Freedom Arms are producing reloading equipment for what is probably the first new cartridge of 2009.

The 224-32 FA is a .327 Federal Magnum necked down to .224. The result is a high velocity rimmed revolver cartridge suitable for varminting. It is was not rimmed it would probably be classified as what are now called PDW (Personal Defense Weapon) cartridges (small and fast pistol cartridges).

The max load is a 40 gr. Blitz King or V-Max bullet pushed out the barrel at 2270 fps, generating 457 ft/lbs of energy.

The parent cartridge, the .327 Federal Magnum, was launched last year in January.

The first gun to chamber this round is a Freedom Arms Model 97. It can hold 6 rounds and is available in 4 1/4″, 5 1/2″, 7 1/2″ and 10″ barrel lengths. Retail price: $1840.