Also known as: 32 acp, 32 Auto, .32 Auto, 32 Auto (ACP), 32acp, 32 Caliber
The .32 Automatic Colt Pistol is often called the .32 Automatic. It’s a centerfire pistol cartridge designed by John Browning in 1899. It is sometimes called the 7.65mm Browning. Many countries quickly chose this cartridge as the top choice for government agent usage. In fact, it has been used in more handguns than any other cartridge in history to date. Within the first decade after its release, Fabrique Nationale released 500,000 guns that were chambered to work with the 32 ACP.
This cartridge has a lot of historic significance. It is most commonly known as the cartridge used by Adolf Hitler when he committed suicide by shooting himself in his right temple. While modern takes on the 32 ACP use heavier projectiles or expanding bullets, the overall design of this cartridge is light and compact. It has been a top choice of global military personnel for over 100 years.
It is rarely used for hunting and is mostly chosen for human targets at close ranges. However, it is the most common caliber used for “humane killing” by veterinary professionals that still use firearms in some parts of the world to put down diseased horses and cattle. The 32 ACP is still very popular in the United States today and is often used for concealed carry pistols.