32 Short Colt loads

brewmaster2 · Posted: Sat Jan 24, 2009 4:02 pm Post subject: 32 Short Colt loads

I have inhereted an Iver Johnson 5-shot, center break pistol. It is in a 32 short colt caliber. I also have several boxes of both loaded and empty brass. I would like to know some loads that I can try. All the info I have says it is a obsolete caliber. Also would like some ideas on the 50+ year old ammo, destroy or keep. I reload on a regular basis using RCBS equipmenet. My dad used the gun for gophers in the yard. Would be fun to shoot it again. Very Happy

Pumpkinslinger · Posted: Sat Jan 24, 2009 4:14 pm Post subject: Re: 32 Short Colt loads

From an NRA Handloading book (1981):

.32 Short Colt
MAX pressure should not exceed 14,900 CUP

0.310-.312" 80 grain cast round nose
1.9 grains of Bullseye for 810 ft/sec at 8,000 CUP OR 7.7 grains FFFg black powder
Small pistol primer
OAL = 1.050"
Max case length = 0.650"
Trim-to length = 0.645"

I'll throw in all the usual disclaimers!!

I have a little more history if you want it.

brewmaster2 · Posted: Sat Jan 24, 2009 4:17 pm Post subject: Re: 32 Short Colt loads

Hey thanks a lot, that is grea information.

PaulS · Posted: Sun Jan 25, 2009 3:43 am Post subject: Re: 32 Short Colt loads

Have that pistol checked over by a competent gunsmith. Some of them are loose enough to flop open when fired and others just have a hard time keeping the bullets on a 2 x 2 foot paper at 25 yards.
If it checks out then shoot safe loads and enjoy it.

whittling · Posted: Sun Jan 25, 2009 4:23 am Post subject: Re: 32 Short Colt loads

Use a low power blackpowder load and have fun.

brewmaster2 · Posted: Sun Jan 25, 2009 10:10 am Post subject: Re: 32 Short Colt loads

Thank you all for the time and information. I will have the pistol checked as the mechanical tolersnces leave a lot to be desired, sloppy at best. Now the question is the old shells I have. They are 80 gr cast, but the brass is still in good shape. I can use my puller and clean the cases, reload or just use it.. old ammo is a guess as to what it is.

Pumpkinslinger · Posted: Sun Jan 25, 2009 2:14 pm Post subject: Re: 32 Short Colt loads

I've fired WW2 ammo (.38 Special) before so that stuff MIGHT be OK.