Colt's entry-level pocket revolver cartridge of the 1870s–1880s. Chambered in the Colt Model 1877 'Rainmaker' — the diminutive companion to the Lightning — and various pocket revolvers of the era. Extremely mild by any standard.
Type: Pistol
Introduced: 1875, United States
Parent case: None
Standardization: SAAMI
Bullet diameter: 0.313" (7.95 mm)
Case length: 0.65" (16.51 mm)
Overall length: 0.91" (23.11 mm)
Max pressure: 11,000 PSI
Rim type: Rimmed
Primer: Small Pistol
Typical twist rate: 1:18.75
Muzzle velocity: 745–800 fps
Muzzle energy: 99–117 ft-lbs
Effective range: 15 yd
Common bullet weights: 80, 82 gr
Primary use: Self-Defense
Production status: Obsolete
Also known as: .32 SC · .32 Short
History: Introduced alongside the .38 Short Colt in 1875 for the smallest frame Colt double-action revolvers. The .32 Short Colt was positioned as a pocket and ladies' defense cartridge — light recoil, compact revolvers, minimal noise. Its energy levels were barely above those of the .22 rimfire family it notionally replaced. The .32 Long Colt offered meaningfully better performance and rendered the Short…
Notable firearms: Colt Model 1877 'Rainmaker', Various pocket revolvers 1875–1895
Similar cartridges: .32 Long Colt, .32 S&W, .38 Short Colt