.32 ACP is interesting.
This was the world standard ‘self defense’ cartridge from 1903 to maybe 1939, the vast majority of auto pistols sold to the public were chambered in .32 ACP. It was the European standard police cartridge, in nearly all countries.
Little known fact, Gavrilo Princip kicked off WWI with two shots from a .32 ACP, both fatal. He used an FN Browning 1910.
Lots of very nice, small flat pistols with 6-10 round magazines were made for it.
Even military use was typical. The French Army depended on it, or on their very similar low powered revolver cartridge. The German Army too used vast numbers of them, in spite of all those Parabellum Lugers.
“I also believe that far too many people carry too much gun.”
Probably true.
Have S&W .357 (circa 1953) and a .357 Marlin. I love being able to shoot the same ammo through both. That being said I am building a 1911 because no self respecting collection is complete without a 1911. So, I’ll do some side by side when done to see which is better because I live by the Gun Collectors golden rule; “the best gun for you is the one you like best”. :)