A friend just asked me if the US Army ever used a hand gun chambered in 32-20. I am completely unaware of such a beast being issued. Was it perhaps allowed as private purchase/carry? Thanks

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Always bet on stupidity.

A friend just asked me if the US Army ever used a hand gun chambered in 32-20. I am completely unaware of such a beast being issued. Was it perhaps allowed as private purchase/carry? Thanks

__________________
Always bet on stupidity.

Deacon,

I think the OSS and some of the Allies might have used the .32 S&W (Harrington & Richardson and also Ivor Johnson)... but I don't know about the .32-20's.

US Military also used .32 ACP for the Colt semi-autos.

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Linda
SWCA #1965, SWHF #245

Not very likely. He has possibly heard of the Colt "Army Special" which was available in .32-20 among others and assumed it had a military connection.

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Gunsmithing since 1961

If any were used, they were privately owned, and not neccesarily authorized. But many kinds of gun were carried in the past by those whose commanders didn't care, or who were allowed options.

T-Star

Kevin

I'm not aware of any military contracts for the 32-20's. There were
a couple of Navy contracts for 1899's and 1902's, and a 1899 Army contract,
but those were all .38's .

It seems possible that the Army may have ordered one or more guns for
testing purposes, but to my knowledge, nothing like that has ever turned
up.

If you have a serial number, perhaps we can check it out.

Later, Mike Priwer

From what my fellow mod at surplusrifle said, the guy thought it was, etc. etc.But thanks for everyone's help and time.

__________________
Always bet on stupidity.