ASM Colt Clone 32-20

[Ravenwolf]

Hi all.  Been a while since I've been on the forum.  I gunsmith friend of mine is putting together a 32-20 on a Armi San Marco 357 frame, close gapped 5.5" barrel and birdhead grip.  I'm going to use it for a varmit revolver and want to regulate the sight to one load.  My question is how heavy a load can I put in this revolver and what bullet do would be recommended?  I realize it is not a Ruger but I do need a load that can handle up to a called in coyote.  Any help is most appreciated.....RW

[Blackhawk44]

I would focus on 115-120gr bullets.  If you dont' cast your own, these are going to be the most common available.  Jacketed bullets are nice and more expensive, but not really needed for pistol speeds.  How is your hearing?  If you are going to shoot rifle level loads in a handgun, let me repeat, HOW IS YOUR HEARING?  Do not try them without GOOD hearing protection.  Your first attempt will confirm these findings.  For pistol loads, about 5.5-6 grains of 4756 (not 4759) with a 100-115gr cast bullet are usually best.  I use Blue Dot in my rifles.  If trying it in a pistol, I would back up to 5.5gr and work up.  At about 6.5gr, it gets to be too hard on the ears.  BOL

[Ravenwolf]

Blackhawk 44,
Thanks for the warning about heavy louds in the 32-20.  I used to have a 30 Carbine blackhawk and it was very loud.  I always used hearing protection with it.  I'll probably try both cast and 100 grain jacketed bullets in it.  Was just looking for a base line to start reloading with and hearing from those who have used the 32-20 on varmits.....RW

[Greeenriver]

I have a factory issue ASM in 32-20 and I don't recomend this load to anyone else, but it works for me and is the only load I shoot in my 32-20's.  I use the origional load for this cal. Almost. The origional loading was 20grns of Black Powder by volume under a 115grn cast slug.  I use 1.3cc (About 20grns by volume) of American Pionier Powder under a Meister 115grn RNFP bullet and havn't found any reason to ever want a diferent load.  I havn't shot any varments with this load, but have taken a couple 'youts out to about 60yds with my 32H&R Mag using the same bullet and slightly less powder. (1cc, about 15grns by volume) in the 32Mag.  I see no reason that the 32-20 shouldn't work as well with the same load, and it's real plesant to shoot.

And to me, there's just something special about doing my shooting with the loads that were used a hundred years ago.  Back when the cartridges were designed.

But then, I still hold my pants up with suspenders insted of a belt, too, and havn't left the house in over 30 years with out a hat on.

Could be maybe I'm just a tad old fashoned.  LOL!!!!!

I don't have adjustable sights on my handguns, I adjust them with a file for one specific load, then stick with that load forever.


Greeenriver

[Greeenriver]

OPPS

DOUBLED, SORRY.

Greeenriver