.32 H&R Mag vs. .327 Federal Magnum

Attribute	.32 H&R Mag	.327 Federal Magnum
Caliber	.32	.327
Bullet diameter (inches)	.312	.312
Case length (inches)	1.075	1.200
Maximum pressure (psi)	21,000	45,000
Velocity (fps)	900	1,400

History

The .32 H&R Magnum was introduced in 1984 as a joint development between Harrington & Richardson and Federal Cartridge Company. It was designed as a more powerful alternative to the .32 S&W Long. The .327 Federal Magnum, on the other hand, was introduced in 2007 by Federal Cartridge Company and Sturm, Ruger & Co. It was designed to offer increased performance over the .32 H&R Magnum.

Ballistics

When comparing the ballistics of the two cartridges, the .327 Federal Magnum has a clear advantage. It typically fires a 100-grain bullet at around 1,400 feet per second, while the .32 H&R Magnum fires a 85-grain bullet at around 1,200 feet per second. This results in the .327 Federal Magnum having more energy and a flatter trajectory than the .32 H&R Magnum.

Recoil

Due to the increased power of the .327 Federal Magnum, it also has more recoil compared to the .32 H&R Magnum. This can make it more challenging to shoot accurately, especially for shooters with less experience. The .32 H&R Magnum, on the other hand, has a milder recoil which can make it more comfortable to shoot for extended periods of time.

Ammunition Availability

One of the drawbacks of the .327 Federal Magnum is its limited availability of ammunition. While it has gained some popularity in recent years, it can still be harder to find compared to the more established .32 H&R Magnum. This can be a consideration for shooters who want a cartridge that is readily available at most gun stores.

Firearm Compatibility

Both the .32 H&R Magnum and .327 Federal Magnum can be fired from revolvers chambered for those specific cartridges. However, the .327 Federal Magnum may require a stronger frame due to its higher pressure compared to the .32 H&R Magnum. This means that not all revolvers chambered for the .32 H&R Magnum can safely fire the .327 Federal Magnum.

Use Cases

When it comes to practical use cases, the .32 H&R Magnum is often used for target shooting, small game hunting, and self-defense. Its mild recoil and adequate power make it a versatile cartridge for a variety of purposes. The .327 Federal Magnum, on the other hand, is better suited for hunting medium-sized game and self-defense where increased power is desired.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the .32 H&R Magnum and .327 Federal Magnum are both capable cartridges with their own strengths and weaknesses. The .327 Federal Magnum offers superior ballistics and power, but at the cost of increased recoil and limited ammunition availability. The .32 H&R Magnum, on the other hand, provides a more comfortable shooting experience and wider availability of ammunition. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the shooter's specific needs and preferences.