327 Federal is the best small revolver cartridge for defense??

Cal44 · #1 12-17-2017, 02:04 PM

I posted this on another forum.

Let's see if I get hit with different brickbats here.

------------------------------------------------

I'm coming to the conclusion the above is the true.

Reasons:

o The 327 Federal is a 21st century design and operates at higher pressure than other magnum revolver cartridges (e.g 357, 41, 44 Magnum). About 9000-10000 PSI higher.

o The 327 Federal is new enough that no older, weaker guns need to be considered by ammo manufacturers.

o Being smaller in diameter, most guns can hold an additional round. For example, J frames and LCRs chambered in 327 Fed hold 6 rather than 5 rounds of 38/357.

o Although 38/357 guns shoot a larger diameter bullet, it's not that much larger (.357" vs .31") and, in general 327 Federal's slightly lighter rounds move at a higher velocity and are therefore more likely to expand.

o Although high end 357 Magnum ammo can generate higher muzzle energies, the 327 Federal SD loads, with their higher pressure and higher velocity are equal to most 357 Magnum defense loads from short barrelled guns. I'd give 357 magnum an edge in SD against bears and such due to higher power, but typically reasonable 4 legged defense guns are bigger than what people want to carry concealed in town. Plus few can shoot the high end 357 magnums in a snub well.

o The 327 Federal gun can also shoot 32 H&R Magnum for people who want less recoil and noise in a SD gun, and can shoot 32 Long for practice. The existence of a lower powered option is an important advantage shared with 357 Magnums, but absent in the 9mm world.

o Ammo, at least around here, is becoming more available and I'm finding at least some 327 Federal loads available in most LGS's.

What's really needed to make 327 Fed more popular for SD is more small, light carry guns.

We could use a 6 shot 327 Federal Scandium J frame similar to the M&P 340 and 340PD.

Right now, that market it left to the LCR 327 and the SP101 3" version (just re-introduced).

The cartridge got off to a false start when it first came out mainly for lack of ammo, but it seems to be making a comeback now that both practice and good SD ammo is available.

SA1911 · #2 12-17-2017, 02:08 PM

Cal44,

It sounds like you've got yourself convinced.

I hope you enjoy yours.

Walkingwolf · #3 12-17-2017, 02:21 PM

I would think the best small revolver cartridge for SD is the gun, and cartridges on you when you need them.

steelslaver · #4 12-17-2017, 02:21 PM

I am inclined to agree with you in a light J frame 327 being better than a 38 special. The extra round, the lighter bullet giving less felt recoil, yet substantial power are all pluses over a 38 J. If they came out with an alloy framed 327 I would probably get one. Beat my 36-1 and my 640-1. My only alloy J frame is a pre model 38 Bodyguard that is to nice to carry.

I presently carry a 2 1/2" 325. A 6 shot 45acp. Light powerful , just a bit bulky and recoil is substantial.

Cal44 · #5 12-17-2017, 02:27 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SA1911

Cal44,

It sounds like you've got yourself convinced.

I hope you enjoy yours.

I wasn't really asking a question.

I was trying to start a debate.

Debating stuff is what we do here on cold Sundays in December, isn't it.

ShivasIrons · #6 12-17-2017, 02:28 PM

I would love to see S&W build the J Frame in 327 Federal again. The made the 632 for a quick minute.

Walkingwolf · #7 12-17-2017, 02:38 PM

327 Federal operating pressure at 45K might have had S&W take a second look at marketing them. CA backed off them also. The round needs a stout frame like the SP101.

Protocall_Design · #8 12-17-2017, 02:39 PM

I agree with the OP on all points. It wouldn't take anything away from those who are not so inclined, and it would be a welcome addition for those of us who are. A stainless or titanium cylinder J frame could handle that round.

H Richard · #9 12-17-2017, 02:49 PM

You ask for a J Frame lightweight for the 327. I see no reason the 431PD and 432PD (for the 32 H&R Mag) couldn't be reamed out for the 327. As far as I know, the cylinder is heat treated steel capable of handling the 327 Federal.

Wouldn't these satisfy your need? I have lots of arthritis in my hands, but can handle the 32 H&R in these alloy frame J Frames without any problem.

Dpris · #10 12-17-2017, 02:53 PM

I would dispute that OP assertion, if it were worth the effort.

Denis

SA1911 · #11 12-17-2017, 03:02 PM

Cal44,

Debating leads to knowledge...according to Socrates. We already have that knowledge. The .38 Special FBI load is that only way to go in short barreled revolvers. I'd much rather have five rounds of the FBI Load than 6 rounds of anything smaller. But neither are optimum for saving my life.

350mag · #12 12-17-2017, 03:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cal44

I posted this on another forum.

Let's see if I get hit with different brickbats here.

------------------------------------------------

I'm coming to the conclusion the above is the true.

Reasons:

o The 327 Federal is a 21st century design and operates at higher pressure than other magnum revolver cartridges (e.g 357, 41, 44 Magnum). About 9000-10000 PSI higher.

o The 327 Federal is new enough that no older, weaker guns need to be considered by ammo manufacturers.

o Being smaller in diameter, most guns can hold an additional round. For example, J frames and LCRs chambered in 327 Fed hold 6 rather than 5 rounds of 38/357.

o Although 38/357 guns shoot a larger diameter bullet, it's not that much larger (.357" vs .31") and, in general 327 Federal's slightly lighter rounds move at a higher velocity and are therefore more likely to expand.

o Although high end 357 Magnum ammo can generate higher muzzle energies, the 327 Federal SD loads, with their higher pressure and higher velocity are equal to most 357 Magnum defense loads from short barrelled guns. I'd give 357 magnum an edge in SD against bears and such due to higher power, but typically reasonable 4 legged defense guns are bigger than what people want to carry concealed in town. Plus few can shoot the high end 357 magnums in a snub well.

o The 327 Federal gun can also shoot 32 H&R Magnum for people who want less recoil and noise in a SD gun, and can shoot 32 Long for practice. The existence of a lower powered option is an important advantage shared with 357 Magnums, but absent in the 9mm world.

o Ammo, at least around here, is becoming more available and I'm finding at least some 327 Federal loads available in most LGS's.

What's really needed to make 327 Fed more popular for SD is more small, light carry guns.

We could use a 6 shot 327 Federal Scandium J frame similar to the M&P 340 and 340PD.

Right now, that market it left to the LCR 327 and the SP101 3" version (just re-introduced).

The cartridge got off to a false start when it first came out mainly for lack of ammo, but it seems to be making a comeback now that both practice and good SD ammo is available.

My ask is for a K frame 6 shot in 4,6 and 83/8” in the amazing 327. I have 3 Ruger single actions.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

S.B. · #13 12-17-2017, 03:09 PM

Since the Fed .327 doesn't have a track record yet, isn't hard to form an opinion? How many gunfights can you document this being used in? Do you remember Super Vel and their light bullet .357 magnums in K framed S&Ws? So, I'll have to wait and see if I concur on this.
Steve

Cal44 · #14 12-17-2017, 03:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by H Richard

You ask for a J Frame lightweight for the 327. I see no reason the 431PD and 432PD (for the 32 H&R Mag) couldn't be reamed out for the 327. As far as I know, the cylinder is heat treated steel capable of handling the 327 Federal.

Wouldn't these satisfy your need? I have lots of arthritis in my hands, but can handle the 32 H&R in these alloy frame J Frames without any problem.

One of my most commonly carried guns is a 431PD. I carry it with 32 H&R Magnum hollow points.

I've heard of people reaming out the cylinders of M30's and M31's to enable these 32 long guns to shoot 32 H&R Magnum.

This seems reasonable because 32 H&R Magnum is not really a magnum and isn't very high pressure.

But the 327 Federal might be called a "Super Magnum" with pressures higher than any handgun cartridge short of 454 Casull.

So I really don't want to shoot 327 Federal in any gun not factory made for it.

Cal44 · #15 12-17-2017, 03:17 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SA1911

Cal44,

Debating leads to knowledge...according to Socrates. We already have that knowledge. The .38 Special FBI load is that only way to go in short barreled revolvers. I'd much rather have five rounds of the FBI Load than 6 rounds of anything smaller. But neither are optimum for saving my life.

FWIW, there is a SWC HC round out for 327 Federal. 135 gr.

I ordered some, but haven't tried them.

I'll stick with Speer Gold Dots as those have an established record in other Calibers.

Joe4d · #16 12-17-2017, 04:26 PM

muzzle energy is a lie, formula drastically over states the effect of velocity versus mass.
Dont believe me ? take your light fast 327 to a bowling pin match. Let me see know how you do against all those slow less muzzle energy 357 magnum 180 gr loads.

steelslaver · #17 12-17-2017, 05:25 PM

I will not state that a 327 is as powerful or as much of a "stopper" as a 357. Heck I carry a 45 acp gun. I look at my 357s as plinkers. But, a 327 115 gr bullet traveling at greater velocity as a 110 gr 38 spec +P, has got to be as effective and because it has the same weight and a smaller diameter it would have a better sectional density and should penetrate a bit better. Given this a 6 shot vs a 5 shot J frame of the same power, I'll take the 6 in a small light convenient to carry package.

mike campbell · #18 12-17-2017, 06:06 PM

Speer 135 Gold Dots expand beautifully from a 2" Airweight. IMO, the ONLY thing that would be an improvement would be a bigger/heavier bullet that performed as well.

mtgianni · #19 12-17-2017, 07:08 PM

Mass vs Velocity will continue to be debated down the years. I had a 4" CA Target Patriot and could not reach stated velocities with American Eagle ammunition with the 4" gun while many guns are sold with a 2" bbl. I no longer own one. In fairness I bought it more for a trap line, kit gun, small game gun at which I think it excels. When I changed grips and got the accuracy back in my single six 32 Mag I decided it could go.

RIDE-RED 350r · #20 12-17-2017, 07:50 PM

I've been interested in the 327 mag since I first read about it a few years ago. Not because I am an expert ballisitician and think it might be the best thing in a defense pistol since ______. But because I'm a wheelgun man and love the mags. I would like to see something like a current m60 chambered in 327 for carry and as one other member stated, a new K-frame in 327 would be very cool.

I own a m36-7 and don't find the weight of it's conventional steel construction hard to carry at all, most times when I do carry it I forget it's there. Never owned or tried a lightweight J-frame though. Still think a 3" barreled m60 clone would be sweet in 327.

dr. mordo · #21 12-17-2017, 08:43 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by steelslaver

I am inclined to agree with you in a light J frame 327 being better than a 38 special. The extra round, the lighter bullet giving less felt recoil, yet substantial power are all pluses over a 38 J.

Quote:

Originally Posted by steelslaver

...But, a 327 115 gr bullet traveling at greater velocity as a 110 gr 38 spec +P, has got to be as effective and because it has the same weight and a smaller diameter it would have a better sectional density and should penetrate a bit better. Given this a 6 shot vs a 5 shot J frame of the same power, I'll take the 6 in a small light convenient to carry package.

Quote:

Originally Posted by S.B.

Since the Fed .327 doesn't have a track record yet, isn't hard to form an opinion? How many gunfights can you document this being used in? Do you remember Super Vel and their light bullet .357 magnums in K framed S&Ws? So, I'll have to wait and see if I concur on this.
Steve

I agree with the OP and the posts above - .327 is a great cartridge, and I'm pretty sure it will eventually prove the .38 SPL obsolete.

Thankfully, I can get .327 ammo locally with no issues, and I've started reloading for it as well. If anything my main complaint is the available self defense ammo isn't as hot as it could be, and you can't even get factory 100gr SD ammo anymore. I plan to work up a 100gr XTP SD load to maximize the round's potential.

That said, it's new so there is very little data to prove that opinion, and .38 will never go away because of its historical significance and close relationship to .357 magnum.

Time will tell...

steelslaver · #22 12-17-2017, 08:49 PM

Look at ballistics by the inch and you'll see that in 2" barrels, a Speer Gold Dot 115 327 is faster (1024fps) than a 110 38 Corbon DPX (814) In a 3" its 1316fps vs 963. That's a bunch especially if your running a J frame and add another round. . A 2 1/2" or 3" barrel would be the ticket for this in my opinion.

jtcarm · #23 12-17-2017, 09:41 PM

How's this for input: none of those factors mean jack till it has been proven in actual shootings.

I'm pretty sure no one has ever been killed by higher chamber pressure.

Lets see, when did I hear this before about the .38/.357 being made obsolete? Oh, yeah, .32 H&R magnum.

steelslaver · #24 12-17-2017, 10:00 PM

Nobody is saying the 38/357 will become obsolete or anything of that order. Your welcome to come shoot my J frame 357 but you have to do a minimum of 100 full house loads that I will provide you absolutely free.

But explain to me why a slightly smaller bullet at higher velocity is worse than a slightly bigger bullet of the SAME weight going slower is not going to work. The 38 +P 110 gr 38 is well proven as is the 9mm loads of the same weights

If you do not believe in higher chamber pressures and smaller lighter bullets how could you possibly support the 357 as an equal to the 44 special or 45acp. When the 357 came out with its higher chamber pressure they ruled the roost and are still effective.

I got it you don't think much of the 327 and that's fine. Use what you like, nobody here will stop you.

Cal44 · #25 12-17-2017, 10:12 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jtcarm

How's this for input: none of those factors mean jack till it has been proven in actual shootings.

The 32 S&W Long, which is a lower powered round that can be shot in a 327 Federal gun, was used as a police cartridge for decades.

The 32-20, with similar ballistics to the 327 Federal, has been used to take many game animals, and has defended many homes and ranches for decades. It was limited during it's era by having only RNL and RN flat point bullets available.

The 32 ACP, with lighter bullets, was used for years as a military and police cartridge in Europe. Usually with hotter loads (but way less powerful than 327 Federal) than current US 32 ACP offerings.

Don't get me wrong, the 38 special is a great cartridge and won't be obsolete for a long time.

And the 357 Magnum is perhaps the greatest SD revolver cartridge ever.

But I think the best place for the 357 Magnum is in full sized guns with bigger frames and 4" + barrels -- not in small guns like J frame snubs.

Joe4d · #26 12-17-2017, 10:40 PM

[QUOTE=steelslaver;139855241]I will not state that a 327 is as powerful or as much of a "stopper" as a 357. Heck I carry a 45 acp gun. I look at my 357s as plinkers. But, a 327 115 gr bullet traveling at greater velocity as a 110 gr 38 spec +P, has got to be as effective and because it has the same weight and a smaller diameter it would have a better sectional density and should penetrate a bit better. Given this a 6 shot vs a 5 shot J frame of the same power, I'll take the 6 in a small light convenient to carry package.[/QUOTE

Following that logic, you should be carrying a compact auto loader.

Zipdog · #27 12-17-2017, 10:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cal44

I posted this on another forum.

Let's see if I get hit with different brickbats here.

------------------------------------------------

I'm coming to the conclusion the above is the true.

Reasons:

o The 327 Federal is a 21st century design and operates at higher pressure than other magnum revolver cartridges (e.g 357, 41, 44 Magnum). About 9000-10000 PSI higher.

o The 327 Federal is new enough that no older, weaker guns need to be considered by ammo manufacturers.

o Being smaller in diameter, most guns can hold an additional round. For example, J frames and LCRs chambered in 327 Fed hold 6 rather than 5 rounds of 38/357.

o Although 38/357 guns shoot a larger diameter bullet, it's not that much larger (.357" vs .31") and, in general 327 Federal's slightly lighter rounds move at a higher velocity and are therefore more likely to expand.

o Although high end 357 Magnum ammo can generate higher muzzle energies, the 327 Federal SD loads, with their higher pressure and higher velocity are equal to most 357 Magnum defense loads from short barrelled guns. I'd give 357 magnum an edge in SD against bears and such due to higher power, but typically reasonable 4 legged defense guns are bigger than what people want to carry concealed in town. Plus few can shoot the high end 357 magnums in a snub well.

o The 327 Federal gun can also shoot 32 H&R Magnum for people who want less recoil and noise in a SD gun, and can shoot 32 Long for practice. The existence of a lower powered option is an important advantage shared with 357 Magnums, but absent in the 9mm world.

o Ammo, at least around here, is becoming more available and I'm finding at least some 327 Federal loads available in most LGS's.

What's really needed to make 327 Fed more popular for SD is more small, light carry guns.

We could use a 6 shot 327 Federal Scandium J frame similar to the M&P 340 and 340PD.

Right now, that market it left to the LCR 327 and the SP101 3" version (just re-introduced).

The cartridge got off to a false start when it first came out mainly for lack of ammo, but it seems to be making a comeback now that both practice and good SD ammo is available.

Kimber needed you as a consultant when deciding what to make the K6 fire. They got it all wrong and went with the puny .357 magnum. Too bad they could have sold a ton of them if they had checked with you first.

reddog81 · #28 12-17-2017, 11:14 PM

327 is intriguing however I already cast and reload for 38/357. New ammo is pretty limited in selection and costs more. Most stores wil have at most 1 type of 327 ammo and maybe 32 magnum or 32 Long.

It's obviously a powerful round and I'm glad the manufacturers are supporting it, but anyone who thinks it will overcome .357 is delusional.

Given the choice of .327 or .357 I know which one I'd choose, and I'm willing to bet most people will stick with .357.

steelslaver · #29 12-17-2017, 11:40 PM

I carry a 6 shot alloy 45 acp (a 2 1/2" 325) and have several other 45 acp and 45 colt revolvers. I DO believe in big bullets. I even have a Commander length alloy 1911. If I knew I was going to be in a gun fight a select fire Thompson would be great.

I am not trying to convince any one the 327 mag is superior to bigger bullets Hardly.

I believe that a 357 is a great round but, much better suited to K frame sized revolvers than light J frames. I have a 640-1, a 4 " 19 and a 2 1/2" K frame 357 as well as some N frame 357s. I also have several 38s. All great guns

I also have a 696 and a 396 44 specials. The 396 is a great carry gun, smaller lighter than my 45, about the same power. but only 5 rounds

But I am not so close minded that I can't see the advantage of having a light small 6 shot J frame. Easy to carry and I personally believe it would be at least as good if not a better than a 5 shot J frame 38 special. News flash lots of J frame 38s being carried every day by knowledgeable gun guys, off duty LEOs etc. Better than a 380 auto and lots of those being carried too.

Whats wrong with wanting another option??? More the merrier I say.

PS I also have some 32 S&Ws I frames a J frame as well as a K frame 16-4.

I even have a 22 Jet, I wouldn't purposely take it to a gun fight.

bigwagon · #30 12-17-2017, 11:41 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by steelslaver

Nobody is saying the 38/357 will become obsolete or anything of that order.

Quote:

Originally Posted by dr. mordo

I agree with the OP and the posts above - .327 is a great cartridge, and I'm pretty sure it will eventually prove the .38 SPL obsolete.

Well, maybe one person is. LOL

Green Frog · #31 12-18-2017, 09:35 AM

OK, I slept through this on Sunday afternoon, but today I’ll chime in with my two cents’ worth. I bought a Blackhawk 8-shooter in 327 at the same time I was having my stainless custom K-frame 327 (Project 616) built. I would like to own a Model 631 adjustable sight version with 3-4” barrel and would accept it in 327, but really think a medium frame gun is needed to “enjoy” the benefits of the “real” 32 Magnum. JMHO, YMMV.

Froggie

SuperMan · #32 12-18-2017, 10:23 AM

Like Green Frog I also had a K-frame .327 built, this one on a 6" Model 53 .22 Jet. It is much more pleaant to shoot with full loads than the Ruger 3" SP-101 or LCR I have...

That said I would love to buy a 3" adjustable sight 60-15 made in .327 instead of .357. I have one of the earlier 60-10s and it is hard to beat as a small "outdoorsman's" gun...

Bob

Green Frog · #33 12-18-2017, 03:30 PM

SuperMan, you could have an adjustable sighted J-frame in 327 FM. As Billy Joel says, "all it takes is looks and a whole lot of money." In this case, you would buy a Model 63 in 22 LR or its equivalent 22 Mag. Then you would have the barrel and cylinder rebored suitably and the hammer and firing pin converted for center fire use. See? It's easy!

I guess you could also use a Model 60-4 and buy a Model 63 barrel and cylinder to convert... that might be a little more pricy though.

Guess I'll continue to shoot 327s in bigger guns and save my I- and J-frames for more mundane 32 S&W and 38 Spl rounds.

Froggie

Walkingwolf · #34 12-18-2017, 03:42 PM

If I want uber fast light bullets, and capacity I am going with a Rock 22 TCM. I am sure at darn near rifle velocity out of a handgun it will make the 327 obsolete. (insert evil laugh)

OK I have stopped laughing now. I shoot guns with mostly slow bullets. I used the TCM as a joke, it has some impressive velocity, but a 22 lr at slower velocity will out penetrate the high velocity TCM. I want penetration, and that takes weight, I can't see shooting a 180 grain bullet from a 32 327 handgun. I guess anything is possible

I am not a power freak, I rarely carry 357, and when I want power I go with 44 mag. I believe if a round does what it is supposed to do I am satisfied. The extra round is nice, but IMO I don't believe a 327 federal at 45K compares with a FBI load at 20k. And let's not even get into +P+/38/44 at 25K which will well outperform the 327.

350mag · #35 12-18-2017, 03:49 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Green Frog

OK, I slept through this on Sunday afternoon, but today I’ll chime in with my two cents’ worth. I bought a Blackhawk 8-shooter in 327 at the same time I was having my stainless custom K-frame 327 (Project 616) built. I would like to own a Model 631 adjustable sight version with 3-4” barrel and would accept it in 327, but really think a medium frame gun is needed to “enjoy” the benefits of the “real” 32 Magnum. JMHO, YMMV.

Froggie

327 Federal is the best small revolver cartridge for defense??

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

BAM-BAM · #36 12-18-2017, 03:58 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by steelslaver

I believe that a 357 is a great round but, much better suited to K frame sized revolvers than light J frames.

But I am not so close minded that I can't see the advantage of having a light small 6 shot J frame. Easy to carry and I personally believe it would be at least as good if not a better than a 5 shot J frame 38 special. News flash lots of J frame 38s being carried every day by knowledgeable gun guys, off duty LEOs etc. Better than a 380 auto and lots of those being carried too.

Have to agree with Steelslaver...... .357 is better in a k-frame.... I have and carry a 60-10 3" ( think micro 686) with .357s.... but not often or as a primary....................

From what I read above; with good ammo availability.... a 3" 6 shot .32 magnum revolver (mini-micro 686

) would be interesting for CC and as as "kit gun"

Walkingwolf · #37 12-18-2017, 04:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cal44

Right.

And you heavy bullet, low velocity, guys should load your pockets with 5lb rocks and ditch your guns.

5 pound rock is likely to knock out an attacker, probably 1 rock stop. A lot of people have been murdered with hammers weighing less. I can't even fathom how much damage a 3 pound sledge would do on a skull. Extreme close range combat, I would take the sledge over the 327 anytime.

350mag · #38 12-18-2017, 04:10 PM

I own three now. The 8 black hawk shoots very fast with the 100 gr load. When introduced I got a 4-5/8” Single seven. Recoil is noticeable and it’s a kit gun single. I do think the K frame would be ideal for the 327.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Mister X · #39 12-18-2017, 04:12 PM

Ammunition and guns chambered in it are extremely limited. Looking over the website of various ammo manufacturers and most don't have a single offering in .327 Federal. Gun selection is just as scarce. Apparently there was an all steel J-Frame chambered for it, but it has since been discontinued. I just don't see .327 really going anywhere with .38/.357 being so established and the majority perspective being that it is not inadequate or lacking in any substantial way that justifies a switch. If someone wants something smaller in a revolver, they usually drop to a .22

BAM-BAM · #40 12-18-2017, 04:14 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Walkingwolf

5 pound rock is likely to knock out an attacker, probably 1 rock stop. A lot of people have been murdered with hammers weighing less. I can't even fathom how much damage a 3 pound sledge would do on a skull. Extreme close range combat, I would take the sledge over the 327 anytime.

well you get a lot more power out of the Sledge/hammer vs the 5lb rock due to the leverage/velocity provided by the handle....... now the optimum handle length ....... may limit concealed carry.......

The 327 may benefit from a tapered barrel...... for sticking up attacker's nose!

Footnote: IIRC: war hammers were popular against plate armor

Walkingwolf · #41 12-18-2017, 04:19 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BAM-BAM

well you get a lot more power out of the Sledge/hammer vs the 5lb rock due to the leverage/velocity provided by the handle....... now the optimum handle length ....... may limit concealed carry.......

The 327 may benefit from a tapered barrel...... for sticking up attacker's nose!

Footnote: IIRC: war hammers were popular against plate armor

Initially we killed cattle with a 22 short, then switched to a sledge to knock them unconscious. The USDA inspectors wanted inspect the brains sans 22 bullet. Eventually we went with a pneumatic impact stun gun.

peyton · #42 12-19-2017, 10:28 AM

Well, Ruger has started producing the GP100 with a 5 inch barrel in .327 magnum, sad that S&W refuses to. Ruger has kept the 327 alive.

I paid hard earn money for my 632-1 a month ago I attribute it to my stubbornness not want a dang big hole in front of the front sight, I had a new one in my hand when they first came out and I set it back down

ChiefTJS · #43 12-19-2017, 11:15 AM

Played with the .327 when it first come out, actually had a custom SP made because it was taking too long for the guns to become available and back then you had to buy factory rounds to reload because Starline didn't make brass yet. I was .32 crazy for several years but in the end the only benefit (to me) was the sixth round in a J sized gun. If you need more than five then you also need more than six.

For me I figured out that the .38/357 does everything and more than the .327 ever will at much lower pressures and with much greater component and firearm choices.

epj · #44 12-19-2017, 11:16 AM

Not got much use for J frames these days. I would have some interest in a K frame 4” or maybe 6” in 327. 7 shot I would think. Adjustable sights of course. Let’s do a shrouded ejector rod and skip the full underlug. As a purely SD round, I see some of the same issues the .357 has. Just to check out my theory, let’s get some of you guys wanting light weight short barrel models to do some testing. Set up a target in a dimly lit bedroom sized enclosure and empty your lightweight J into the target as rapidly as possible. When you can see and hear again, post a range report.

SA1911 · #45 12-19-2017, 12:26 PM

Cal44,

You're falling into the dangerous trap of rationalizing a cartridge you like into what it can never become.

Were I you, I'd learn how humans lose ability to remain a threat.

The handgun and cartridge by which all self-defense cartridges are measured is the 1911-A1 .45 ACP. That's my preferred gun for saving my life. But it's heavy although very easy to conceal. So I have had to compromise: Sig P239 .40 S&W 180 grain Fed HST Tactical rounds.

BTW, when I have carried a 1911-A1, it was loaded with 230 grain W-W white box ammo. I've never felt the least bit vulnerable.

In the very rare times I've carried a .357 Mag for self-defense, it was ALWAYS loaded with the FBI load.

That so many people have bought in to the fable of mythical .357 Mag proves the validity of the 10% tipping point: Minority Rules: Scientists Discover Tipping Point for the Spread of Ideas | News & Events

Chamber pressure neither indicates nor predicts *******.

If you're sold on the mysticism of the .327 Federal, I'm good. It's your life you're protecting. But were I you, I'd get straight with human incapacitation before making a decision.

One last point: revolvers are not wise self-defense choices. Go with tactically superior semiautos.

Joe4d · #46 12-19-2017, 12:27 PM

I dont really see the logic in arguing the merits of 5-6 shots , and power levels in snub nose revolvers in these calibers.
You have to move up to full power 357 ammo with its much much greater recoil that almost noone uses in them
Quite a few 3-4" 9mm's will surpass the ballistics of any 38, or 327 loading and many 357 magnum loads fired from snubbies.
And do it in a flatter, more streamlined package, with a better trigger and better sights . Gun same OAL as a 442 would have a 4" barrel and throw 124's at over 1200 fps,, and carry 8 or so rounds AND do it with alot less recoil.|
People that favor Jframes, (38 and 327) favor them for reasons other than capacity and power. So arguing about J frame merits based on capacity and power isnt very logical.

Beemer-mark · #47 12-19-2017, 12:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by steelslaver

I am inclined to agree with you in a light J frame 327 being better than a 38 special. The extra round, the lighter bullet giving less felt recoil, yet substantial power are all pluses over a 38 J. If they came out with an alloy framed 327 I would probably get one. Beat my 36-1 and my 640-1. My only alloy J frame is a pre model 38 Bodyguard that is to nice to carry.

I presently carry a 2 1/2" 325. A 6 shot 45acp. Light powerful , just a bit bulky and recoil is substantial.

If you think recoil is less than a 38 Special you'll be sadly mistaken. Not sure if the recoil is any different than your 45acp.

At least IMHO owning both calibers.

Mister X · #48 12-19-2017, 12:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SA1911

The handgun and cartridge by which all self-defense cartridges are measured is the 1911-A1 .45 ACP.

One last point: revolvers are not wise self-defense choices. Go with tactically superior semiautos.

Disagree, Disagree and Disagree

SA1911 · #49 12-19-2017, 02:00 PM

Hi Mister X,

I'm good.

It'd be hard to argue against a .44 Special or .45 Colt. However, they're large and heavy handguns that hold only 6 rounds and take far too long to reload another 6.

steelslaver · #50 12-19-2017, 02:45 PM

My 325 45 acp revolver is lighter than my alloy framed 1911 commander, Both are about 6 oz heavier than my 386 44 special. I am no slouch when reloading my 325 with full moons.

I am very familiar with the S&W revolver platform and would get a light 327 J frame for carry in light weight summer clothing. Would I expect the same effectiveness as my 45 or 44. No, but everything in life is a compromise. Inmost any situation I can imagine myself becoming involved it it would serve, at least better than something I decided not to carry because of size or weight.

As far as a 327 recoiling worse than my 325 acp I don't hardly think so.