Model 3 Target 32-44

[mxbob]

I have given up on the search function and will just post my question.
I recently bought a Model 3 target in 32-44 cal. I am looking for any info on the ammo. I am thinking that I have seen a post here about one of these guns but cannot find it.
I got the gun at a small show in Cody WY recently and will post pics as soon as I can get some taken. At the same show I also found a Number 2 Old Army so came away very pleased.
Cody is a great town, my second trip with more to come. I spent a lot of quality time in the museums.
Thanks for any info
Bob Ray 1815

[opoefc]

The original .32-44 ammo. has the bullet loaded in the case flush with the nose of the bullet even with the case mouth. The case is 1 1/32 in. long and .348 in. in diameter. Two types of lead bullets were used, an 83 gr. conical bullet for target shooting and a 50 gr.round ball for gallery shooting. 10 grs. black powder for both loads. Manufacture was discontinued in 1910, so .32-44 rounds are rare and expensive. I have fired .32 S&W long rounds in a .32-44 Target, however the cases are about 320. in diameter and a few split Ed.

[mxbob]

Thanks Ed, I have also fired the 32 long, didn't split but the cases came out bulged and the accuracy wasn't much. Maybe I can find a parent case that I can make some proper ammo from. This is a very neat old gun and I would like to shoot it some.
Bob Ray 1815

[Jim Watson]

I once computed that you could make .32-44 Target out of .32 Ideal brass. Listed by Bertram.
Could you make it work with .32-20? I dunno and I don't have the book to look it up.

I read somewhere that .32-44 was a full and true .32 with .323" bullets.

[cflier]

Nice find Bob.
I knew that you were looking for a # 2 Army, and the # 3 Target is a heck of a bonus. I can't wait to see it. Maybe you can bring them to one of the WAC shows soon.
Mark

[mxbob]

Yes Mark, I will bring both to the July WAC show.
Bob