Rifleman Q & A: 7.65 mm Or .32 ACP?

by
posted on December 13, 2017
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
765.jpg

Q: I have a German 7.65 mm Browning-chambered Ortgies semi-automatic pistol, and when using .32 ACP cartridges (as local dealers recommend) it tends to jam after shooting three to five rounds. The jamming appears to be at the time of ejection of a spent case. My question is: Are .32 ACP cartridges really the same as 7.65 mm Browning or is there a slight difference? If so, where can I purchase 7.65 mm ammunition, as no one locally supplies true 7.65 mm, and places like Sportsman’s Guide or Cabela’s, etc., don’t handle that exact cartridge either?

A: While the .32 ACP and 7.65 mm Browning cartridges are dimensionally identical, some early European ammunition was loaded to slightly higher pressures, which can cause a problem similar to yours. The best way to address that is at the gun. First, I would make sure it is clean and well-lubricated. Then, if the problem persists, contact Wolff Gunsprings at (800) 545-0077 or at gunsprings.com. The company is very knowledgeable and should be able to suggest a reduced-power mainspring.

—Charles E. Petty

Latest

Appendix-Carry
Appendix-Carry

Rifleman Report: Proficiency Is Key

As the end of the calendar year approaches, and new firearms and related products continue to become available, we’re reminded that, while gear is important, training safely with it while developing familiarity is just as vital.

Tips & Techniques: Applying A Linseed Oil Finish (Without Turning Your Stock Into A Sticky Mess)

Linseed oil may be the oldest wood finish known to man, with evidence of linseed oil finishes being applied to wood as far back as ancient Egypt.

I Have This Old Gun: British Garate Revolver

World War I, as it would come to be known, rather took most powers by surprise. In 1914, Great Britain, which had not entered into a formal alliance with France and Russia, was expected by some to sit on the sidelines while the others went at it.

Beretta Commemorates 50th Anniversary Of 90 Series Pistol Family

Beretta's popular 90 Series handguns, including the iconic Beretta 92, celebrates 50 years of production in 2025, and to honor the milestone, the company has released a limited-edition variant.

The Armed Citizen® Nov. 24, 2025

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

Ruger & Glenfield: Revisiting The Budget Approach To Firearms

Decades ago, no-frills firearms were offered within the sporting-goods departments of many popular retailers. Does the return of the Glenfield Firearms brand by Ruger signal a return to those days?

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.