Classic black-powder era cartridge popular in Schuetzen and long-range target shooting. Well-suited to cast-bullet handloading; still chambered in reproduction single-shot and lever-action rifles for cowboy action shooting.
Type: Rifle
Introduced: 1884, United States
Parent case: None
Standardization: SAAMI
Bullet diameter: 0.321" (8.15 mm)
Case length: 2.13" (54.1 mm)
Overall length: 2.59" (65.79 mm)
Max pressure: 30,000 PSI
Rim type: Rimmed
Primer: Large Rifle
Typical twist rate: 1:16
Muzzle velocity: 1440–1560 fps
Muzzle energy: 758–974 ft-lbs
Effective range: 175 yd
Common bullet weights: 165, 180 gr
Primary use: Hunting, Target
Production status: Active
Also known as: .32-40 Ballard · .32-40 Marlin · 8.1x52mmR
History: Originally a Ballard target cartridge from 1884, adopted by Winchester and Marlin for their rifles. It was one of the most popular Schuetzen match cartridges of the late 19th century. The low-pressure rimmed case is ideal for cast bullets and black powder. Factory ammunition in reduced smokeless loads is still available from Cowboy Action suppliers.
Notable firearms: Winchester Model 1894 (early), Marlin Model 1893, Various Schuetzen single-shots
Similar cartridges: .38-55 Winchester, .30-30 Winchester