The Winchester .32-40: A Classic Black Powder Cartridge

The .32-40 Winchester is a cartridge with deep historical roots, first appearing in 1884. It was originally developed by Ballard as a target shooting round and soon adopted by Winchester and Marlin for use in their lever-action rifles. Later, Winchester offered it in the Model 1894 lever-action rifle, which helped the cartridge gain popularity among hunters as well.

Although it was introduced in the black powder era, the .32-40 transitioned into the early smokeless powder period, bridging the gap between target shooting and hunting applications.

Cartridge Specifications

• Caliber: .32-40 Winchester (also called .32-40 Ballard)

• Bullet Diameter: ~8.2 mm (0.321 in)

• Case Length: 54 mm (2.13 in)

• Overall Length: 64.5 mm (2.54 in)

• Standard Bullet Weights: 11.7 g (180 grains), 13 g (200 grains)

• Muzzle Velocity (original black powder loads): ~430–450 m/s (1,400–1,470 fps)

• Muzzle Energy: ~1,500–1,700 Joules

Range and Accuracy

The .32-40 was highly regarded for accuracy in the late 19th century, especially in single-shot target rifles like the Ballard and Winchester High Wall.

• Effective Target Range: Up to 200–300 metres in competition.

• Hunting Range: Practical for 100–150 metres. Beyond this, the bullet’s arched trajectory limits effectiveness.

• Accuracy Reputation: Known as an exceptionally accurate cartridge in its day, especially with heavy lead bullets.

Power and Effectiveness

The .32-40 was never designed as a “power cartridge.” Instead, it was a mild-recoiling, accurate round. Hunters who used it in the early 1900s found it adequate for:

• Deer – With careful shot placement, it was effective at close to medium ranges.

• Black Bear (smaller size) – Sometimes used, though considered light for the task.

• Target Shooting – Its original and strongest role, thanks to its balance of accuracy and manageable recoil.

With muzzle energy around 1,500–1,700 J, it sits well below later cartridges like the .30-30 Winchester (which typically produces ~2,500+ J).

The .32-40 in the Modern Era

Today, the .32-40 Winchester is considered an obsolete cartridge. Factory ammunition is rarely produced and usually available only in small specialty batches. Modern shooters who own rifles chambered in .32-40 often rely on:

• Handloading – Reloading cases and casting lead bullets to recreate traditional loads.

• Forming Brass – Cases can be made from more available cartridges like .38-55 Winchester.

• Collecting – Many vintage rifles in .32-40 are prized as collector’s items.

Despite its age, the .32-40 maintains a special following among enthusiasts of antique rifles and traditional black powder shooting.

The .32-40 Winchester is a cartridge from a bygone era, designed when accuracy and manageable recoil mattered more than raw power. Once popular with both target shooters and hunters, it has since faded into obscurity, replaced by faster, more powerful smokeless powder cartridges.

Yet, for collectors, historical shooters, and those who appreciate classic lever-action or single-shot rifles, the .32-40 remains a fascinating and nostalgic round—one that speaks to the craftsmanship and innovation of the late 19th century.