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.45 Colt Ammo

.45 Colt: At a Glance

Key Characteristics
Firearm Type Revolver, Single-Action Pistol
Primer Type Large Pistol
Used For Hunting, Self-defense, Cowboy Action Shooting
Case Design Rimmed, Straight
Year Introduced 1873

.45 Colt: Pros and Cons

Pros

  • ✔ High stopping power and energy transfer
  • ✔ Versatile for both self-defense and hunting
  • ✔ Popular for Cowboy Action Shooting sports
  • ✔ Can be loaded to various power levels
  • ✔ Historical significance and nostalgia factor

Cons

  • ✘ Significant recoil, especially in lighter firearms
  • ✘ Lower capacity in revolvers compared to semi-auto pistols
  • ✘ Slower reload times with most .45 Colt firearms
  • ✘ Less readily available than more modern calibers
  • ✘ Generally more expensive than smaller calibers

.45 Colt Ammo: In Depth

The .45 Colt, also known as .45 Long Colt or simply .45 LC, is a venerable cartridge that has left an indelible mark on American firearms history. Known for its substantial stopping power and rich heritage, this caliber continues to be popular among collectors, cowboy action shooters, and hunting enthusiasts. The .45 Colt offers an impressive combination of power and accuracy, making it suitable for a range of applications from self-defense to medium game hunting.

History and Development

The .45 Colt was introduced in 1872 by Colt's Manufacturing Company for use in their Single Action Army revolver, also known as the "Peacemaker." This iconic pairing was adopted by the U.S. Army in 1873, marking the beginning of the cartridge's long and storied history.

Originally designed as a black powder cartridge, the .45 Colt was developed to be a powerful military and law enforcement round. It quickly gained a reputation for its effectiveness, becoming a favorite among cavalry units and lawmen of the American Old West. The cartridge's large bullet diameter and hefty weight contributed to its formidable stopping power, a characteristic that remains appreciated to this day.

As firearms technology progressed, the .45 Colt transitioned from black powder to smokeless powder loadings. This transition allowed for increased velocities and improved performance, while still maintaining the cartridge's legendary stopping power. Despite the introduction of more modern calibers, the .45 Colt has remained relevant due to its versatility and the nostalgia associated with its use in classic revolvers.

Complete Timeline of .45 Colt Development:

Year Event
1872 Colt's Manufacturing Company develops the .45 Colt cartridge for use in their Single Action Army revolver.
1873 The U.S. Army adopts the Colt Single Action Army revolver chambered in .45 Colt as its standard sidearm.
1880s-1890s The .45 Colt becomes widely used by lawmen and outlaws in the American Old West, earning its legendary status.
1892 Colt introduces the Model 1892 New Army revolver, designed for the .38 Long Colt, which begins to replace the .45 Colt in military service.
1909 The U.S. military officially adopts the .45 ACP cartridge, further diminishing the .45 Colt's military role.
1950s The .45 Colt experiences a resurgence in popularity among civilian shooters and collectors.
1960s-1970s Handloading becomes increasingly popular, allowing enthusiasts to develop specialized loads for the .45 Colt.
1993 The Single Action Shooting Society (SASS) is founded, sparking renewed interest in the .45 Colt for Cowboy Action Shooting.
2000s Manufacturers introduce new revolvers chambered for high-pressure .45 Colt loads, expanding its use in hunting.
2010s The .45 Colt sees continued popularity in single-action revolvers and gains traction in compact defensive revolvers.
Present The .45 Colt remains popular among enthusiasts, collectors, and competitive shooters, with ongoing development of specialized ammunition.

Modern Usage and Loadings

Today, the .45 Colt finds its niche in several shooting disciplines and applications:

  • Cowboy Action Shooting: The .45 Colt is a staple in this sport, where participants use period-correct firearms or replicas. Low-pressure loads are often used for reduced recoil and improved shooter comfort during competitions.
  • Hunting: When loaded to higher pressures, the .45 Colt is capable of taking medium-sized game. Some modern revolvers are built to handle these increased pressures, making the cartridge versatile for both target shooting and hunting.
  • Self-Defense: While not as common as more modern calibers, the .45 Colt's large bullet diameter and energy make it an effective self-defense round, particularly in compact, powerful revolvers.
  • Collecting and Historical Reenactment: Many enthusiasts appreciate the .45 Colt for its historical significance, collecting both modern and antique firearms chambered for this iconic cartridge.

Ammunition manufacturers offer a wide range of .45 Colt loads to cater to these diverse applications. From light target loads to heavy hunting rounds, shooters can find ammunition tailored to their specific needs. It's crucial, however, for shooters to be aware of their firearm's limitations and only use ammunition appropriate for their specific gun, as some modern, high-pressure loads are not safe in older or replica revolvers.

Legacy and Future

The .45 Colt's enduring popularity is a testament to its effectiveness and the deep-rooted appreciation for its historical significance. While it may not be as widespread as some modern semi-automatic pistol cartridges, it continues to hold a special place in the hearts of many shooting enthusiasts.

As firearms and ammunition technology continues to advance, the .45 Colt has seen renewed interest. Modern metallurgy and production techniques have allowed for stronger revolvers capable of handling higher pressures, breathing new life into this classic cartridge. This blend of historical charm and modern performance ensures that the .45 Colt will remain a relevant and appreciated cartridge for years to come.

.45 Colt Performance

The .45 Colt offers substantial power and versatility, making it popular for hunting, Cowboy Action Shooting, and self-defense. Here's a breakdown of its key performance characteristics:

Characteristic Performance
► Velocity 750-950 fps (250-grain bullets)
900-1,100 fps (200-grain bullets)
Varies based on load type and firearm strength
→ Trajectory More pronounced drop compared to smaller calibers
Effective for hunting and self-defense within 50 yards
⚡ Energy 400-600 ft-lbs at the muzzle (standard loads)
Up to 1,000 ft-lbs (high-pressure loads)
Provides excellent stopping power and hunting capability
↕ Recoil Moderate to heavy, depending on load and firearm
Can be managed with proper technique and firearm selection
⦿ Accuracy Capable of 2-4 inch groups at 25 yards in quality revolvers
Sufficient for hunting, self-defense, and Cowboy Action Shooting

.45 Colt: Bullet Weight vs. Muzzle Velocity

This chart shows how bullet weight affects muzzle velocity for common .45 Colt loads.

Note: Actual velocities may vary based on specific loads, barrel length, and other factors. These values are estimates for comparison purposes.

.45 Colt: Effective Range for Different Applications

This table provides estimated effective ranges for .45 Colt ammunition in various applications. Ranges are based on typical bullet weights and velocities.

Application Effective Range (yards) Notes
Self-Defense 0-25 Powerful at close range, but recoil may affect quick follow-up shots
Hunting (Medium Game) 0-75 Effective for deer-sized game with proper loads
Cowboy Action Shooting 0-50 Popular choice for this style of competition
Target Practice 0-100 Accuracy diminishes beyond 100 yards due to bullet drop
Silhouette Shooting 0-200* *With specialized loads and single-shot pistols

Note: Effective ranges can vary based on factors such as bullet selection, load power, shooter skill, wind conditions, and specific firearm characteristics. Always prioritize safety and adhere to local laws and regulations. For hunting applications, check local game laws for caliber restrictions.

.45 Colt: Barrel Length Effects on Performance

Barrel length can significantly affect .45 Colt performance. This chart illustrates the impact of different barrel lengths on velocity.

4.75" (SAA) - 800 fps
5.5" (Ruger Vaquero) - 900 fps
7.5" (Hunting) - 1000 fps
16" (Lever Action) - 1100 fps

Understanding Barrel Length Effects

Barrel length affects .45 Colt performance in several ways:

  • Longer barrels generally provide higher velocities due to more complete powder burn.
  • Shorter barrels offer better concealability and faster handling, but at the cost of velocity and sight radius.
  • Velocity increases are more pronounced in .45 Colt compared to smaller calibers, especially with heavier loads.
  • Lever-action rifles can significantly boost velocity, enhancing the cartridge's effectiveness for hunting.

The chart above visualizes how velocity increases with barrel length, with the width of each bar representing the relative velocity.

Note: Velocities are approximate and based on standard 250-grain loads. Actual velocities can vary based on specific ammunition, environmental conditions, and individual firearms. Always chronograph your specific gun/ammo combination for precise data.

Applications for .45 Colt

The .45 Colt's power and versatility make it suitable for a range of applications:

Cowboy Action Shooting
  • Authentic cartridge for Old West themed competitions
  • Low-recoil loads available for faster shooting
  • Compatible with a wide range of period-correct firearms
Hunting
  • Effective for medium game at moderate ranges
  • Powerful loads suitable for deer, black bear, and hogs
  • Versatile in both revolvers and lever-action rifles
Self-Defense
  • Powerful round with significant stopping power
  • Effective in both revolvers and lever-action carbines
  • Modern defensive loads enhance performance
Silhouette Shooting
  • Popular for long-range handgun silhouette competitions
  • Heavy bullets maintain energy at extended ranges
  • Customizable loads for optimal performance
Collection and Historical Interest
  • Significant historical value as an iconic Old West cartridge
  • Popular among collectors of vintage and replica firearms
  • Used in historical reenactments and educational demonstrations

Available Firearms

.45 Colt is available in various firearm platforms, each offering unique advantages. Here's why you might choose each platform:

Single Action Revolvers

Why choose: Single action .45 Colt revolvers offer:

  • Classic Old West styling and historical authenticity
  • Excellent for Cowboy Action Shooting
  • Simple, reliable mechanism
  • Often feature longer barrels for improved accuracy
  • Popular among collectors and enthusiasts

Double Action Revolvers

Why choose: Double action .45 Colt revolvers provide:

  • Faster follow-up shots compared to single action
  • Suitable for both self-defense and hunting
  • Often built to handle higher pressure loads
  • Available in various barrel lengths for different applications
  • Versatile for both single and double action shooting

Lever Action Rifles

Why choose: .45 Colt lever action rifles offer:

  • Increased velocity and effective range over revolvers
  • Popular for cowboy action shooting and hunting
  • Nostalgic appeal with modern performance
  • Often legal in areas with restrictions on semi-auto rifles
  • Ability to share ammunition with .45 Colt revolvers

Single Shot Pistols

Why choose: .45 Colt single shot pistols allow for:

  • Maximum accuracy potential for competition shooting
  • Ability to handle high-pressure loads safely
  • Popular for silhouette and long-range handgun shooting
  • Often feature interchangeable barrels for multiple calibers
  • Appeal to handloaders and precision shooters

Manufacturer Options

Here are some of the manufacturers offering .45 Colt firearms in various platforms:

  • Single Action Revolvers: Ruger (Vaquero), Colt (Single Action Army), Uberti (Cattleman)
  • Double Action Revolvers: Smith & Wesson (Model 25), Ruger (Redhawk), Taurus (Model 45)
  • Lever Action Rifles: Henry (Big Boy), Marlin (1894), Uberti (1873 Cattleman)
  • Single Shot Pistols: Thompson/Center (Encore), Magnum Research (BFR), Bond Arms (Derringer)

Available Ammunition

.45 Colt ammunition is available in a variety of loads, catering to its diverse applications from Cowboy Action Shooting to hunting.

Manufacturer Popular Loads Velocity Application
Federal 225gr Lead Semi-Wadcutter HP 860 fps Cowboy Action
Hornady 255gr FTX LEVERevolution 1050 fps Hunting (Lever Action)
Buffalo Bore 260gr JHP 1450 fps Hunting/Self-Defense (High Pressure)
Winchester 250gr Lead Flat Nose 750 fps Target/Practice
Magtech 200gr LFN 900 fps Cowboy Action/Target

Caliber Comparisons

To understand the .45 Colt's place in the handgun world, it's helpful to compare it to similar cartridges. Click on each comparison to see more details:

.45 Colt vs. .45 ACP ▼

.45 Colt vs. .44 Magnum ▼

.45 Colt vs. .357 Magnum ▼

Recoil Energy Comparison

Compare the estimated recoil energy of .45 Colt with other popular handgun cartridges. (Based on a 5.5" barrel, 40 oz revolver)

Note: Recoil energy can vary based on specific loads, firearm weight, and other factors. These values are estimates for comparison purposes.

Ballistic Trajectory Comparison

This chart compares the ballistic trajectory (bullet drop) of .45 Colt with other popular handgun cartridges over distance.

Note: Trajectories are calculated for a 50-yard zero. Actual results may vary based on specific loads, atmospheric conditions, and firearm characteristics.

Wind Drift Comparison

This chart compares the wind drift of .45 Colt with other popular handgun cartridges in a 10 mph crosswind.

Note: Wind drift is calculated for a 10 mph full-value crosswind. Actual results may vary based on specific loads, atmospheric conditions, and firearm characteristics.

Energy Retention Comparison

This chart compares the energy retention of .45 Colt with other popular handgun cartridges over distance.

Note: Energy values are calculated based on typical bullet weights and velocities for each cartridge. Actual results may vary based on specific loads and environmental conditions.

Estimated Service Life Comparison

This chart provides a general comparison of estimated service life for .45 Colt and similar cartridges in typical revolvers. Actual service life can vary significantly based on factors such as firing schedule, firearm quality, and maintenance.

Cartridge Estimated Service Life (Rounds)
.45 Colt
 
45,000+
.44 Magnum
 
40,000+
.357 Magnum
 
50,000+
.38 Special
 
55,000+
.45 ACP (in revolvers)
 
45,000+

Note: These are rough estimates and can vary greatly depending on usage, load data, cleaning regimen, and individual firearm characteristics. High-volume shooters may see shorter lifespans, while casual shooters might experience longer service life.

Sectional Density Comparison

Sectional density is a measure of a bullet's mass relative to its diameter. Higher sectional density generally indicates better penetration and energy retention.

Cartridge Bullet Weight (gr) Sectional Density Relative SD
.45 Colt 250 0.176
 
.45 Colt 300 0.211
 
.44 Magnum 240 0.185
 
.357 Magnum 158 0.177
 
.38 Special 158 0.177
 
.45 ACP 230 0.162
 

Note: Sectional density is calculated as (bullet weight in pounds) / (bullet diameter in inches)². Higher sectional density generally indicates better penetration, but other factors like velocity and bullet construction also play significant roles in overall performance.

Conclusion

The .45 Colt, with its rich history dating back to 1872, remains a testament to enduring cartridge design and American firearms heritage. This iconic round continues to captivate shooters with its impressive power, versatility, and nostalgic appeal.

Cowboy Action Shooting enthusiasts cherish the .45 Colt for its historical authenticity and manageable recoil in single-action revolvers. Hunters value its effectiveness on medium game, especially when loaded to higher pressures in modern firearms. For self-defense, the .45 Colt offers substantial stopping power, particularly in compact revolvers or lever-action carbines.

Despite being over 150 years old, the .45 Colt has adapted to modern shooting needs. Its popularity in various disciplines has spurred continued development in both firearms and ammunition. From traditional lead bullets for Cowboy Action Shooting to modern jacketed hollow points for hunting and self-defense, the .45 Colt showcases remarkable versatility.

While it may not match the widespread adoption of more modern cartridges, the .45 Colt's dedicated following ensures its continued relevance. Its ability to be loaded from mild cowboy loads to powerful hunting rounds in appropriate firearms demonstrates a flexibility that few other cartridges can match. As long as there are shooters who appreciate history, power, and versatility, the .45 Colt will undoubtedly maintain its esteemed place in the world of firearms.

.45 Colt: Frequently Asked Questions:

Yep. If you see a reference to “.45 Long Colt” somewhere, they’re talking about .45 Colt.

The thing is, most people agree that “.45 Long Colt” has never been a production cartridge! It’s just another name for .45 Colt that some folks used in the past. 

They are two completely different cartridges!

.45 Colt is a rimmed revolver round, whereas .45 ACP is rimless and intended for semi-auto pistols.

They don’t chamber in the same firearms (except for some revolvers that are able to shoot .45 ACP with special “moon clips”, or modified cylinders).

Ruger New Model Blackhawks and Redhawks are strong enough to handle this ammunition.

You should not use +P ammo in S&W Governor and Taurus Judge revolvers, older revolvers, and replica revolvers.

Rifles are good to go for +P.

Absolutely. Especially with +P ammunition, .45 Colt is able to deliver a ton of power through the right firearm.  Since this is a handgun round, max hunting range is about 50 yds.

While there are better (as in lighter weight and higher capacity) firearms for home defense, a big steel revolver with six .45 caliber rounds will certainly work!

Taurus’ Judge and S&W’s Governor revolvers both target the home defense market. While they are versatile in the sense that they chamber several different cartridges, they are no more effective than other revolvers for shooting .45 Colt. A Uberti or Cimarron SAA replica will work just fine!

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