The **CCI Ammunition Blazer .32 ACP 71 Grain Full Metal Jacket Aluminum Centerfire Pistol Ammunition
3503 17% Off**: First Use to Final Thoughts
The CCI Ammunition Blazer .32 ACP 71 Grain Full Metal Jacket Aluminum Centerfire Pistol Ammunition
3503 17% Off is a budget-friendly option for shooters looking to practice or plink with their .32 ACP handguns. Manufactured by CCI Ammunition, this ammunition features a 71-grain full metal jacket bullet and a heat-treated aluminum case, designed for affordability and reliable performance. The current discounted price makes it even more attractive for high-volume shooting, but does the performance justify the cost savings?
My interest in this ammunition arose from a need for an affordable practice round for my vintage Walther PPK/S in .32 ACP. Finding quality .32 ACP ammunition that doesn’t break the bank can be challenging, and the CCI Blazer line has a reputation for being a decent, economical choice. The aluminum casing was a bit of a curiosity, as I’m used to brass, but I was willing to give it a try if it meant more range time without emptying my wallet.
Unboxing the ammunition revealed a standard, no-frills packaging. The rounds themselves looked clean and consistent, although the aluminum casing did feel noticeably lighter than brass-cased ammunition. I was initially a bit skeptical about the aluminum casing’s reliability, but I reserved judgment until I could get to the range.
Compared to other .32 ACP ammunition, such as Fiocchi or Winchester white box, the CCI Blazer stands out primarily due to its price point and aluminum casing. I typically use Fiocchi for self-defense due to its consistent performance and brass casing for reloading purposes, but CCI Blazer‘s price made it an appealing option for practice. I passed on Winchester due to past experiences with inconsistent powder loads.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The price was right, and the ammunition appeared well-made, but the proof would be in the shooting. I was excited to see how it performed in my Walther and whether the aluminum casing would cause any issues.
Real-World Testing: Putting **CCI Ammunition Blazer .32 ACP 71 Grain Full Metal Jacket Aluminum Centerfire Pistol Ammunition
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First Use Experience
I tested the CCI Ammunition Blazer .32 ACP 71 Grain Full Metal Jacket Aluminum Centerfire Pistol Ammunition at an indoor shooting range. The range provided a controlled environment to assess the ammunition’s performance and reliability. I fired approximately 200 rounds through my Walther PPK/S.
The ammunition performed reasonably well in dry conditions, although I did notice slightly more muzzle flash compared to brass-cased ammunition. Loading the magazines was smooth, and the rounds chambered without any issues. Ejection was generally reliable, though I experienced a few instances of the spent casings sticking slightly in the chamber.
The first-time use revealed one notable issue: increased fouling. The aluminum casings seemed to deposit more residue in the pistol’s action compared to brass, requiring more frequent cleaning during the range session. Also, the aluminum cases are not reloadable, therefore there are no components to reuse from your shooting practice.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of occasional use, I estimate that I have fired approximately 500 rounds of CCI Blazer .32 ACP ammunition. The ammunition continues to function adequately for range practice, but the reliability issues remain consistent. The increased fouling is still a concern, necessitating thorough cleaning after each use.
Durability-wise, the ammunition itself shows no signs of degradation, as expected with centerfire ammunition. However, the aluminum casings are not reloadable, which is a significant drawback for reloaders like myself. This limits its long-term value proposition compared to brass-cased options.
In comparison to my previous experiences with brass-cased ammunition, the CCI Blazer falls short in terms of cleanliness and reloadability. While the price is attractive, the increased cleaning and non-reloadable nature make it less desirable for long-term use and dedicated practice. This ammunition is best for short range outings with no option of reusing components.
Breaking Down the Features of **CCI Ammunition Blazer .32 ACP 71 Grain Full Metal Jacket Aluminum Centerfire Pistol Ammunition
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Specifications
- Caliber: .32 ACP – This is a common, albeit somewhat underpowered, handgun cartridge often found in compact pistols.
- Bullet Weight: 71 grain – A standard weight for .32 ACP, offering a balance of velocity and energy.
- Bullet Type: Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) – Designed for smooth feeding and penetration, ideal for target practice.
- Cartridge Case Material: Aluminum – This is the standout feature, offering cost savings but impacting reloadability and potentially increasing fouling.
- Muzzle Velocity: 900 ft/s – Provides adequate velocity for reliable cycling in most .32 ACP pistols.
- Muzzle Energy: 128 ft-lbs – Relatively low, reflecting the .32 ACP’s inherent limitations in stopping power.
- Primer Style: Centerfire – A reliable and consistent ignition system.
- Number of Rounds: 50 – A standard box size for handgun ammunition.
These specifications dictate the ammunition’s primary use as an affordable practice round. The aluminum casing is the key differentiator, impacting both cost and performance. The low muzzle energy makes it less suitable for self-defense purposes, where stopping power is crucial.
Performance & Functionality
The CCI Ammunition Blazer .32 ACP 71 Grain Full Metal Jacket Aluminum Centerfire Pistol Ammunition performs adequately for target practice. Accuracy is acceptable at typical self-defense distances (7-10 yards), and the ammunition cycles reliably in most .32 ACP pistols.
The main weakness is the increased fouling caused by the aluminum casings. This requires more frequent cleaning and can potentially impact long-term reliability of the firearm. The non-reloadable nature is another drawback, particularly for those who reload their ammunition.
It meets the basic expectations for an affordable practice round but does not exceed them. The lower price point comes with compromises in cleanliness and reloadability.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is straightforward and functional, prioritizing affordability over aesthetics. The aluminum casing is noticeably lighter than brass, which can affect the balance of the firearm slightly.
The ammunition is user-friendly, requiring no special handling or preparation. The only consideration is the need for more frequent cleaning due to the aluminum casing.
Durability & Maintenance
As centerfire ammunition, the rounds themselves are expected to have a long shelf life when stored properly. However, the aluminum casings are not designed for reloading and should be discarded after firing.
Maintenance primarily involves thorough cleaning of the firearm after use to remove the increased fouling caused by the aluminum casings. Regular cleaning is essential to prevent malfunctions and ensure the long-term reliability of the firearm.
Accessories and Customization Options
No accessories come with the ammunition itself. Customization options are limited, as the aluminum casings are not reloadable, preventing the use of custom handloads. The primary “customization” involves choosing a firearm that functions reliably with aluminum-cased ammunition.
Pros and Cons of **CCI Ammunition Blazer .32 ACP 71 Grain Full Metal Jacket Aluminum Centerfire Pistol Ammunition
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Pros
- Affordable price point, making it ideal for high-volume practice.
- Functions reliably in most .32 ACP pistols.
- Consistent primer ignition, ensuring reliable firing.
- Suitable for target practice and plinking at the range.
- Readily available at most major retailers.
Cons
- Increased fouling compared to brass-cased ammunition.
- Non-reloadable aluminum casings.
- Lower muzzle energy compared to some premium .32 ACP rounds.
Who Should Buy **CCI Ammunition Blazer .32 ACP 71 Grain Full Metal Jacket Aluminum Centerfire Pistol Ammunition
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CCI Ammunition Blazer .32 ACP 71 Grain Full Metal Jacket Aluminum Centerfire Pistol Ammunition is perfect for recreational shooters looking for an affordable way to practice with their .32 ACP pistols. It is also suitable for those who are not concerned about reloading their ammunition.
Those who reload their ammunition or prioritize cleanliness should skip this product. Additionally, individuals seeking maximum stopping power for self-defense should opt for premium, brass-cased ammunition with higher muzzle energy. A must-have accessory is a high-quality cleaning kit to address the increased fouling.
Conclusion on **CCI Ammunition Blazer .32 ACP 71 Grain Full Metal Jacket Aluminum Centerfire Pistol Ammunition
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The CCI Ammunition Blazer .32 ACP 71 Grain Full Metal Jacket Aluminum Centerfire Pistol Ammunition offers a budget-friendly solution for .32 ACP shooters seeking affordable practice rounds. While the aluminum casings offer cost savings, they also introduce compromises in cleanliness and reloadability.
The value proposition is justified for those who prioritize affordability over all other factors. However, reloaders and those seeking maximum performance should consider alternative options.
I would personally recommend it with reservations. It’s a decent option for casual range practice, but be prepared for more frequent cleaning and the inability to reload the spent casings. If your primary goal is affordable range time and you understand the limitations, then CCI Blazer .32 ACP might be a good fit. Grab a box (or a case) and hit the range – just remember to bring your cleaning kit!
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