The .32 rimfire cartridge, while not a mainstay in modern shooting circles, holds a fascinating place in firearms history. Its availability today is a question many collectors and enthusiasts ponder. The short answer is: yes, but it's rare and often expensive. Let's delve into the specifics.
The History of .32 Rimfire: A Legacy of Early Firearms
The .32 rimfire, in its various iterations (like the .32 Short, .32 Long, and .32 Extra Long), was popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It powered many early revolvers and pistols, becoming a staple in self-defense and sporting contexts. Its relatively small size and manageable recoil made it appealing to a wide range of shooters.
However, as centerfire cartridges gained popularity due to their superior performance and reliability, the .32 rimfire began to fade from the mainstream. This decline in popularity directly impacts its current availability.
Finding .32 Rimfire Ammo: A Collector's Pursuit
Locating .32 rimfire ammunition today requires patience and persistence. It's not readily found on the shelves of your average sporting goods store. Your best bet lies in the following avenues:
1. Specialized Gun Shops and Dealers:
Some gun shops specializing in antique firearms or ammunition may stock a limited supply. Calling ahead is crucial, as inventory changes frequently. These shops often cater to collectors and enthusiasts, so be prepared for higher prices than you would find for more common calibers.
2. Online Retailers:
Online marketplaces and auction sites occasionally feature .32 rimfire ammunition. However, exercise caution; verify the seller's reputation and ensure secure payment methods to avoid scams. Be prepared for competitive bidding and potentially high shipping costs, especially for smaller quantities.
3. Gun Shows and Collector Events:
Gun shows and collector events provide excellent opportunities to connect with knowledgeable sellers who may possess rare or hard-to-find cartridges. Networking with other collectors can also yield valuable leads.
4. Private Sales:
Word-of-mouth and connections within the shooting community can sometimes lead to private sales. This route requires trust and careful vetting of the seller.
The Challenges of Sourcing .32 Rimfire:
The scarcity of .32 rimfire ammunition stems from several factors:
- Decreased Demand: The limited demand for the cartridge makes it less economically viable for manufacturers to produce it in large quantities.
- Production Costs: Manufacturing specialized ammunition is more expensive than producing higher-volume calibers.
- Storage and Shelf Life: Older stocks of .32 rimfire may have deteriorated over time, impacting their reliability and safety.
Is it Worth the Search?
Whether the quest for .32 rimfire ammunition is worthwhile depends entirely on your individual circumstances. For collectors with antique firearms chambered in this caliber, acquiring the ammunition is essential to maintaining and enjoying their historical pieces. However, for those seeking a readily available and cost-effective cartridge, other calibers might be a better choice.
Conclusion: A Niche but Persistent Cartridge
While .32 rimfire ammunition is rare, it's not entirely extinct. With patience, persistence, and a bit of luck, finding this intriguing piece of firearms history is possible. But be prepared for a search that may require exploring unconventional avenues and accepting higher costs. Remember always to prioritize safety and purchase only from reputable sources.
