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

Attribute	.32 H&R	.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 1896 and was originally designed for small pocket revolvers. Both cartridges have a long history of use in small handguns for self-defense and target shooting.

Ballistics

When comparing the ballistics of the .32 H&R Magnum and the .32 S&W Long, it is important to note that the .32 H&R Magnum is a more powerful cartridge. It typically fires a heavier bullet at a higher velocity than the .32 S&W Long, resulting in greater energy and stopping power. The .32 S&W Long, on the other hand, is a lower-powered cartridge that is better suited for target shooting and small game hunting.

Recoil

Due to its higher velocity and energy, the .32 H&R Magnum generally 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 lighter recoil, making it more comfortable to shoot for extended periods of time. This can be beneficial for target shooters who are looking to practice for long periods without fatigue.

Ammunition Availability

While both the .32 H&R Magnum and the .32 S&W Long are still in production, the .32 S&W Long is more widely available and can be found at most gun stores and online retailers. The .32 H&R Magnum, on the other hand, may be harder to come by and may require special ordering or searching for specific retailers that carry it. This can be a consideration for shooters who want easy access to ammunition for their firearms.

Firearm Compatibility

Both the .32 H&R Magnum and the .32 S&W Long can be fired from revolvers chambered for those cartridges. However, it is important to note that not all firearms chambered for the .32 S&W Long can safely fire the .32 H&R Magnum due to the higher pressure of the Magnum cartridge. It is always recommended to check with the manufacturer of your firearm to ensure compatibility with the specific cartridge you intend to use. This can help prevent damage to your firearm and ensure safe shooting practices.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the .32 H&R Magnum and the .32 S&W Long are both popular cartridges for small handguns, but they have distinct differences in terms of ballistics, recoil, ammunition availability, and firearm compatibility. Shooters looking for a more powerful cartridge with greater stopping power may prefer the .32 H&R Magnum, while those looking for a lighter-recoiling cartridge for target shooting may opt for the .32 S&W Long. Ultimately, the choice between these two cartridges will depend on the shooter's specific needs and preferences.