Quick Tip: .327 Federal Magnum vs .357 Magnum

Brownells Gun Tech™ Caleb Savant does a quick comparison of two magnum revolver cartridges: the Old School .357 Magnum and the relatively new kid on the block, the .327 Federal Magnum. The .357 Magnum throws a larger, heavier bullet at (usually) faster velocities than the .327 Magnum, BUT... you can fit an extra round of .327 Federal in the same-size cylinder, due to the cartridge's narrower diameter. That's SIX rounds of .327 in the space of a 5-shot .357 Magnum cylinder, and SEVEN rounds of .327 in the space of a 6-shot .357 cylinder. And the .327 Federal packs excellent terminal ballistics for self-defense. Another .327 advantage is 40% LESS recoil than .357 Magnum, making it an excellent round for a snub-nose personal-defense revolver. Both cartridges are very close in muzzle velocity and muzzle energy. The bullet in a typical .357 Magnum load will exit the muzzle at about 1,300 fps, while a 115 grain .327 Magnum bullet will be only about 100 fps slower. Awesome, yes? There aren't as many commercial loads available for the .327 as the .357, but there is some excellent personal defense ammo for it. And here's an ammo versatility bonus: a .327 Federal Magnum revolver can also shoot .32 ACP, .32 Smith & Wesson, .32 S&W Long, AND .32 H&R Magnum (also an excellent self-defense round)! Looking for more Quick Tips? Our channel is loaded with 'em - and lots more besides! Subscribe NOW...