.32 S&W- finally a load that I like.
Aug 21, 2017 16:29:33 GMT -5
awp101, revolvergeek, and 1 more like this
Post by tinkerpearce on Aug 21, 2017 16:29:33 GMT -5
Sharing this because load data for this round is getting a bit scarce. Needless to say you should work up to this load, only use it in good quality firearms in good condition... you know the drill. I've tried several different loads which were never entirely satisfactory. I was using a very short-barreled gun, and with some loads a significant portion of the powder simply wouldn't ignite. Most loads would tear the target rather than punching a hole, indicating very low velocity. I bought a box of cast 96gr. LRNFPs for my .32 S&W long and decided to try them out. I used Red Dot because it has been found to mimic the pressure curves of black powder, though naturally you use less of it. Use this load at your own risk of course, and I have only tested it in a S&W handgun so I cannot recommend it for any other brand.
96gr LRNFP, 2.0gr. Red Dot, CCI small pistol primer.
This was a rapid-fire target shot at seven yards. Recoil is comparable to Remington factory ammunition, and accuracy is at least as well as I can shoot. I don't have any chronograph data or penetration tests for this load, but it is pleasing to shoot and has given good results in my little Smith. In a longer-barreled gun this would probably be a decent load for rats, squirrels, rabbits and similarly-sized creatures; I view this as a reloadable .22LR substitute. I plan to try it in my 4" .32 S&W Long Hand Ejector next time out.
The gun pictured is a custom S&W .32 Double Action 4th Model with the barrel shortened to 1-5/8", a new front sight and ergonomic grip made from walnut. The original gun as I got it was mechanically sound, but definitely not in collectable condition ( bad nickel, some pitting and I suspect the 3-1/4" barrel was actually slightly bent.)
96gr LRNFP, 2.0gr. Red Dot, CCI small pistol primer.
This was a rapid-fire target shot at seven yards. Recoil is comparable to Remington factory ammunition, and accuracy is at least as well as I can shoot. I don't have any chronograph data or penetration tests for this load, but it is pleasing to shoot and has given good results in my little Smith. In a longer-barreled gun this would probably be a decent load for rats, squirrels, rabbits and similarly-sized creatures; I view this as a reloadable .22LR substitute. I plan to try it in my 4" .32 S&W Long Hand Ejector next time out.
The gun pictured is a custom S&W .32 Double Action 4th Model with the barrel shortened to 1-5/8", a new front sight and ergonomic grip made from walnut. The original gun as I got it was mechanically sound, but definitely not in collectable condition ( bad nickel, some pitting and I suspect the 3-1/4" barrel was actually slightly bent.)
