Best .32 ACP Ammo
Compare loads for defense, target, competition & more
The .32 ACP (Automatic Colt Pistol) was designed by John Browning in 1899 for early semi-automatic pistols. Also known as 7.65mm Browning in Europe, it uses a .312" bullet in a semi-rimmed case. Factory loads push 60-73 grain bullets at 900-1,000 fps, producing 120-150 ft-lbs of muzzle energy.
The cartridge dominated pocket pistol design for decades. Classic firearms like the Walther PP/PPK, Colt 1903 Pocket Hammerless, and Beretta 81 were all chambered in .32 ACP. European police forces carried .32 ACP pistols through most of the 20th century. While larger calibers have replaced it for most purposes, the .32 ACP remains relevant for deep concealment and backup gun roles.
Modern .32 ACP pistols like the Kel-Tec P32, Beretta Tomcat, and Seecamp LWS 32 offer genuine pocket carry capability. The cartridge's mild recoil makes it manageable in guns weighing under a pound. Shooters with hand strength limitations or recoil sensitivity can handle a .32 ACP more effectively than larger calibers.
All .32 ACP Loads
Compare ballistics and prices across 5 products
| PRODUCT ↕ | GRAIN ↕ | VELOCITY ↕ | ENERGY ↕ | BC ↕ | USE CASE ↕ | BEST PRICE ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Federal American Eagle .32 ACP 71gr FMJ Ammo
71gr
• 900 fps
|
71gr | 900 | 128 | .097 | — | $0.97/rd |
|
Hornady Critical Defense .32 ACP 60gr FTX Ammo
60gr
• 1000 fps
|
60gr | 1000 | 133 | .095 | — | $1.82/rd |
|
Hornady Custom .32 ACP 60gr XTP JHP Ammo
60gr
• 1000 fps
|
60gr | 1000 | 133 | .095 | — | $1.48/rd |
|
PMC Bronze .32 ACP 71gr FMJ Ammo
71gr
• 900 fps
|
71gr | 900 | 126 | .097 | — | $0.75/rd |
|
Winchester Silvertip .32 ACP 60gr JHP Ammo
60gr
• 970 fps
|
60gr | 970 | 125 | .092 | — | $1.11/rd |
.32 ACP Trajectory Calculator
Calculate drop, velocity, and energy at any range
Advantages and Disadvantages
Pros
- Fits in the smallest semi-automatic pistols for true pocket carry
- Very mild recoil, even in lightweight guns
- Low noise and muzzle blast compared to larger calibers
- Suitable for shooters with hand strength limitations or arthritis
- Classic pistols like the Walther PPK offer proven reliability
- Modern defensive loads from Hornady and Buffalo Bore improve terminal performance
Cons
- Limited stopping power compared to 9mm or .380 ACP
- Ammunition is expensive relative to its performance level
- Fewer defensive ammunition options than mainstream calibers
- Most experts recommend larger calibers when concealment allows
- Penetration and expansion are marginal with standard loads
- Difficult to find at some retailers