.32 H&R Magnum vs. .32 S&W Long

Attribute	.32 H&R Magnum	.32 S&W Long
Caliber	.32	.32
Case Length	1.075 in (27.3 mm)	0.920 in (23.4 mm)
Overall Length	1.350 in (34.3 mm)	1.210 in (30.7 mm)
Max Pressure	21,000 psi (140 MPa)	15,000 psi (100 MPa)

History

The .32 H&R Magnum was introduced in 1983 by Harrington & Richardson and Federal Cartridge. It was designed as a more powerful alternative to the .32 S&W Long. The .32 S&W Long, on the other hand, has been around since the late 19th century and was originally designed for small pocket revolvers. Both cartridges have a long history of use in both self-defense and target shooting.

Size and Ballistics

The .32 H&R Magnum is a more powerful cartridge than the .32 S&W Long. It has a larger case capacity and is loaded to higher pressures, resulting in higher velocities and more energy. The .32 H&R Magnum typically fires bullets in the 85-100 grain range at velocities around 1,000-1,200 feet per second. The .32 S&W Long, on the other hand, fires lighter bullets in the 85-98 grain range at velocities around 700-800 feet per second.

Recoil and Shootability

Due to its higher pressures and velocities, the .32 H&R Magnum has more recoil than the .32 S&W Long. This can make it more challenging to shoot accurately, especially for shooters with less experience. The .32 S&W Long, on the other hand, has very mild recoil and is often described as pleasant to shoot. This makes it a good choice for shooters who are recoil-sensitive or who are looking for a cartridge that is easy to control.

Availability and Cost

While both the .32 H&R Magnum and .32 S&W Long are still in production, the .32 H&R Magnum can be harder to find and more expensive than the .32 S&W Long. This is due to the fact that the .32 H&R Magnum is a less popular cartridge and is not as widely used as the .32 S&W Long. However, both cartridges are still relatively affordable compared to other handgun cartridges, making them a good choice for shooters on a budget.

Accuracy and Performance

When it comes to accuracy, the .32 H&R Magnum has the edge over the .32 S&W Long. The higher velocities and energy of the .32 H&R Magnum can result in better terminal performance and greater accuracy at longer ranges. The .32 S&W Long, on the other hand, is better suited for close-range shooting and may not perform as well at longer distances. Both cartridges are capable of delivering effective shots on target, but the .32 H&R Magnum may have a slight advantage in terms of accuracy and performance.

Applications

Both the .32 H&R Magnum and .32 S&W Long are versatile cartridges that can be used for a variety of purposes. The .32 H&R Magnum is often used for self-defense, target shooting, and small game hunting. Its higher velocities and energy make it a good choice for those who need a more powerful cartridge. The .32 S&W Long, on the other hand, is better suited for target shooting, plinking, and small game hunting. Its mild recoil and low cost make it a popular choice for shooters who are looking for a fun and affordable cartridge.