The .32 Automatic (aka .32 ACP or 7.65mm Browning) was developed around 1899 by John Browning for his commercially successful auto-loading pistol. It has become widely popular around the world, including Europe and the U.S. and has been chambered in a large variety of guns….mostly small pocket pistols.

Bullet diameter is generally considered to be .311 to .312 inch; however, some foreign pistols have been measured with a barrel groove diameter of .309 inch. The data herein was developed using the Hornady .311 inch, 60-grain HP-XTP, a bullet that allows a substantial velocity increase over the traditional U.S. manufactured loads containing a 71-grain FMJ. This added velocity also allows reliable bullet expansion with maximum loads.

Considerable published load data failed to cycle the action of a Kel Tec P32 test pistol. While cross-referencing these loads in a Walther Model PP pistol, function again proved unreliable. Those loads are not included here. In the 2 ½-inch barrel of the Kel Tec, velocity had to reach above 700 fps to cycle the action, while 800 fps or faster is preferred for maximum reliability.

The powder capacity of this cartridge is so small that slight changes in charge weight made significant changes in pressures and velocities. An accurate powder scale is critical and thrown powder charges should be from a powder measure designed to accurately throw such tiny charges.

After bullets are seated to the correct overall cartridge length, bullets should be taper crimped in place, with the case mouth measuring .3365 inch.