rhm0351, number check...

A 200gr bullet at 820 fps produces 299 ft-lbs of energy. Not earth-shattering, but respectable.

And if you're getting 271 ft-lbs out of your .32 ACP with a 37gr bullet, then your muzzle velocity is just north of 1815 fps. I'd say that .32 is a keeper!

And 20nickles, I believe the max bullet weight is in deference to the gun's light weight. Heavier bullets are more likely to be pulled from their cases by sharp recoil, possibly tying up the gun. Sort of like a very expensive inertial bullet puller...