February 1, 2008, 12:58 PM | #1 |
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32 WCF Question
I have a high wall (not a low wall) made in 1887 with barrel stamped 32 WCF
Now, I know ( or at least think) that this is 32-20. But, for the few times I shot this with 32-20, the bullets would keyhole, and accuracy was 3-4 feet group at 20 yards. Now, I've seen better barrels, but I've seen worse. That's why I'm wondering if there is a possibility that 32 WCF in 1887 might have been 32-40? Any thoughts on this? Thanks |
February 1, 2008, 01:07 PM | #2 |
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.32 WCF is indeed .32-20.
I don't know why your bullets are keyholing. Have you slugged your barrel to determine the actual bore and groove diameters? Do. |
February 1, 2008, 01:28 PM | #3 |
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Jim Watson is correct about slugging the barrel. As I understand old 32-20's were anywhere on either side of .312. I have a rifle and revolver set that is .312. I use cast bullets that are sized .314 for the rifle and .313 for the revolver. I also load the rifle at a much higher load than the pistol and do not mix them.
If your 32-20 ammo is .308 and your barrel is .312 or larger, it may well explain the keyholing. Also consider that the ammo may be loaded to pistol velocities for legal purposes, and the lower velocities will not stabilize the bullet in the rifle.
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February 1, 2008, 03:36 PM | #4 |
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I suspect that you're going to find that your barrel is .312-.315, or possibly even a bit larger.
I've seen a number of Winchesters from this time period with badly oversized barrels. Generally they worked OK, though, as the soft lead slugs would upset to grab the rifling.
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February 1, 2008, 03:52 PM | #5 |
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It's probably because the barrel is sized for heeled bullets which are the same diameter as the case mouth. You're using bullets that fit inside the case mouth.
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February 1, 2008, 05:12 PM | #6 |
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I never heard that .32 WCF was a heel bullet cartridge. Winchester got away from that about the time they went centerfire in 1873.
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February 1, 2008, 07:12 PM | #7 |
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.32-20 was never loaded with heeled bullets.
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