A Need for Improved Performance
The late 19th and early 20th centuries were periods of rapid change, not only in technology but also in the understanding of crime and the tools used to combat it. The existing .32 Long Colt cartridge, while reasonably popular, was beginning to reveal certain shortcomings in real-world encounters. Its ballistic performance, while adequate in many situations, sometimes lacked the decisive stopping power necessary in confrontations with armed criminals. Police officers and civilians alike were often left wanting a cartridge with greater effectiveness.
A Different Path
The need for an enhanced .32 caliber round became evident. While other manufacturers looked for improvements to the existing design or adopted the new .32 S&W Long, Colt, a prominent name in firearms, chose a different path. Colt’s engineers decided that a flat-nosed bullet design would provide enhanced tissue disruption and thus, superior stopping power. This ultimately led to the creation of the 32 Colt New Police cartridge. The new cartridge was designed to be more effective than the original .32 Long Colt, offering a greater impact and a higher likelihood of incapacitating a threat.
The Ballistics Behind the Design
The core of the 32 Colt New Police’s effectiveness lay in its design and the careful selection of its components. The engineers prioritized a flat-nosed bullet. This design was intended to flatten upon impact with a target, transferring more of its kinetic energy and creating a wider wound channel. The bullet weight, typically around 98 grains, was optimized for the balance between penetration and expansion. When fired from the revolvers of the time, such as the Colt Police Positive, the round offered a notable improvement in impact force.
Beyond the Round: Manufacturing Variations
Several manufacturers produced different loadings for the 32 Colt New Police cartridge over the years. These variations included slightly different bullet weights and powder charges, which resulted in small differences in velocity and energy. These subtle alterations allowed manufacturers to tailor their ammunition to the particular needs of specific markets and individual users. Despite these variances, the flat-nosed design and the overall intent to improve stopping power remained consistent across all versions.
Popularity, Use and Subsequent Decline
The 32 Colt New Police gained considerable popularity among law enforcement agencies and civilians during its heyday. Its compact size and moderate recoil made it manageable for a wide range of shooters, and its improved terminal ballistics provided a degree of confidence that the older .32 Long Colt couldn’t always guarantee. However, as technology advanced, and larger caliber handguns gained prominence, the 32 Colt New Police slowly began to wane in popularity. The rise of the .38 Special, with its superior ballistic performance and broader availability, contributed to its decline. Newer calibers, such as the 9mm Luger, also offered higher capacities and modern designs.
Understanding the Cartridge: Specifications in Detail
The 32 Colt New Police cartridge featured specific design characteristics that set it apart. The casing length and diameter were engineered for compatibility with the revolvers designed for the round. The rim was designed for reliable extraction and easy loading. The bullet, as mentioned earlier, was the defining feature – a flat-nosed projectile. This profile was key to the cartridge’s performance. The shape was designed to maximize the transfer of energy and create a larger wound cavity upon impact. The bullet’s weight was balanced to find the sweet spot between penetration and expansion, making it an effective choice in the types of firearms used at the time.
Firearm Compatability: The Revolvers that Supported the Cartridge
Several models of firearms were chambered for the 32 Colt New Police cartridge. Perhaps the most famous are the revolvers produced by Colt, the company that, in partnership with manufacturers, conceived the cartridge. The Colt Police Positive series was a primary platform. These revolvers, known for their robust construction and reliable performance, were popular choices for both law enforcement and civilian self-defense. Other models, such as the Colt Banker’s Special, were also chambered in this caliber. These firearms offered a balance of power, accuracy, and ease of use.
The Spread: Beyond Colt’s Influence
Beyond Colt, other manufacturers produced firearms chambered for the 32 Colt New Police, expanding its reach. The firearms were widely distributed, and the ammunition became readily available.
The Cartridge in Action: Applications in Real Life
The 32 Colt New Police served in several roles. Law enforcement agencies, needing to equip officers with reliable sidearms, adopted the cartridge and the revolvers chambered for it. The round was considered a step up from its predecessors and was welcomed by many police officers. Beyond law enforcement, the 32 Colt New Police found a place in civilian self-defense, offering a manageable yet potentially effective option for those seeking personal protection.
Comparing the Landscape: Cartridge Contrasts
To fully understand the 32 Colt New Police, it’s important to compare it to the cartridges of its time. The .32 S&W Long, its close relative, had a similar caliber but utilized a round-nosed bullet. While the .32 S&W Long was considered less powerful than the 32 Colt New Police, it was cheaper to produce. This made it a cheaper alternative to the flat-nosed bullet design. The .38 Special, in contrast, boasted a larger case and more powerful ammunition. It quickly became the law enforcement standard.
The Current Market: Finding Ammunition Today
The modern era has brought a reduced availability of the 32 Colt New Police cartridge. However, it is still possible to find ammunition, both factory-loaded and the materials for those who wish to reload. Some manufacturers still produce it, catering to collectors, enthusiasts, and those who still own firearms chambered for the cartridge. The fact that this ammunition continues to be manufactured is a testament to the enduring legacy of this interesting round.
The Reloading Option
For the home-reloaders, ammunition can be produced. The flat-nosed bullets are usually the easiest to find. Reloading allows shooters to tailor the performance of the 32 Colt New Police to their specific needs and preferences, helping to keep these historical firearms in operation.
Collectors’ Corner: The Value of a Legend
For collectors of antique firearms, the 32 Colt New Police presents a unique appeal. Firearms chambered for this cartridge are highly sought after, especially those in good condition. Factors that influence the value include the condition of the firearm, its rarity, and any historical significance it may possess. A well-preserved Colt Police Positive or a rare variation chambered in 32 Colt New Police can be a valuable asset.
Collecting Ammunition
The flat-nosed round is also a collector’s item. Because of its unique nature, ammunition, particularly vintage examples, is valued by collectors. This highlights the intrinsic value of this intriguing cartridge.
Protecting Your Treasures: Tips for Collectors
When purchasing a firearm chambered in 32 Colt New Police, it’s vital to thoroughly inspect its condition. Pay close attention to the bore, the mechanics of the action, and the overall finish of the firearm. Proper storage is also essential. Clean and lubricate the firearm regularly. Protect the finish from corrosion by storing it in a climate-controlled environment. Documenting the history of your firearm, including any known provenance or unusual features, will enhance its value and appeal.
Conclusion: A Lasting Impact
The 32 Colt New Police, though perhaps overshadowed by some of its contemporaries and later generations, played a pivotal role in the evolution of handgun ammunition. Its innovative flat-nosed bullet design, improved stopping power, and association with reliable firearms, like the Colt Police Positive, solidified its place in history. From its use by law enforcement to its adoption by civilians seeking personal protection, the 32 Colt New Police made a contribution to the firearms world.
The round’s legacy continues to resonate with firearm enthusiasts and collectors. The fact that ammunition remains available and that firearms chambered for the 32 Colt New Police continue to be cherished is a testament to its enduring significance. As the story of this cartridge unfolds, its value as a symbol of innovation and a reminder of the past will become increasingly clear. It’s a reminder that even seemingly small improvements in ammunition design can have a significant impact on safety, security, and firearm history.
Resources
- Books on Firearms History
- Websites of reputable firearms organizations
- Historical archives and museums
- Online forums for firearms enthusiasts
- Manufacturers’ Websites
