Is .327 Federal Mag Still Viable?
- Thread starter Mr. D
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I think it's one of the better ideas to recently come out and wish it catches on.
I would be nice if the smaller sizes of .32s became cheap and plentiful enough to be used for plinking and practice on a regular basis.
I like the fact that they are reloadable and because of that do not promote waste.
The .327 Magnum from what I read offers a good self defense platform for those that are recoil sensitive.
The variety of different loads (.32 short, long, HR mag, etc..) you can use in it gives a lot of flexibility as far as tailoring a load that someone is comfortable with using factory ammo alone let alone custom hand loads.
It would also be a great caliber to use in small handguns made for small hands and also for concealables if you ask me.
I would be nice if the smaller sizes of .32s became cheap and plentiful enough to be used for plinking and practice on a regular basis.
I like the fact that they are reloadable and because of that do not promote waste.
The .327 Magnum from what I read offers a good self defense platform for those that are recoil sensitive.
The variety of different loads (.32 short, long, HR mag, etc..) you can use in it gives a lot of flexibility as far as tailoring a load that someone is comfortable with using factory ammo alone let alone custom hand loads.
It would also be a great caliber to use in small handguns made for small hands and also for concealables if you ask me.
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horsemen61
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I hope it's here to stay
Stainz
Member
I think it is still viable. My only .327 Federal chambered firearm is still my 632 Pro, which I ordered upon first sight in S&W's literature:
It was a long wait - and now it's been canned for years. I still like it, although the 115gr Gold Dots in .327 Federal sure feel .357 Magnum-ish from it's comp-less 2 1/8" barrel. I am sure that the wood 'S&W 60 Pro' grips enhance the recoil - but they sure feel and look better than the OEM Goodyears - to me.
Besides... what a useful tool - a .32-ish shooter. I've shot .327 Federal, .32 H&RM, .32 S&WL, .32 S&W, and .32 ACP, with it's vestige of a rim to catch on the ejector star. While some of my commercial ammo and reloads are anemic - proper shot placement makes them still a decent protection round. Reloading brass and bullets are still available, as is some ammo. I wouldn't think a minute about buying a Single 7... if I wanted a SA revolver. I'd sell something to fund a DA K-frame in .327 Federal, of course!
Stainz
PS I checked Grafs this AM - they have an assortment of Federal and Speer .327 in stock - at their regular price - inc shipping (You pay a handling fee.). It's been available!
It was a long wait - and now it's been canned for years. I still like it, although the 115gr Gold Dots in .327 Federal sure feel .357 Magnum-ish from it's comp-less 2 1/8" barrel. I am sure that the wood 'S&W 60 Pro' grips enhance the recoil - but they sure feel and look better than the OEM Goodyears - to me.
Besides... what a useful tool - a .32-ish shooter. I've shot .327 Federal, .32 H&RM, .32 S&WL, .32 S&W, and .32 ACP, with it's vestige of a rim to catch on the ejector star. While some of my commercial ammo and reloads are anemic - proper shot placement makes them still a decent protection round. Reloading brass and bullets are still available, as is some ammo. I wouldn't think a minute about buying a Single 7... if I wanted a SA revolver. I'd sell something to fund a DA K-frame in .327 Federal, of course!
Stainz
PS I checked Grafs this AM - they have an assortment of Federal and Speer .327 in stock - at their regular price - inc shipping (You pay a handling fee.). It's been available!
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Deaf Smith
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Tallball
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I hope it becomes more popular. It is a cartridge with lots of potential. I wanted one, but couldn't find one in my price range. I "settled" for a 32 H&R magnum.
Like so many have said, a handgun in this caliber will always be viable, because even if no one makes the cartridge anymore, there are plenty of other 32 cartridges you can shoot with it. I have fired more 32acp through my 32 revolver than any other kind of shell, since it is comparatively cheap and easy to find.
Like so many have said, a handgun in this caliber will always be viable, because even if no one makes the cartridge anymore, there are plenty of other 32 cartridges you can shoot with it. I have fired more 32acp through my 32 revolver than any other kind of shell, since it is comparatively cheap and easy to find.
gunman5646
Member
327 ammo
Since the 327 is nothing more than a stretch version of the 32 H&R, which itself is a stretch version of the 32 S&W long and 32 S&W etc etc. There are five different ammos that will shoot safely in it. If you check on line, you'll find some kind of ammo to shoot. When reloading, you can use the 32 S&W dies to load the 32 S&W, 32 S&W long, 32 H&R, and the 327 Federal. You'll need to change the expander die, and bullet seating die settings. This caliber is dream for the reloader.
You probably not find it at WalMart, but call around , the Single Seven is really catching on and most LGS will carry ammo for guns they sell. My personal take on it: the 327 is the perfect sportsmans caliber, with the added benefit of being an adequite self defense round. I have all three barrel lengths of Single Seven, plus a 4 5/8 and a 6 1/2 32 H&R SSM.
Since the 327 is nothing more than a stretch version of the 32 H&R, which itself is a stretch version of the 32 S&W long and 32 S&W etc etc. There are five different ammos that will shoot safely in it. If you check on line, you'll find some kind of ammo to shoot. When reloading, you can use the 32 S&W dies to load the 32 S&W, 32 S&W long, 32 H&R, and the 327 Federal. You'll need to change the expander die, and bullet seating die settings. This caliber is dream for the reloader.
You probably not find it at WalMart, but call around , the Single Seven is really catching on and most LGS will carry ammo for guns they sell. My personal take on it: the 327 is the perfect sportsmans caliber, with the added benefit of being an adequite self defense round. I have all three barrel lengths of Single Seven, plus a 4 5/8 and a 6 1/2 32 H&R SSM.
RealGun
Member
I was encouraged to be able to find a gas check, hard cast, lead bullet for it (Rimrock). I expect that only the Federal Magnum loads would gain advantage from or require gas checks for the hot loads, high pressures, and velocities of the 327.
When the reloading suppliers get or lose interest in a cartridge, I think that is the real barometer of interest in sustaining a caliber. We already have our "reloader's calibers" like 44 S&W Special, 41 Magnum, et al., for which store ammo is all but non-existent, especially if you don't care for Hornady's FTX bullets requiring shortened cases and special reload provisions.
When the reloading suppliers get or lose interest in a cartridge, I think that is the real barometer of interest in sustaining a caliber. We already have our "reloader's calibers" like 44 S&W Special, 41 Magnum, et al., for which store ammo is all but non-existent, especially if you don't care for Hornady's FTX bullets requiring shortened cases and special reload provisions.
JustsayMo
Member
Some of the 30 caliber bullets I cast with Lee, Lyman and RCBS molds shoot well in my "32" caliber revolvers and rifles.
The Lyman 311008 and the RCBS 32-98 SWC both shoot great in my 30 caliber rifles and 32 caliber revolvers and rifles. The Lee "Soup Can" (309-113 RF, if I remember correctly) drops a little small but by gas checking it with my .314" sizer does show some potential.
I've not had any issues with plain based bullets in my Single Seven when properly sized and lubed at velocities up to 1500 fps. My 32 H&R Marlin 1894 did well up to around 1800 fps before it really showed any signs of needing a gas check.
Every gun is different but generally speaking getting the size right and using a quality lube will negate leading issues.
The Lyman 311008 and the RCBS 32-98 SWC both shoot great in my 30 caliber rifles and 32 caliber revolvers and rifles. The Lee "Soup Can" (309-113 RF, if I remember correctly) drops a little small but by gas checking it with my .314" sizer does show some potential.
I've not had any issues with plain based bullets in my Single Seven when properly sized and lubed at velocities up to 1500 fps. My 32 H&R Marlin 1894 did well up to around 1800 fps before it really showed any signs of needing a gas check.
Every gun is different but generally speaking getting the size right and using a quality lube will negate leading issues.
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A few years back I helped a buddy out who needed a little cash by buying his GP100 in .327 Federal Magnum. The idea was he'd buy it back when he could. I still have it and I still shoot it.
I like the gun and the cartridge; it's a lot of fun to shoot. My standard load for it is a 71 grain Berry's plated bullet over a rather modest charge of Ramshot True Blue. It's accurate and easy to shoot in the GP100.
I'd never have bought one under normal circumstances since to me it just seemed a little too "gimmicky" with no real advantages. But then since when do new cartridges require a rational need to exist? It just another neat big boy toy I enjoy from time to time.
I like the gun and the cartridge; it's a lot of fun to shoot. My standard load for it is a 71 grain Berry's plated bullet over a rather modest charge of Ramshot True Blue. It's accurate and easy to shoot in the GP100.
I'd never have bought one under normal circumstances since to me it just seemed a little too "gimmicky" with no real advantages. But then since when do new cartridges require a rational need to exist? It just another neat big boy toy I enjoy from time to time.
RealGun
Member
But if you buy your lead bullets.....?
JustsayMo
Member
Some companies offer cast bullets in a variety of sizes for one caliber. in 45-70 it is common to see .457-459", 30 call .308-311". Some will even sell them unlubed as cast if you buy them direct.
Pan lubing is easy and Lee makes push-through sizers that work on your press for many calibers and they've made me custom sizers for just a few bucks more. Casting pays for itself quickly and isn't rocket surgery, even I can do it.
I've retrieved bullets from water jugs and even sand backstops that had most of the commercial lube still packed into the lube grooves. As one would expect these bullets would lead up the bore fairly quick.
Gas checks and hard alloys can overcome some deficiencies and are less work. Lots of paths to the same destination.
Pan lubing is easy and Lee makes push-through sizers that work on your press for many calibers and they've made me custom sizers for just a few bucks more. Casting pays for itself quickly and isn't rocket surgery, even I can do it.
I've retrieved bullets from water jugs and even sand backstops that had most of the commercial lube still packed into the lube grooves. As one would expect these bullets would lead up the bore fairly quick.
Gas checks and hard alloys can overcome some deficiencies and are less work. Lots of paths to the same destination.
CraigC
Sixgun Nut
Also Cast Performance and Beartooth.
.32H&R level loads shouldn't need a gas check.
Panzerschwein
member
Amen, Brother.He he he he...
Ruger has just released a SP101 chambered for it.
My next gun
This new Ruger SP101 six shooter in .327 Federal Magnum with a 4.2" bbl is proof that God exists and that the Baby Jesus loves us. I will be getting one as well!
"This new Ruger SP101 six shooter in .327 Federal Magnum with a 4.2" bbl is proof that God exists and that the Baby Jesus loves us. I will be getting one as well! "
What about carryability with the 4.2"? I've read/heard that anything over 3" becomes difficult to constant carry, especially when sitting. Does the 101's slimmer and lighter design allow the .327 to be a better carry even with the 4"? OR, are we going to have to wait to see if Ruger does the right thing and comes out with the 3.06" again?
What about carryability with the 4.2"? I've read/heard that anything over 3" becomes difficult to constant carry, especially when sitting. Does the 101's slimmer and lighter design allow the .327 to be a better carry even with the 4"? OR, are we going to have to wait to see if Ruger does the right thing and comes out with the 3.06" again?
I've been thinking about it and I'm not waiting. I've read too many accounts of guys passing on a .327 because they were waiting for something slightly different - some feature or another, and then the .327s were discontinued and the prices on the used guns skyrocketed.
If Ruger chambers their 3" LCRx in .327 then I'll purchase that too.
JustsayMo
Member
I've concealed carried my 4.2" 357 SP101 without issue, both IWB and OWB. Heck I've got a 5.5" Vaquero that I've carried concealed in a Mernickle high ride holster. Very comfortable and worked well with just an untucked shirt. Get a good holster and you'll have no problems.
zb338
Member
I saw somewhere that Ruger is coming out with a double action
4 inch revolver in .327 Mag.. I don't know what they call it. I just
bought a Single Seven with a 4 inch bbl. and I really love the gun.
It is flat shooting and very accurate.
Zeke
4 inch revolver in .327 Mag.. I don't know what they call it. I just
bought a Single Seven with a 4 inch bbl. and I really love the gun.
It is flat shooting and very accurate.
Zeke
Panzerschwein
member
Yeah it's the new SP101 in .327 Fed Mag with the 4.2" bbl and fiber optic sighting!!
With the ride high ride IWB holster, it'll be a cinch to CCW especially since the SP is as small as a J-frame as far as thickness goes. With the 4" barrel, accuracy and stopping power will be maximized.
Can .32 ACP not be fired accurately out of a .327?
Doesn't the .32 ACP bullet have a slightly larger diameter than .327 Federal Magnum?
I've read where some people complain about their .327 revolvers not being accurate with .32 ACP
Doesn't the .32 ACP bullet have a slightly larger diameter than .327 Federal Magnum?
I've read where some people complain about their .327 revolvers not being accurate with .32 ACP
A Pause for the Coz
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Sure you can carry a SP101 w/ 4 inch barrel.
I carry a Full Size 1911 with a 5inch barrel IWB comfortably.
Just need to make sure you have a quality holster and good gun belt.
In my case I had to add a pair of Parry suspenders.
But I have to wear them gun or no gun. other wise its pants on the ground.
I carry a Full Size 1911 with a 5inch barrel IWB comfortably.
Just need to make sure you have a quality holster and good gun belt.
In my case I had to add a pair of Parry suspenders.
But I have to wear them gun or no gun. other wise its pants on the ground.
JustsayMo
Member
I haven't shot enough 32 acp, 32 S&W long and shorts out of my 327 & 32 H&R Single Six and Seven to definitively proclaim them accurate or not but they all show promise. The point of aim/point of impact is progressively lower with the reduced weight and velocity of the projectiles but all I've tried would "group."
Case in point, out of curiosity I loaded some 0' buckhot (~.314" and not very round) into some 32 H&R cases to see how they would do.
As a caster there really wasn't any economy in using the buckshot so I abandoned the idea.
I've shot as-cast bullets as much as .004" over what my bore slugged. Accuracy was degraded but still in the useable range. On a side note the oversized cartridges would not cycle through my Marlin 1894 rifle, but did slide right into the Rugers cylinder.
I have brass and ammo in the 32 caliber chamberings that will fit in my 32 caliber Single Sixes/Sevens and SP101 (3") but find I use the 32 H&R and 327 loads a vast majority of the time simply because the range of versatility of those loads will still shoot to the sights.
My low end load is a 100 grain SWC jogging along at a little over 900 fps which is dandy for Grouse, plinking and target shooting. All the way up to a 115 grain Cast bullet going right around 1400 fps that knocks over steel silhouette targets impressively at Ram range all using the same basic sight picture.
Case in point, out of curiosity I loaded some 0' buckhot (~.314" and not very round) into some 32 H&R cases to see how they would do.
As a caster there really wasn't any economy in using the buckshot so I abandoned the idea.
I've shot as-cast bullets as much as .004" over what my bore slugged. Accuracy was degraded but still in the useable range. On a side note the oversized cartridges would not cycle through my Marlin 1894 rifle, but did slide right into the Rugers cylinder.
I have brass and ammo in the 32 caliber chamberings that will fit in my 32 caliber Single Sixes/Sevens and SP101 (3") but find I use the 32 H&R and 327 loads a vast majority of the time simply because the range of versatility of those loads will still shoot to the sights.
My low end load is a 100 grain SWC jogging along at a little over 900 fps which is dandy for Grouse, plinking and target shooting. All the way up to a 115 grain Cast bullet going right around 1400 fps that knocks over steel silhouette targets impressively at Ram range all using the same basic sight picture.
- Bullets: 32 ACP is 0.311". 32 S&W, S&W Long, H&R Mag, and 327 all use 0.312".
- Neck Diameter: ACP = 0.336" / The rest are 0.337"
- Rim Thickness: ACP = 0.045" / the rest are 0.055". This results in some revolvers having light primer strikes and not firing 32 ACP
ACP also has the shortest case length so the bullet has a bigger jump to get from the case to the chamber throat. ACP is 0.680" / 327 is 1.200"
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