{"id":198278,"date":"2024-08-18T14:56:02","date_gmt":"2024-08-18T19:56:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/?p=198278"},"modified":"2026-10-17T14:56:20","modified_gmt":"2026-10-17T19:56:20","slug":"what-is-the-327-federal-magnum-good-for","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/what-is-the-327-federal-magnum-good-for\/","title":{"rendered":".327 Federal Magnum vs .38 Special vs .357: What Is It Good For?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The .327 Federal Magnum is good for small, light carry revolvers that need one more round and less snap. It fits six shots in a cylinder that holds five .38 Special or .357 Magnum rounds. Federal&#8217;s 104 grain HST load is listed at 1,500 fps and 520 ft-lb, more than double a 110 grain .38 Special +P defense load and close to a 158 grain .357. It also shoots .32 H&amp;R Magnum and .32 S&amp;W Long, and from a carbine it can take deer at sensible ranges.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2748-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"327 Federal Magnum with Ruger SP101 revolver on light wood\" class=\"wp-image-198300\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2748-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2748-400x300.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2748-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2748-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2748.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-yoast-seo-estimated-reading-time yoast-reading-time__wrapper\"><span class=\"yoast-reading-time__icon\"><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\" data-icon=\"clock\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" style=\"display:inline-block;vertical-align:-0.1em\" role=\"img\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\"><path stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\" stroke-width=\"2\" d=\"M12 8v4l3 3m6-3a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"yoast-reading-time__spacer\" style=\"display:inline-block;width:1em\"><\/span><span class=\"yoast-reading-time__descriptive-text\">Estimated reading time: <\/span><span class=\"yoast-reading-time__reading-time\">8<\/span><span class=\"yoast-reading-time__time-unit\"> minutes<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Why would you want a concealed carry revolver chambered in 327 Federal Magnum when there are plenty of EDC revolvers chambered in the old standbys, 38 Special and 357 Magnum? The answer comes down to versatility, capacity, terminal performance, and availability. Did I mention less felt recoil?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-yoast-seo-table-of-contents yoast-table-of-contents\"><h2>Table of contents<\/h2><ul><li><a href=\"#h-327-federal-vs-38-special-vs-357-magnum-at-a-glance\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"what-is-the-327-federal-magnum-good-for\" title=\".327 Federal Magnum vs .38 Special vs .357: What Is It Good For?\" data-level=\"2\">.327 Federal vs .38 Special vs .357 Magnum at a Glance<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-should-you-pick-327-over-38-special-or-357\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"what-is-the-327-federal-magnum-good-for\" title=\".327 Federal Magnum vs .38 Special vs .357: What Is It Good For?\" data-level=\"2\">Should You Pick .327 Over .38 Special or .357?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-faq\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"what-is-the-327-federal-magnum-good-for\" title=\".327 Federal Magnum vs .38 Special vs .357: What Is It Good For?\" data-level=\"2\">FAQ<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#h-can-you-shoot-38-special-in-a-327-federal-magnum\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"what-is-the-327-federal-magnum-good-for\" title=\".327 Federal Magnum vs .38 Special vs .357: What Is It Good For?\" data-level=\"3\">Can you shoot .38 Special in a .327 Federal Magnum?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-is-327-federal-magnum-more-powerful-than-38-special\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"what-is-the-327-federal-magnum-good-for\" title=\".327 Federal Magnum vs .38 Special vs .357: What Is It Good For?\" data-level=\"3\">Is .327 Federal Magnum more powerful than .38 Special?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-is-327-federal-as-powerful-as-357-magnum\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"what-is-the-327-federal-magnum-good-for\" title=\".327 Federal Magnum vs .38 Special vs .357: What Is It Good For?\" data-level=\"3\">Is .327 Federal as powerful as .357 Magnum?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-327-federal-vs-38-special-vs-357-magnum-at-a-glance\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">.327 Federal vs .38 Special vs .357 Magnum at a Glance<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table><thead><tr><th><\/th><th>.327 Federal Magnum<\/th><th>.38 Special +P<\/th><th>.357 Magnum<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Example defense load<\/td><td>Federal Personal Defense 104 gr HST<\/td><td>Hornady Critical Defense 110 gr FTX<\/td><td>Federal Personal Defense 158 gr Hydra-Shok<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Listed velocity \/ energy<\/td><td>1,500 fps \/ 520 ft-lb<\/td><td>About 957 fps \/ 224 ft-lb<\/td><td>1,240 fps \/ 539 ft-lb<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Capacity in a small frame (SP101, LCR)<\/td><td>6<\/td><td>5<\/td><td>5<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Felt recoil<\/td><td>Far less sting than .357 in small guns<\/td><td>Mildest of the three<\/td><td>Sharp in light revolvers<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Can also fire<\/td><td>.32 H&amp;R Magnum, .32 S&amp;W Long<\/td><td>.38 Special only<\/td><td>.38 Special<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Ammo on the shelf<\/td><td>Thinner selection<\/td><td>Everywhere<\/td><td>Everywhere<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Factory load figures as published by the makers and quoted in this article.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-should-you-pick-327-over-38-special-or-357\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Should You Pick .327 Over .38 Special or .357?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Pick .327 Federal<\/strong> if you carry a small revolver and want six shots with near-.357 energy and less recoil, or if you like one round that works in a revolver and a lever gun.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Pick .38 Special<\/strong> if you want the softest shooting carry gun and ammo you can find anywhere.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Pick .357 Magnum<\/strong> if you want the widest choice of guns and loads, and you can handle the recoil in the frame size you carry.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here is the rub. The .327 fills a smart niche, but the ammo shelf is thinner than .38 or .357, so stock up when you find the load your gun likes. Our <a href=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/357-buster-ruger-sp101-327-fed-mag\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"what-is-the-327-federal-magnum-good-for\" title=\".327 Federal Magnum vs .38 Special vs .357: What Is It Good For?\">Ruger SP101 .327 review<\/a> found recoil much easier than .357 in a 29.5 ounce gun, and our <a href=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/henry-327-carbine-review\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"what-is-the-327-federal-magnum-good-for\" title=\".327 Federal Magnum vs .38 Special vs .357: What Is It Good For?\">Henry .327 carbine review<\/a> covers the rifle half of the pairing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-327-federal-magnum-versatility\">327 Federal Magnum Versatility<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Let&#8217;s talk about versatility. The 327 Fed Mag allows you to shoot a variety of loads, from 32 S&amp;W Long and .32 H&amp;R Magnum (remember that round?) to 327 Fed Mag. The .32 round followed the same path as other revolver calibers as power was needed. The 38 Special was created by lengthening the 38 Long Colt case and stuffing more powder into it. The 38 Special was lengthened and stuffed with even more powder to create the 357 Magnum. You see case length does matter when it comes to power. The 327 Federal Magnum followed a similar route.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"717\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2743-1024x717.jpg\" alt=\"32 S&amp;W Long, 32 H&amp;R Magnum, and 327 Federal Magnum\" class=\"wp-image-198301\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2743-1024x717.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2743-400x280.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2743-150x105.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2743-768x538.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2743.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">From left to right are 32 S&amp;W Long, 32 H&amp;R Magnum, and 327 Federal Magnum. The increased case length provides additional space for powder.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-32-caliber-food-chain\">32 Caliber Food Chain<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The 32 S&amp;W Long provided the starting point for the 32 H&amp;R Magnum which was introduced in 1984 when Harrington &amp; Richardson (H&amp;R) partnered with Federal. They lengthened the 32 S&amp;W Long case, stuffed more powder into it then christened it the 32 H&amp;R Magnum. This caliber offers low recoil with energy levels similar to a 38 Special. The 32 caliber power party really didn&#8217;t start rolling until 2008 when Federal increased the case length another 1\/8th of an inch and debuted the 327 Federal Magnum touting similar ballistics as the 357 Magnum.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2744-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"Hornady Critical Defense with a 80-gr. FTX bullet or Federal American Eagle with a 100-gr. SP\" class=\"wp-image-198303\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2744-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2744-400x300.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2744-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2744-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2744.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Loads like Hornady Critical Defense with an 80-gr. FTX bullet or Federal American Eagle with a 100-gr. SP are designed for excellent terminal performance in defense situations.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-more-round-capacity-with-the-327-federal-magnum\">More Round Capacity With The 327 Federal Magnum<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is where the rubber meets the road so to speak. The 327 Fed Mag is for lightweight, compact revolvers, and due to the diameter of 32-caliber bullets, these revolvers can hold 6 rounds compared to 5 rounds in 38 Special or 357 Magnum. More capacity in the same size revolver is a good thing. So by now, you&#8217;re thinking what&#8217;s the trade-off?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2756-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"Revolver with 6 rounds chambered\" class=\"wp-image-198304\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2756-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2756-400x300.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2756-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2756-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2756.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">In the same size revolver, the 327 Federal Magnum offers more round capacity than the 38 Special or 357 Magnum.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-powerful-is-the-327-fed-mag\">How Powerful Is The 327 Fed Mag?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The 327 Fed Mag fired from short barrel revolvers offers excellent ballistics. I&#8217;ve used the load in snub-nose wheelguns and have a <a href=\"https:\/\/ruger.com\/products\/sp101\/specSheets\/5784.html\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"what-is-the-327-federal-magnum-good-for\" title=\".327 Federal Magnum vs .38 Special vs .357: What Is It Good For?\">Ruger SP101<\/a> with a 3-inch barrel chambered in 327 Fed Mag. The SP101 series are stoutly built revolvers in 327 Fed Mag holds 6 rounds in lieu of 5 rounds in 38 Special and 357 Magnum. One of the reasons the 327 Federal Magnum can ecplice the 38 Special +p and offer similar ballistics as the 357 Magnum is the fact the 327 is loaded to a very high pressure, 45,000 psi. The 357 Magnum is loaded to 35,000 psi.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2745-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"Federal American Eagle 100-gr. soft point in the 327 Federal Magnum\" class=\"wp-image-198311\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2745-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2745-400x300.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2745-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2745-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2745.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Federal American Eagle loads a 100-gr. soft point in the 327 Federal Magnum that has a muzzle velocity of 1,435 fps and 451 ft-lb.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-327-fed-mag-vs-38-special-p\">327 Fed Mag vs 38 Special +P<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Take, for instance, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hornady.com\/ammunition\/handgun\/38-special-p-110-gr-ftx-critical-defense#!\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"what-is-the-327-federal-magnum-good-for\" title=\".327 Federal Magnum vs .38 Special vs .357: What Is It Good For?\">Hornady Critical Defense 38 Special +P loaded with a 110-grain FTX bullet<\/a>. This load has a velocity of about 957 fps and 224 ft-lb. of energy. Compare that to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.federalpremium.com\/handgun\/american-eagle\/11-AE327.html\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"what-is-the-327-federal-magnum-good-for\" title=\".327 Federal Magnum vs .38 Special vs .357: What Is It Good For?\">Federal American Eagle 327 Federal Magnum rounds loaded with a 100-grain SP bullet<\/a>. This has a muzzle velocity of 1,435 fps and 451 ft-lb of energy. That&#8217;s 478 fps more speed and 227 ft-lb more energy. Data doesn&#8217;t lie. Terminal performance with the 327 Fed Mag approaches 357 Magnum territory, especially depending on the bullet weight coming out of the 357 Magnum.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2746-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"Hornady Critical Defense 80-gr. FTX bullet in 327 Federal Magnum has a muzzle velocity of 1,475 fps and 386 ft-lb of energy\" class=\"wp-image-198312\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2746-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2746-400x300.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2746-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2746-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2746.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Hornady Critical Defense loads an 80-gr. FTX bullet in 327 Federal Magnum with a muzzle velocity of 1,475 fps and 386 ft-lb of energy.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-327-fed-mag-vs-357-magnum\">327 Fed Mag vs 357 Magnum<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Let&#8217;s compare defense load data between the 357 Magnum and the 327 Federal Magnum. Federal Personal Defense loaded with a 158-grain Hydra-Shok bullet has a velocity of 1,240 fps and 539 ft-lbs of energy in 357 Magnum. Federal&#8217;s Personal Defense 104-grain HST bullet load in 327 Federal Magnum has a muzzle speed of 1,500 fps and 520 ft-lb. That&#8217;s a bit less than the 357 Magnum but darn close. Penetration with the 327 Federal Magnum in 10-percent gelatin ranges from 14 to 16 inches and bullets like Federal Hydra-Shok JHP and Speer Gold Dot offer excellent expansion. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The 327 Federal Magnum does it with less felt recoil. If you have ever fired a S&amp;W J-frame in 357 Magnum, you know the type of stinging recoil it produces. I&#8217;m not saying the 327 Federal Magnum is a soft shooter. It does put a lot less hurt in our hand than a 357 Magnum.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2747-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"3 revolver bullets on wood table\" class=\"wp-image-198308\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2747-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2747-400x300.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2747-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2747-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2747.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">From left to right: Hornady Critical Defense 327 Federal Magnum, Hornady Critical Defense 38 Special, and Federal 357 Magnum. What the 327 lacks in diameter it makes up for in speed and penetration.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-327-federal-magnum-ammo-availability\">327 Federal Magnum Ammo Availability<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Federal offers the 327 in a variety of personal defense loads and hunting loads. Smaller niche ammo manufacturers like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.buffalobore.com\/index.php?l=product_detail&amp;p=285\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"what-is-the-327-federal-magnum-good-for\" title=\".327 Federal Magnum vs .38 Special vs .357: What Is It Good For?\">Buffalo Bore<\/a> offer hopped-up velocity and heavier bullets like a 130-grain Hard Cast Keith style bullet that&#8217;s loaded for bear. Underwood loads a 95-grain Lehigh Xtreme Defense bullet that rockets out of the barrel at 1,500 fps. The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.speer.com\/ammunition\/gold_dot\/gold_dot_handgun_personal_protection\/19-23913GD.html\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"what-is-the-327-federal-magnum-good-for\" title=\".327 Federal Magnum vs .38 Special vs .357: What Is It Good For?\">100-grain Gold Dot from Speer<\/a> screams out of the barrel at 1,600 fps.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"570\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_0502-1024x570.jpg\" alt=\"327 Federal Magnum can also fire 32 H&amp;R Magnum and 32 S&amp;W Long ammo\" class=\"wp-image-198281\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_0502-1024x570.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_0502-400x223.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_0502-150x84.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_0502-768x428.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_0502.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Guns chambered in 327 Federal Magnum can also fire 32 H&amp;R Magnum and 32 S&amp;W Long ammo, making it a versatile caliber.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The 327 Federal Magnum also makes a nice option for deer-sized game. Federal loads a 127-grain bonded hollow point bullet that generated 1,650 fps out of a 20-inch barrel. It is a straight-wall cartridge so is legal in in Ohio, Indiana, southern Michigan, and other areas with similar hunting regulations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-guns-chambered-in-327-federal-magnum\">Guns Chambered In 327 Federal Magnum<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Small, compact lightweight revolvers like the <a href=\"https:\/\/ruger.com\/products\/lcr\/specSheets\/5452.html\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"what-is-the-327-federal-magnum-good-for\" title=\".327 Federal Magnum vs .38 Special vs .357: What Is It Good For?\">Ruger LCR<\/a> and LCRx are a near-perfect paring with the 327 caliber offering a lightweight, easy-to-conceal weapon with a 6-round capacity. The heavier SP101 by Ruger is also an excellent choice in 327 Fed Mag. Ruger also chambered their larger frame GP100 and stuff 7 rounds into the cylinder. <a href=\"https:\/\/ruger.com\/products\/newModelSingleSixSingleSeven\/models.html\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"what-is-the-327-federal-magnum-good-for\" title=\".327 Federal Magnum vs .38 Special vs .357: What Is It Good For?\">Ruger&#8217;s single-action Single Seven series<\/a> is also offered in the caliber. Taurus also offers the caliber in 2-inch barrel Model 327. The newer Taurus 327 Defender TORO features a Holosun red dot optic to make the 327 round even more surgical.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>READ MORE: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/rossi-rp63-review-meet-your-new-edc-revolver\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"what-is-the-327-federal-magnum-good-for\" title=\".327 Federal Magnum vs .38 Special vs .357: What Is It Good For?\">Rossi RP63 Review: Meet Your New EDC Revolver<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2758-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"Ruger SP101 revolver in 327 Fed Mag\" class=\"wp-image-198306\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2758-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2758-400x300.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2758-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2758-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2758.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Ruger SP101 revolver is chunky and helps absorb the milder recoil of the 327 Fed Mag.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is only one rifle manufacturer currently making long guns in 327 Federal Magnum and it is a good one. Henry offers their <a href=\"https:\/\/www.henryusa.com\/rifles\/henry-big-boy-steel\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"what-is-the-327-federal-magnum-good-for\" title=\".327 Federal Magnum vs .38 Special vs .357: What Is It Good For?\">Big Boy lever action rifles<\/a> in the caliber. It is never a bad idea to have a revolver and rifle share the same ammo.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-why-the-327-federal-magnum\">Why The 327 Federal Magnum?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The popularity of the 38 Special and 357 Magnum will always overshadow the 327 Federal Magnum, and that&#8217;s ok. The 327 Federal Magnum fills a space in defense and hunting calibers where serious velocity and energy is balanced with less recoil and the versatility to fire a lot of other 32-caliber cartridges.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2750-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"327 Federal Magnum in small compact revolver\" class=\"wp-image-198310\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2750-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2750-400x300.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2750-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2750-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2750.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The 327 Federal Magnum was designed to be used in small compact revolvers.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-faq\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">FAQ<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-can-you-shoot-38-special-in-a-327-federal-magnum\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can you shoot .38 Special in a .327 Federal Magnum?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No. A .327 fires .32 caliber cartridges: .327 Federal Magnum, .32 H&amp;R Magnum and .32 S&amp;W Long. It will not chamber .38 Special.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-is-327-federal-magnum-more-powerful-than-38-special\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Is .327 Federal Magnum more powerful than .38 Special?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes. In the factory loads above, the .327 carries more than twice the energy of a .38 Special +P defense load.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-is-327-federal-as-powerful-as-357-magnum\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Is .327 Federal as powerful as .357 Magnum?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Close, not equal. The 104 grain .327 HST is listed at 520 ft-lb against 539 ft-lb for a 158 grain .357 load, with less recoil.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Related reading: <a href=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/best-32-magnum-revolvers\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"what-is-the-327-federal-magnum-good-for\" title=\".327 Federal Magnum vs .38 Special vs .357: What Is It Good For?\">best .32 Magnum revolvers<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/32-hr-magnum-vs-38-special-for-concealed-carry\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"what-is-the-327-federal-magnum-good-for\" title=\".327 Federal Magnum vs .38 Special vs .357: What Is It Good For?\">.32 H&amp;R Magnum vs .38 Special for concealed carry<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/point-of-impact-why-38-special-is-different-than-357-magnum\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"what-is-the-327-federal-magnum-good-for\" title=\".327 Federal Magnum vs .38 Special vs .357: What Is It Good For?\">why .38 Special is different from .357 Magnum<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/search?keyword=327+Federal+Magnum\" campaign=\"what-is-the-327-federal-magnum-good-for\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\">&#x1f6d2; Check current .327 Federal Magnum revolver listings on GunsAmerica<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The .327 Federal Magnum is good for small, light carry revolvers that need one more round and less snap. It fits six shots in a cylinder that holds five .38 Special or .357 Magnum rounds. Federal&#8217;s 104 grain HST load is listed at 1,500 fps and 520 ft-lb, more than double a 110 grain .38 [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":65,"featured_media":198310,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_specdata_upc":"","_specdata_placement":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[109,4055,42],"tags":[663,299,4162,102,697,4164,3689],"featured":[],"hunt365":[],"class_list":["post-198278","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-gear-reviews","category-other-gear-reviews","category-revolvers","tag-327-federal-magnum","tag-ammo-2","tag-compact-revolver","tag-feature-articles","tag-federal","tag-gahome","tag-headline"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v28.7 (Yoast SEO v28.8) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>327 Federal Magnum vs 38 Special vs 357: What It&#039;s Good For<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\".327 Federal Magnum vs .38 Special vs .357: factory load speed and energy, six shots where a .38 holds five, recoil, and the guns that chamber it.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/what-is-the-327-federal-magnum-good-for\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\".327 Federal Magnum vs .38 Special vs .357: What Is It Good For?\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"The .327 Federal Magnum is good for small, light carry revolvers that need one more round and less snap. It fits six shots in a cylinder that holds five\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/what-is-the-327-federal-magnum-good-for\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Gun Reviews and News | GunsAmerica.com\/Digest\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/gunsamerica\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2024-08-18T19:56:02+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-10-17T19:56:20+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2750.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1200\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"900\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Robert Sadowski\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" 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Sadowski is an American writer and journalist. He has written about firearms and 2A issues for decades, and has trained with some of the country\u2019s finest firearm instructors in handguns, rifles\\\/carbines, shotguns and long-range shooting. He has also had the opportunity to interview numerous individuals deeply involved in protecting our 2nd Amendment. He a is a frequent contributor to numerous gun-enthusiast publications, a few of which include: \u2022 TheArmorylife.com \u2022 TheTruthAboutGuns.com \u2022 GunsAmerica.com \u2022 GunBroker.com \u2022 Gun-Tests.com \u2022 Shooting Illustrated \u2022 SHOT Business \u2022 Gun Digest Sadowski is also the author of numerous gun books, including: \\\"9MM \u2014 Guide to America\u2019s Most Popular Caliber\\\" and \\\"Book Of Glock,\\\" both of which were #1 new releases on Amazon. He also wrote the popular DIY gun book series: Shooter\u2019s Bible Guide to Firearms Assembly, Disassembly, and Cleaning Volume 1 and Volume 2. Other gun books authored by Sadowski include \\\"50 Guns That Changed the World,\\\" and edited \\\"The M16A1 Rifle: Operation and Preventive Maintenance\\\"originally published by the U.S. Department of the Army. He also edits the annual \\\"Gun Trader's Guide\\\" to firearm values. Sadowski is also the Treasurer\\\/Secretary of the GLOCK Collectors Association, a non-profit organization with the mission to educate and preserve: Educate the public on the models, variations, and commemoratives built by GLOCK, as well as provide members with information on GLOCK serial numbers, importation, and other facts unique to GLOCK pistols.\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/gunsamerica.com\\\/digest\\\/author\\\/robertsadowski\\\/\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO Premium plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"327 Federal Magnum vs 38 Special vs 357: What It's Good For","description":".327 Federal Magnum vs .38 Special vs .357: factory load speed and energy, six shots where a .38 holds five, recoil, and the guns that chamber it.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/what-is-the-327-federal-magnum-good-for\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":".327 Federal Magnum vs .38 Special vs .357: What Is It Good For?","og_description":"The .327 Federal Magnum is good for small, light carry revolvers that need one more round and less snap. 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Sadowski is an American writer and journalist. He has written about firearms and 2A issues for decades, and has trained with some of the country\u2019s finest firearm instructors in handguns, rifles\/carbines, shotguns and long-range shooting. He has also had the opportunity to interview numerous individuals deeply involved in protecting our 2nd Amendment. He a is a frequent contributor to numerous gun-enthusiast publications, a few of which include: \u2022 TheArmorylife.com \u2022 TheTruthAboutGuns.com \u2022 GunsAmerica.com \u2022 GunBroker.com \u2022 Gun-Tests.com \u2022 Shooting Illustrated \u2022 SHOT Business \u2022 Gun Digest Sadowski is also the author of numerous gun books, including: \"9MM \u2014 Guide to America\u2019s Most Popular Caliber\" and \"Book Of Glock,\" both of which were #1 new releases on Amazon. He also wrote the popular DIY gun book series: Shooter\u2019s Bible Guide to Firearms Assembly, Disassembly, and Cleaning Volume 1 and Volume 2. Other gun books authored by Sadowski include \"50 Guns That Changed the World,\" and edited \"The M16A1 Rifle: Operation and Preventive Maintenance\"originally published by the U.S. Department of the Army. He also edits the annual \"Gun Trader's Guide\" to firearm values. Sadowski is also the Treasurer\/Secretary of the GLOCK Collectors Association, a non-profit organization with the mission to educate and preserve: Educate the public on the models, variations, and commemoratives built by GLOCK, as well as provide members with information on GLOCK serial numbers, importation, and other facts unique to GLOCK pistols.","url":"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/author\/robertsadowski\/"}]}},"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/IMG_2750-150x113.jpg","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/198278","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/65"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=198278"}],"version-history":[{"count":12,"href":"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/198278\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":258907,"href":"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/198278\/revisions\/258907"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/198310"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=198278"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=198278"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=198278"},{"taxonomy":"featured","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/featured?post=198278"},{"taxonomy":"hunt365","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/hunt365?post=198278"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}