Curious on this

[AlMatt]

I’ve been guiding a smaller-framed shooter in their quest for a comfortable handgun. They love revolvers but the .38 caliber is a tad overwhelming.

Are there any lighter centerfire calibers still in production that fall between .22 and .38?

 

[Magus]

327. If I remember it will fire 9 calibers.
AI Overview


The .327 Federal Magnum is a powerful, high-pressure revolver cartridge offering near .357 Magnum performance with less recoil, allowing for an extra round in smaller revolvers, and offering versatility by also firing .32 H&R Mag, .32 Long, and .32 S&W ammo. It's known for flat trajectories, good terminal performance with modern bullets, but also significant muzzle blast and recoil in small guns, making it a niche but respected choice for self-defense and small game, available in revolvers from Ruger, Taurus, and lever-action rifles from Henry.


Key Characteristics

• • Performance:
    Delivers power comparable to a .357 Magnum, but in a smaller diameter, often fitting six rounds where a .357 might only hold five.
  • Versatility:
    A major advantage is its ability to safely fire less powerful .32 H&R Magnum, .32 Long, and .32 S&W cartridges, making it great for practice.
  • Recoil & Blast:
    Produces noticeable recoil and significant muzzle blast, especially in lightweight, short-barrel revolvers, which some find intense.
  • Pressure:
    A high-pressure round (around 45,000 psi), making it a "super magnum" relative to the .32 H&R Magnum.
  • Applications:
    Effective for self-defense (with appropriate ammo like HST or Gold Dot) and small game/varmint hunting.

Common Firearms

• • Ruger: SP101, LCR, Blackhawk (in larger frames).
  • Taurus: Taurus 327.
  • Henry Repeating Arms: Lever-action rifles.

Pros & Cons

• • Pros:
    More capacity in small revolvers, versatility with other .32 ammo, effective power, good for flat shooting.
  • Cons:
    Limited factory gun options, can have harsh recoil/blast in small guns, potentially less common ammo.

• https://ruger.com/products/sp101/specSheets/5719.html
  
  

 

[sheepdawg]

Have you tried 38 wadcutters? They are traditionally light loads but some old school gun folks swear by them for carry.

 

[Brucer41]

Also, can go with something like the Taurus .380 ACP UL Revolver. There is a whole new breed of 380 ammo and is nothing to sneeze at. This is a revolver and made for smaller hands and good for lesser recoil and weight.