.32 S&W vs. .32 S&W Long

Attribute	.32 S&W	.32 S&W Long
Caliber	.312 in (7.9 mm)	.312 in (7.9 mm)
Case length	.61 in (15.5 mm)	.91 in (23 mm)
Overall length	.91 in (23 mm)	1.20 in (30 mm)
Velocity	700-800 ft/s (210-240 m/s)	700-800 ft/s (210-240 m/s)
Energy	65-100 ft·lbf (88-136 J)	100-120 ft·lbf (140-160 J)

Introduction

When it comes to choosing a handgun cartridge, there are many options available on the market. Two popular choices for shooters are the .32 S&W and the .32 S&W Long. While these cartridges may seem similar at first glance, there are some key differences between them that shooters should be aware of before making a decision. In this article, we will compare the attributes of .32 S&W and .32 S&W Long to help you determine which one is right for you.

History

The .32 S&W cartridge was introduced in 1878 by Smith & Wesson. It was designed as a low-powered cartridge for pocket revolvers. The .32 S&W Long, on the other hand, was introduced in 1896 as an improvement over the original .32 S&W. It featured a longer case and a slightly higher velocity, making it a more powerful option for shooters.

Size and Dimensions

One of the main differences between .32 S&W and .32 S&W Long is their size and dimensions. The .32 S&W has a case length of 0.61 inches, while the .32 S&W Long has a case length of 0.92 inches. This difference in case length results in a slight increase in overall cartridge length for the .32 S&W Long. Additionally, the .32 S&W Long has a slightly larger bullet diameter of .312 inches compared to the .32 S&W's .3125 inches.

Ballistics

When it comes to ballistics, the .32 S&W Long has a slight advantage over the .32 S&W. The .32 S&W Long typically has a higher velocity and energy compared to the .32 S&W. This results in better terminal performance and stopping power for the .32 S&W Long. However, both cartridges are considered low-powered and are best suited for short-range shooting.

Recoil

Due to its lower velocity and energy, the .32 S&W generally has less recoil compared to the .32 S&W Long. This makes the .32 S&W a good choice for shooters who are sensitive to recoil or who prefer a more comfortable shooting experience. On the other hand, the .32 S&W Long may have slightly more recoil due to its higher velocity and energy, but it is still considered mild compared to larger caliber cartridges.

Accuracy

When it comes to accuracy, both the .32 S&W and .32 S&W Long are capable of delivering good performance. However, the longer case length and higher velocity of the .32 S&W Long may result in slightly better accuracy at longer ranges compared to the .32 S&W. Shooters looking for precision shooting may prefer the .32 S&W Long for its improved accuracy potential.

Availability and Cost

Both the .32 S&W and .32 S&W Long are relatively easy to find at most gun stores and online retailers. However, the .32 S&W Long may be slightly more expensive than the .32 S&W due to its larger case size and higher performance. Shooters should consider their budget and the cost of ammunition when choosing between these two cartridges.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the .32 S&W and .32 S&W Long are both viable options for shooters looking for a low-powered handgun cartridge. The .32 S&W Long offers slightly better ballistics and accuracy compared to the .32 S&W, but it may come at a higher cost. Shooters should consider their specific needs and preferences when choosing between these two cartridges to ensure they make the right decision for their shooting needs.