50,000psi MAP.
The cylinders I have been using are made from Alloy 1144 Steel (called 'Stressproof') which has a rated, as delivered from the Mill, yield strength of around 100,000psi.
In the Ruger replacement cylinder Machined dimensions that would give a minimum wall yield strength of about 43,000psi and about a safe working strain capability of about 30,000psi Pmax MAP.

I have fired .25ACP cartridges loaded with 3.0 grains of BE-86 behind a 63 grain Lead bullet and 3.1 grains of BE-86 behind a 50 grain FMJ bullet repeatedly in my Ruger Single Eight with no problems to Date.

Chev. William

[Chev. William]

Duplicate Post Deleted

Chev. William

[PHyrbird]

I know this is primarily devoted to the long case mag revolvers, but some of my faves are a little more vintage. And my kids like them too. How bout the 32 Remington in a early pump or takedown semi-auto, they are real classics. Another is the 762 Tokarov, a souped up Mauser, again in a semi-auto. A third is the 32 auto in the afore mentioned Browning or the FN. Yes they are unusual, but Hey that makes for interesting. right?
The 32 Rem is an overbored 30-30 with a solid history of success on all but the largest game in the continent. Many are still in use in the NE & Canada. A Tokarov was produced by the millions in Asia with another solid history. (good & bad) The 32 Auto was a JM Browning design for his early very successful line of pistols. Not a power house, however, the ammo sales still outstrip a 327 by a few.
While I am primarily a 45 kinda guy, I must confess a soft spot for the 32s, they're interesting.
Mr William, Thanks for the references for the smiths. It's just kinda a need for someone reliable near S Central Kentucky. Your point of limited cash flow is mutual. I had a Siamese Mauser set in a closet for 20yr waiting for blue job. Now it's Ceracoated!! Still can't find a reliable blue finish in a couple hundred miles. As you may guess blueing is required for my vintage pieces.

[SSGOldfart]

Well I guess the others have covered most of the 32's out there,I'll stay with my single 6 BH in 32mag.

[Drm50]

A 32 Rem is the mirror of 32 Win. The Rem line followed Win . 25rem= 25/35 Win, 30rem =30/30
Win had 38/55 and Rem had the 35, the only one to remain popular.

[Sven205]

I like the 327 FM and the fact that it's fairly versatile. Ive considered 32-20 but i've heard it's a little trickier to reload.

I have three of these 327's. Ruger Blackhawk, Single Seven and a Charter Target Patriot. The single actions aren't for everyone I guess but I do like the Rugers.

[FergusonTO35]

For me, the king of .32's will always be the Kel-Tec P32 with energetic reloads or Euro 7.65 Browning. 7 rounds of not inconsequential firepower in a size and weight less than most .25's. Every P32 I have owned was more accurate than it had a right to be, too.

[EMC45]

For me, the king of .32's will always be the Kel-Tec P32 with energetic reloads or Euro 7.65 Browning. 7 rounds of not inconsequential firepower in a size and weight less than most .25's. Every P32 I have owned was more accurate than it had a right to be, too.

The 2 I have loaded for and shot a good bit have both confirmed that for me as well.

[FergusonTO35]

The 2 I have loaded for and shot a good bit have both confirmed that for me as well.

Very underrated gun and cartridge for sure!8-)

[EMC45]

Very underrated gun and cartridge for sure!8-)


Agreed. I have personally owned 2 P3ATs, and the P32 will outshoot them any day of the week.

[Thumbcocker]

Is the .30 carbine an honorary. 32-20 magnum rimless?

[Chev. William]

If I remember my reading correctly, the .30 Carbine cartridge was derived from the old Winchester .30WCF cartridge, not the 30-30 one.

Chev. William

[nhithaca]

The 30 M1 Carbine cartridge was developed in 1941 directly from the 32 Winchester Auto cartridge that existed prior to WW1. There is an article on the M1 in the latest Rifle magazine showing picture of both cartridges side by side.

[megasupermagnum]

If I remember my reading correctly, the .30 Carbine cartridge was derived from the old Winchester .30WCF cartridge, not the 30-30 one.

Chev. William

I can assure you the 30 carbine was not based off of a rimmed cartridge. Is there any difference between 30 WCF and 30-30 winchester? I was under the impression they are one and the same.

[Chev. William]

The 30 M1 Carbine cartridge was developed in 1941 directly from the 32 Winchester Auto cartridge that existed prior to WW1. There is an article on the M1 in the latest Rifle magazine showing picture of both cartridges side by side.
Memory corrected.
Chev. William

[35 Whelen]

I recently got the .32 itch as well, and initially scratched it with a couple of 32-20's. One thing I can say about cartridges such as this is when loaded to maximum they are LOUD, and now I see absolutely no need in a .31" bullet running 1200-1500 fps.

To that end, I've backed off to the 32 S&W Long. Just today I got in a fine little 3.25" pre-Model 30 in .32 S&W Long. I threw together a quick load of 2.6 grs. of HP-38 under a 100 gr. cast SWC. Accuracy is great-

https://i.imgur.com/LxYANNcl.jpg

At about 18 oz. it's and handy and can be carried in the pocket of my shorts.

The last load I tried was 3.2 grs. of Unique and a 118 gr. FP from a Lyman 3118 mold for a velocity of 835 fps. Accuracy was fine with this load as well and it will easily handle anything from coyotes down.

35W

[EMC45]

I recently got the .32 itch as well, and initially scratched it with a couple of 32-20's. One thing I can say about cartridges such as this is when loaded to maximum they are LOUD, and now I see absolutely no need in a .31" bullet running 1200-1500 fps.

To that end, I've backed off to the 32 S&W Long. Just today I got in a fine little 3.25" pre-Model 30 in .32 S&W Long. I threw together a quick load of 2.6 grs. of HP-38 under a 100 gr. cast SWC. Accuracy is great-

https://i.imgur.com/LxYANNcl.jpg

At about 18 oz. it's and handy and can be carried in the pocket of my shorts.

The last load I tried was 3.2 grs. of Unique and a 118 gr. FP from a Lyman 3118 mold for a velocity of 835 fps. Accuracy was fine with this load as well and it will easily handle anything from coyotes down.

35W

I've got the twin to that gun. Mine prefers the heavier bullets.

[rintinglen]

I have a 1950's era S&W HE that strongly resembles the one 35 Whelen has.

[Green Frog]

I still kinda miss the Model 30 I sold off to pay for my Baby Chief, but since I had a post-War Transitional I-frame 32 HE snub, I thought I would be OK... as a wise young woman once told me, "you can't have them all, if you did where would you put them?" :wink:

Froggie

[Bill*B]

Really, the "King" is whatever grabs you - its an emotional thing, far from reasoned analysis. The "King" just speaks to you. For me, it was the .30 Luger.

[Crash_Corrigan]

I believe the Joker (Batman movie nemisis) used one of those 32's with a longer barrel than the Guesser's and he managed to hit Batman's car/plane.

[EMC45]

This is my Model 30 I Frame

262918

[HumptyDumpty]

I voted 327, with a caveat. I actually use 32 long and H&R brass far more than 327 Federal. In my opinion, the 3" barrel of my Sp101 is not well matched to the powder capacity of 327. The resultant muzzle blast/flash (not really the muzzle-rise/recoil) from full-power 327 is very unpleasant, and indicates a great deal of wasted potential. My defense loads lay somewhere between factory 32 H&R and 327. I consider them full-power 32 H&R. They shoot the same from either H&R or 327 brass. I've also got some very useful loads for 32 S&WL. So, 327 overall for the versatility of the gun. In shorter barrels, 32 H&R power levels for shootability, and 327 in longer barrels for power.

[Markwell]

.32 H&R is our favoritein either a 631 S&W or the custom Single Six shown here with the RW Grip Frame.

https://i.ibb.co/3hP3dC2/download-jpeg.jpg

[Green Frog]

The more I delve into this topic, the more I find that each 32 has its strengths. I “need” a handful to do everything a 32 can do, so have come to the following conclusions.

For pure concealability my tiny old I frame 32 S&W L snub wins. That case also seems to have an edge for dedicated Target work in the K-32 and Euro Target autos. The 32 H&R was designed to provide some serious power to a 32 revolver platform. It probably stopped short in the power department, but can be accurate and has sufficient power for small game and varmints, but then again, hand loaded 32 S&W Longs can pretty much fill the same niche.

The 327 Fed Mag was designed to be used for personal defense. At maximum loadings it can be a ground stompin’, fire breathin’ monster, doing everything a 32 handgun can possibly do. If your 327 FM revolver is of a handy size and is manageable for you, it becomes the king, because it can shoot the long and H&R rounds just as well. If I limited myself to a single 32 revolver, this would be it.

Froggie

[tejano]

A month or two ago I bought a S&W 331 at my LGS. It was my second. I have no idea why I traded the first one many years back. Here it is all dirty after a recent range outing.
307995

[HumptyDumpty]

A month or two ago I bought a S&W 331 at my LGS. It was my second. I have no idea why I traded the first one many years back. Here it is all dirty after a recent range outing.
307995

Now that looks nice.

[Good Cheer]

Liked the Italian 6" barreled .32ACP.
A camp meat son of a gun.

[tejano]

Liked the Italian 6" barreled .32ACP.
A camp meat son of a gun.

Here is mine. 308033

[Green Frog]

Apparently the “King of the 32s” is the one you have at hand (with sufficient ammo around). At least that’s how it works at my house!

Froggie

[JoeJames]

I have a pre-model 30 HE 4" which I loaded per Hatcher's Textbook of Pistols and Revolvers - 98 grain lead bullet with 2.1 grains of Bullseye @750 fps. I used that load because I assumed that is what it was regulated for by S&W and I was correct. It shot to point of aim at 15 yards.

308047

[tejano]

Apparently the “King of the 32s” is the one you have at hand (with sufficient ammo around). At least that’s how it works at my house!

Froggie

Have brass, commercial cast bullets, small pistol primers and powders on hand to keep all my various 32’s fed. I am down to 9. :)

[Good Cheer]

Here is mine. 308033

Oh yeah.

[tejano]

Seen today at my LGS—a S&W 631 32 Magnum 4” kit gun. Price was a firm $995. One of the other regulars snatched it up. I doubt that it was Dale’s. :)

[Green Frog]

No tejano, Dale’s is accounted for and unlikely to become available any time soon. Whoever got that one in the gun shop was a lucky Texican! Most of the prices I’ve seen have been at least a couple of hundred bucks higher. I’m beginning to think this may be the ultimate “woods loafing” gun, especially if I don’t want to carry the weight of my K-framed custom 616 all day.
My attitude about the King 32 is coming much more fluid!
Froggie

[dtknowles]

32 WCF aka 32-20 is the king.

[HWooldridge]

32 WCF aka 32-20 is the king.

Agreed - and it can sure be jazzed up in a bolt gun or other strong action.

[psweigle]

I will have to go with 327 due to its versatility, but, I prefer to shoot 32 s&w long. It's just a pleasure to shoot.

[Green Frog]

Don’t get me wrong, the 32-20 is a great old cartridge and a bunch of really fine guns are chambered for it, BUUUT, with the arrival of the 327 Fed Mag, we have a cartridge with all the power potential and versatility. But none of the reloading challenges or delicate brass problems. I’ll likely hold onto at least one revolver chambered for the venerable 32-20 (likely a single action) but for King of the 32 Cartridge Chamberings, I’ll have to go with the 327 with all of its top end performance while retaining the capability to accept mouse hunting rounds with no effort. In a K-frame S&W you have it all. Can you get individual cartridges that do one job very well, but like the Lord of the Rings, this is the one to “rule them all!” Long Live the King!!

Froggie

[dtknowles]

If you load your own the 32 wcf is everything the 327 is and 32 s&w's and h&r and more. It is the best also with black powder. The 327 was a solution to a problem that did not exist

[mobilemail]

I keep my eyes open locally for a .327 Bisley or GP100, pretty much a unicorn find around here. When I mention .327 at the local gun shops, people look at me like it's a different language.

For the moment I'm pretty happy with my SP101 and Henry rifle. The only thing is I bought the SP101 with a 4" barrel to get the better sights, but that makes it a tougher gun to use for concealed carry. And the whole "don't carry handloads in your carry gun" is a difficult conversation when factory ammo is just plain unavailable.

[Green Frog]

If you load your own the 32 wcf is everything the 327 is and 32 s&w's and h&r and more. It is the best also with black powder. The 327 was a solution to a problem that did not exist

Except for the “load your own” part. The 32-20 case is infamous for loading difficulties and short reloading life. The straight wall cases load easier and last longer. Also, why bother with downloading those finicky semi-bottleneck cases to get 32 S&W velocities and performance? It’s easier to have different case lengths at your disposal for a variety of loadings.

There’s a lot of nostalgia attached to the 32-20… I own a couple myself; but the fact is, it’s been overtaken by the newcomer, the 327 Fed Mag. The king is dead, long live the king!

[Dan Cash]

Except for the “load your own” part. The 32-20 case is infamous for loading difficulties and short reloading life. The straight wall cases load easier and last longer. Also, why bother with downloading those finicky semi-bottleneck cases to get 32 S&W velocities and performance? It’s easier to have different case lengths at your disposal for a variety of loadings.

There’s a lot of nostalgia attached to the 32-20… I own a couple myself; but the fact is, it’s been overtaken by the newcomer, the 327 Fed Mag. The king is dead, long live the king!

The idea that reloading the .32 WCF is a challenge and that brass life is short is pure hog wash. I have cases on their 10th loading with stiff loads that show no signs of failure. The .32 WCF does so much and at lower pressure than the competition.

[rintinglen]

I'm sorry, but those deluded souls suggesting the 32-20 is all that and more in comparison to the 327 are indulging in wishful thinking. I have 3 32-20 revolvers, a Police Positive Special, an Army Special and a S&W M&P. (and I have a browning 53 carbine, too:bigsmyl2:) but in no way can I assert that they are the equal of my Rugers. Except for the Browning, all of the other 32-20's pre-date WW II. Does anyone assert that they are capable of handling 45,000 PSI pressures? My 7 1/2 inch Single 7 will launch a 100 grain boolit at just shy of 1600 fps with a book load of h-110/296, and much more in a Henry Carbine. No 32-20 load in any manual I ever saw will touch that in a revolver. Now you might beat that with a 10" Contender, but there's a reason why they call those "contender only" loads. If one leaves the magnum loads to the .327, the 32-20 hasn't a look-in. And then you don't have to worry about one of your "Hot loads" getting into an antique and turning it into scrap.

No, when I want Magnum 32 performance, I run with the big dog. But when I don't need that noise and power, a gentle 32-20 is a nice thing to have.

[Markwell]

A S&W 631 for $995 is a bargain in today's market. Paid way more than that for mine at the Tulsa show a few years back. That revolver has led to a couple of Single Sixes in .32 Mag. and meeting the likes of Fermin Garza and Ronnie Wells. The .32 H&R is just what we needed at this point in our hand gunning journey.

[megasupermagnum]

327 Federal, 32-20, and 30 carbine all have about the same case volume, at least close enough any difference is inconsequential. Loaded the same, they all send equal weight bullets about as fast.

The only real differences are their history and their intended purpose. The 32-20 is of course the granddaddy of 32's, originally a general purpose rifle round that has stood the test of time. It happens to work good in revolvers too, and probably would have been more so if the 38 special hadn't come along.

327 Federal is just a modern 32-20. It didn't need that little extra bit of room for black powder. Every 327 federal chambered gun is made to handle full 45,000 psi loads.

The great thing is you don't have to choose. You can get an extra 32-20 cylinder for a 327 federal revolver, then all the 32's are fair game.

[Texas by God]

Well put, this.^^^^


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Larry Gibson]

Never got interested in the 327 Magnum. No criticism with those that do, just my humble opinion.

I've worked with and shot several 32-30 Colt DA revolvers over the years, but I always loaded them back down with the same cast bullets to about what I was getting with the 32 S&WL so there really wasn't much, if any, difference. I used a Ruger 30 carbine for about a year and quickly learned full bore 30 Carbine loads in the revolver were not my cup of tea either. I ended loading it down so the 311316s were doing about what they would do in a Ruger 32 H&R Single Six. Thus, when I got my 32 H&R Ruger SS [1st run] with 6 1/2" barrel I had found the perfect 32 revolver/cartridge IMHO. I still really like my 32 S&WL M31 but I mostly use the Ruger SS.

As to the 327 Magnum, after seeing and hearing one firing at the range with factory loads trying to be a 357 Magnum wannabe, I quickly decided why? I would only load it down to the level of the 32 S&WL or the 32 H&R Magnum anyway so why bother? If i want a 357 Magnum revolver, I'll use one. If i want a pleasant 32 revolver to shoot I'l use either my 32 S&WL M31 or my 32 H&R Ruger SS.

[sixshot]

What! Why be so sensible about it! The truth is when you push on the gas they all get LOUD. It just depends on what you want but when you lean on them they all are close to the same. I like to shoot the single sixes or my Buckeye with the 32 magnum cylinder in it. Ground Squirrels hate it, there's zero recoil from that heavy Buckeye & I would never consider rechambering that cylinder to 327 like some do. I have several 327's & 32/20's if I want to wake up the dead.

Dick

[Green Frog]

Larry,

If I read your post correctly you, like my close friend Dale53, are working with insufficient information and experience. When my Project 616 arrived and we took it out to the range I happily fired away and enjoyed every round. He heard the sound, saw the flash, and felt the Earth shake and quickly declined to join me in my near religious experience. All I can say is you really owe it to yourself to try it. You may even change your mind.

“Real men shoot 327s because anything else is just a 32!” :bigsmyl2:

With all possible respect,
Froggie

[Outpost75]

I am of the same frame of mind as Larry. I don't own a .32 H&R Mag., but have several sturdy .32S&W Long revolvers which can be safely loaded to that level using loads which Larry tested for me. I have two Ruger Blackhawk .30 Carbine revolvers which I mostly load to .32-20 level, but can be used full snort if wanted. The gun of that pair I use the most was shortened to 5-1/4" to be handier for field use. Either of the Blackhawks can use .32-20 ammo in the .30 Carbine cylinder if cases are trimmed to 1.28".

[Larry Gibson]

Ah, but I have thoroughly had that "religious experience" with the 327..... [smilie=l::drinks:

[tejano]

I have one 327, a Ruger GP100. I bought it several years ago because I got an exceptional deal on it. I have a fired a total 50 rounds of Federal 327 through it. Everything else has been 32 Long or 32 Mag. If I ever decide to hot rod it again, I have 50 once fired cases to wear out. :)

[mobilemail]

I must admit that after owning a .327 SP-101 4" for a while, I kind of wish I had bought two guns, a 3" SP-101 or similar and a 5-6" GP100. The 4" is a little long for carry and a little light for tougher loads, IMO. Does anyone have first hand experience with the Taurus 327?

[Green Frog]

To me, a K frame Smith or a Ruger Blackhawk provide the ideal platform to manage the 327 FM, the J frame S&W and Single Six handle the 32 H&R nicely, and even my tiny little I frame Smith snubby is comfortable with 32 S&W Longs. Of course you can always go down, but not up, so my “Project 616” eats all three with gusto.

If I could bring myself to rechamber my Buckeye Special 32 combo gun’s 32 H&R cylinder to 327 FM, or ever get around to having a 32-20 cylinder cut for Project 616 either or both of these would be “do it all” 32 revolvers. YMMV!

Froggie

PS Tejano, you have made my argument for having a medium to large frame revolver in 327. For everyday casual use, you can shoot everything down to “cat sneeze” 32 S&W L loads. Then if you want to wake the dead with fire breathing, ground shaking loads, you can put in ear plugs and add muffs and have at it! :Fire:

[rintinglen]

308918308919308920308921

These are my .327's.

My favorite is the SS7 7 1/2", but all of them are nice, now. I will say that new Rugers in the last decade were pretty poor. Both the stainless SS7's had to be worked on to be serviceable, and the SP-101 had a trigger that wouldn't have seemed out of place on a 39.95 Iver Johnson. I bought a spring kit, from M-carbo, IIRC, and that made a world of difference on that gun. I sent the 7.5 incher back to Ruger, but the 5.5 inch gun I repaired myself.
Only the Talo 4.62 inch gun was what I would consider as good right from the box. But I don't like the Big Dot sights on that one, so one of these days I will get around to replacing them.

I had a 4 5/8 inch Blackhawk which was very accurate, but much too heavy for the caliber. It would just about work as a boat anchor in a gale. I sold it to my brother who wanted it more than I did, with no regrets.

[Rodfac]

I'd vote for the .32 H&R...superb accuracy in my Ruger Single Sixes and S&W M-16, economical with 100 gr RCBS 31-98 LSWC's, with plenty of smack for close in predators or a leisurely day punching holes in paper.

Low recoil in my guns with moderate noise level also make it a great choice for introducing new shooters to center-fire revolvers and a delight for seasoned six-gunners.

For more bullet weight and speed, I step up to a .357, for less, the choice is one of my .22's. One poster here on CB's referred to the .32 H&R as his 'reloadable' .22...an apt description IMHO. Best regards, Rod

https://i.postimg.cc/WpwbPqyB/32-Rugers.jpg (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/d33dgczh/IMG-E3347.jpg (https://postimages.org/)

[Green Frog]

Every time a thread opens up about 32s, whether loading, different models, or any other variation on the theme, there seems to be a great deal of interest. When you go to gun shows or stores, ammo available or even guns themselves command a premium if they’re available at all.

I wonder whether it would be worthwhile to organize some sort of an interest group along the lines of of the “44 Associates” of another era. Perhaps we could call ourselves the “32 Aficionados” or some such. So what do you think? I’ve bookmarked this thread since my PM box fills up so fast. I’ll respond to you via a PM if you express interest and give you my email so we can establish a list.

So, whuduyathink?
Green Frog

[justindad]

I'd vote for the .32 H&R...superb accuracy in my Ruger Single Sixes and S&W M-16, economical with 100 gr RCBS 31-98 LSWC's, with plenty of smack for close in predators or a leisurely day punching holes in paper.

Low recoil in my guns with moderate noise level also make it a great choice for introducing new shooters to center-fire revolvers and a delight for seasoned six-gunners.

For more bullet weight and speed, I step up to a .357, for less, the choice is one of my .22's. One poster here on CB's referred to it as his 'reloadable' .22...an apt description IMHO. Best regards, Rod

https://i.postimg.cc/WpwbPqyB/32-Rugers.jpg (https://postimages.org/)


That birds head revolver is beautiful. Is that a Uberti?

[megasupermagnum]

Every time a thread opens up about 32s, whether loading, different models, or any other variation on the theme, there seems to be a great deal of interest. When you go to gun shows or stores, ammo available or even guns themselves command a premium if they’re available at all.

I wonder whether it would be worthwhile to organize some sort of an interest group along the lines of of the “44 Associates” of another era. Perhaps we could call ourselves the “32 Aficionados” or some such. So what do you think? I’ve bookmarked this thread since my PM box fills up so fast. I’ll respond to you via a PM if you express interest and give you my email so we can establish a list.

So, whuduyathink?
Green Frog

It depends on where you are. Lots of 32 fans in Aberdeen. Even at the worst of the shortage there was a couple choices of 327 federal ammo, and at prices similar or less than 357 magnum. We had that Hammerdown load in stock before it was ever available online. I haven't looked for 32 s&w, but I have seen 32 s&w long. 32 h&r has been on the shelf every time I've looked. Every store seems to have 32 ACP.

[Green Frog]

megasurpermagnum you just listed more 32 ammo in one sentence than I've seen for sale here in VA in the last 18 months! Do you guys still have that great pheasant hunting out there? Maybe I could use that as an excuse to come out there, then smuggle a carload of ammo back to Virginia. Wait... you didn't mention prices. Does all of that ammo have bullets made of unobtanium?

[rintinglen]

^^^^+1. If I didn't reload, my 32's would be just about dead except for the 32 ACP's. I did pick up a couple of boxes for them last year. But otherwise, nada. I have seen more 30 Super Carry than 32 ammo--6 boxes.:roll:

[mobilemail]

Every time a thread opens up about 32s, whether loading, different models, or any other variation on the theme, there seems to be a great deal of interest. When you go to gun shows or stores, ammo available or even guns themselves command a premium if they’re available at all.

I wonder whether it would be worthwhile to organize some sort of an interest group along the lines of of the “44 Associates” of another era. Perhaps we could call ourselves the “32 Aficionados” or some such. So what do you think? I’ve bookmarked this thread since my PM box fills up so fast. I’ll respond to you via a PM if you express interest and give you my email so we can establish a list.

So, whuduyathink?
Green Frog

Keep me informed!
"The thirty-too-much-fun shooters"

[mobilemail]

I think I've had my SP101 for four years, and I can literally count on one hand the number of times I was able to buy .327FM ammo off the shelf. I've seen 32-long and 32ACP fairly often, but have never seen 32H&R. I thought I was just rural, now I feel like the dark side of the moon....

[megasupermagnum]

megasurpermagnum you just listed more 32 ammo in one sentence than I've seen for sale here in VA in the last 18 months! Do you guys still have that great pheasant hunting out there? Maybe I could use that as an excuse to come out there, then smuggle a carload of ammo back to Virginia. Wait... you didn't mention prices. Does all of that ammo have bullets made of unobtanium?

I don't buy much for ammo. The only thing I really buy is the Speer Gold Dot 100gr in 327 federal. Last I remember it was around $34 for a 20 round box. I think the 127gr Hammerdown was $37 a 20 round box. I haven't seen the Federal AE in a while. There was one more, but I can't remember what it was. Possibly that Federal 100gr with the Swift A-frame bullet. I have not seen the new Federal 104gr HST yet, that's what I'd really like to try.

I honestly can't remember what the other 32's prices were. They seemed inline with what I've seen elsewhere. The only reloading bullets I've seen have been 85gr and 100gr Hornady XTP's. This was all at Sodak Sports. Unfortunately primer prices are just as high there as online, but they have always had them. I haven't seen a bare shelf yet.

Lots of pheasants here. There's nothing but pheasant farms and dentist offices in Aberdeen. Tons of them get released by the farms so a lot of them aren't really wild birds. By late season they are as smart as anything. I don't hunt them much, I'd rather have duck.

[Txcowboy52]

.327 Federal Magnum hands down! Besides being able to shoot the Long and the H&R, ammo is available. Can you find any 32/20 ? If you do you might have a stroke at the price .

[megasupermagnum]

.327 Federal Magnum hands down! Besides being able to shoot the Long and the H&R, ammo is available. Can you find any 32/20 ? If you do you might have a stroke at the price .

I don't think I've ever seen a 32-20 round for sale in my lifetime, but it must exist since it is still fairly well known. Brass isn't all that hard to find for it.

[Green Frog]

Mega super magnum, with all the other 32 cal handgun cartridges available there in SD and its usefulness in both carbines and revolvers, I’m surprised you don’t see 32-20 all that often. Although it was first loaded for long guns, the ability it had to be used in revolvers as well made it the longest lasting of the hyphenated calibers around here. I bet that if you surveyed a few SD old timers, especially in the more rural areas, you would find a surprising number of 32-20 revolvers still hanging out, ready to be used. I see 32-20 ammo at gun shops and shows in VA about as often as 32 H&R and 327 Fed Mag. [smilie=w:

At this point, although I still own a few 32-20 revolvers, I must admit that when I want to snort flame and make the ground shake, one of my 327s will be more likely to get the nod (to acknowledge the thread title, “King of the 32s”). In fact I plan to thin the herd a bit this Spring of 32-20s as well as a couple of my 32 S&W Longs on I frames. At my age I can only shoot so many guns and I only have so many grands to leave them to. :-?

BTW, will the person who PM’ed me to “enroll” in our proposed 32 group send me another? I sent you an email but it bounced. I had unfortunately deleted your original PM. :killingpc

Froggie

[charlie b]

I haven't see .32acp for a long time. Heck, I haven't seen .357mag around here in a long time. Some .38spl. Minimal .45acp. More .30 carry than any of those. And there is enough 9mm to fill a dump truck.

[Green Frog]

AKtinman, it's your address I seem to have entered wrong in my email, because it bounced.
Charlie the Frog

[AKtinman]

AKtinman, it's your address I seem to have entered wrong in my email, because it bounced.
Charlie the Frog

email sent.

Like you, I'm downsizing, though my .32 tribe has been growing ;)

[Green Frog]

Got it, AKtinman! Having both com and net in the address messed with my head! You might want to edit it out of your post now.

Froggie

[Green Frog]

From the poll results posted as of this morning, it looks like a lot of people lean toward the 327 at nearly a third of all respondents, with the 32-20 and the H&R hovering right around a quarter. Interesting poll! Be sure to join us in the 32 Retinue if you are a true believer.
Froggie

[RJM52]

Just lucked out in finding a Ruger GP-100 4" stainless with two boxes of Federal AE 100 grain ammo for a decent price... Bought one when they first came out and sold it to a friend... Kinda missed the gun and when this one came up locally I grabbed it...

[mobilemail]

I always keep my eye out for a 6" .327 GP100 (I've actually never checked to see if they made one...) and a Beretta 81BB in .32ACP.

I think .32 must be the caliber for people who love a challenge. :) You can't find .327 anywhere (which is why I handload), and .32ACP is a pain to load and shoot with the tiny powder charges and disappearing brass.

But stil...I like it!

[Green Frog]

If a serious reloader is also a caster, the only problem is finding sufficient primers and powder. Powder is used in such small doses it seems like a few pounds last forever. Primers have become the bane of reloaders' existence, but that's true regardless of your choice of caliber. Brass, once gathered up in fair amounts, seems to last forever. Of course 32 ACP is the exception... those little buggers seem to be genetically bred to escape and hide.

Back to the bullets, I hope to write a good long post showing the wide variety of bullet designs available out there. Friend Dale53 and I have succeeded in accumulating about a dozen or so different moulds so we should make a good showing. One that has eluded me so far is the long discontinued Lyman 314631. I was given a nice trial supply of them from a mould customized by beagle... it would have probably been better if he'd never showed them to me because I won't be happy now until I have one of my own. No matter how many 32 moulds I get there just always seems to be one more I "need".

Froggie

[cwlongshot]

Some 32 Discussion.

https://youtu.be/y1KqJTW_iZs

[Walks]

I like the idea of the small light trail gun. Back in the mid 1980's I choose a SSM in 5 1/2", because I had a .22LR/Mag in 5 1/2". Same holster for both. Shot mainly the .32S&W Long as I didn't seem to need a magnum. S&WL would still knock over a bunny at 50ft. Don't have/want a Single Seven, Saw a guy at the range shoot one when they first came out. Seems there wasn't much room to load a .32cal cartridge in that 7 shot cylinder. If I were to get one today I'd still prefer a 6 shot. Too traditional and hidebound.

[Rodfac]

.32 Aficianados! Geez Frog, sign me up, I love those little buggers. Hoping to acquire a Smith M-31 in the near or far future as well...Rod

[mobilemail]

I like the idea of the small light trail gun. Back in the mid 1980's I choose a SSM in 5 1/2", because I had a .22LR/Mag in 5 1/2". Same holster for both. Shot mainly the .32S&W Long as I didn't seem to need a magnum. S&WL would still knock over a bunny at 50ft. Don't have/want a Single Seven, Saw a guy at the range shoot one when they first came out. Seems there wasn't much room to load a .32cal cartridge in that 7 shot cylinder. If I were to get one today I'd still prefer a 6 shot. Too traditional and hidebound.

I think a 4" SP-101 in .327 like the one I have would fill that bill well. You have the option to shoot low or high power loads as desired.

[Thundarstick]

I have a 4 inch and a 6 inch GP100, I much prefer the 4 inch.