Understanding the Versatility of .32 Caliber Revolver Ammunition

If you're a collector of firearms or simply curious about the history of old weapons, you might have come across a .32 caliber revolver like the Colt New Police revolver. These revolvers, made primarily between 1890 and 1920, were designed for compact use and were popular among law enforcement and military personnel. However, what types of ammunition can you effectively use with a .32 caliber revolver? This article aims to clarify the ammunition options and provide insights into the accuracy of these revolvers.

Types of Ammunition for .32 Caliber Revolvers

The .32 caliber revolver, particularly the Colt New Police revolver, is capable of firing several types of ammunition, including:

It is important to note that while these revolvers are designed to handle these cartridges, the specific revolver may have limitations based on its design and shooting history. For example, the revolver mentioned in the article, a Colt New Police revolver made around 1900 to 1910, was primarily used with .32 Colt Short rounds due to the capstan case areas cracking when firing .32 Colt Long rounds.

Accuracy Considerations

The accuracy of a .32 caliber revolver can vary significantly based on the model and the state of the firearm. Generally, the revolver mentioned, while still functional, is not considered to be very accurate. Factors such as barrel wear, condition of the moving parts, and previous usage can all affect the accuracy. Despite its potentially low accuracy, this revolver can still be valuable for its historical significance and could be passed down as a family heirloom.

Safety Precautions

While it is possible that some revolvers, such as the Ruger Single Seven, may be able to fire cartridges like the 7.65 mm Auto or .32 ACP, it is crucial to consult the owner's manual and a professional gunsmith before attempting to do so. Such ammunition changes can result in issues related to headspace, which can be unsafe and potentially damaging to the firearm.

Revolver Variations and Custom Modifications

Some models of revolvers, such as the U.S. Revolver Co. pocket revolver, are designed to chamber only one type of round. In contrast, others, like the Ruger Single Six, offer more versatility. The Ruger Single Six was chambered in .32-20 and came with a second cylinder chambered in .32 HR, allowing for the use of .32 SW Long and .32 SW rounds with the .32 HR cylinder. While the Single Six is no longer manufactured, enthusiasts can still find these rare firearms on the market for sale.

Proper maintenance and understanding the capabilities and limitations of your revolver are key to ensuring safe and effective use. Whether you're a collector or a serious firearm user, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the ammunition options and consult professional advice before making any modifications.

For collectors and firearm enthusiasts, the .32 caliber revolver remains a fascinating piece of history. Whether it's aimed at preserving family traditions or ensuring safety, understanding the ammunition options and the accuracy considerations of these revolvers is crucial.