Reloading for the 32-20

[Warren Sear]

I also load for the .32-20 (32 WFC). I use 92 grain round nose and 113 grain flat nose gas checked bullets, both cast from Lee molds with whatever lead alloy I have on hand. I use Unique powder. As mentioned above, the Lyman cast bullet manual is an excellent source of information.

I size my bullets to .313 inches in diameter, which does not really size them much at all, but does make it easy to lube them and apply gas checks. I never load to try to make a magnum out of it. Whenever mention is made of this caliber, it seems to never fail that someone will make mention of the old saying, "That'll plumb shoot through a man", or words to that effect. There is something about a .32-20 that makes a man start a-talkin' all folksy! In all seriousness, this caliber really does penetrate.

I have a set of Redding dies, which are outstanding, and I crimp as a final, separate step with a Lee Factory Crimp die.

I have never had any trouble with loading .32-20 ammo, although I have read all of the horror stories. Same holds true for using Unique powder!

My only gun in this caliber is a 4" Colt Police Positive revolver, made in 1911. Still tight as a drum, although according to internet lore it should be out of time, and there are no old school gun smiths left anymore who can fix it! LOL!!!

 

[Green Frog]

I know this is a little off topic for this thread, but then again maybe not so much. I have been wondering about the possibilities of a two cylinder gun, utilizing my Project 616 (in 327 Fed Mag if you came in late) and adding another rebored stainless cylinder, this one in 32-20. I have a complete cylinder assembly from a Model 648 that I bought “just in case” so it should be pretty straightforward “conversion” if it can even be called that... maybe “addition” would be a better descriptor.

What do you guys think?

Froggie

 

[J. R. WEEMS]

That's a good plan not to load too hot for an older S&W. My Hand Ejector does well with the 115 grain bullets (Lyman 311008) sized to .312" at 800 fps. They shoot to the point of aim at 25 yards. I've been using Winchester/Olin 231 with good results.

Pretty much my choice as well Make them in snake loads also.