Lever-action hunting cartridge developed as a slightly larger-bore companion to .30-30 Winchester. Designed for hunters who preferred cast lead bullets and hand-loading in the Winchester Model 94.
Type: Rifle
Introduced: 1899, United States
Parent case: .38-55 Winchester
Standardization: SAAMI
Bullet diameter: 0.321" (8.15 mm)
Case length: 2.04" (51.82 mm)
Overall length: 2.565" (65.15 mm)
Max pressure: 42,000 PSI
Rim type: Rimmed
Primer: Large Rifle
Typical twist rate: 1:16
Muzzle velocity: 2283–2410 fps
Muzzle energy: 1968–2128 ft-lbs
Effective range: 250 yd
Common bullet weights: 165, 170 gr
Primary use: Hunting
Production status: Active
Also known as: .32 Win Special · .32 WS
History: Winchester introduced the .32 Special in 1899 specifically for the Model 94 lever action. The slightly larger bore (compared to .30-30) was marketed as being more suitable for cast lead bullets — allowing hunters to reload with simple equipment. Modern ballistics show minimal performance difference from .30-30 with factory ammunition. Still produced by major manufacturers and chambered in the…
Notable firearms: Winchester Model 94, Marlin Model 336
Similar cartridges: .30-30 Winchester, .35 Remington, .30 Remington AR