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The .45 ACP (Automatic Colt Pistol) is an iconic handgun cartridge developed by John Browning in 1904. Known for its stopping power, reliability, and historical significance, the .45 ACP remains a popular choice for self-defense, military, and law enforcement applications. It is also widely used in competitive shooting and recreational plinking.

45 ACP Historical Significance

The .45 ACP was designed to address the need for a more powerful sidearm cartridge after the U.S. military's experience in the Philippine-American War. It became the standard-issue cartridge for the U.S. military from 1911 until the adoption of the 9mm in 1985. Its legacy continues to influence modern firearms and ammunition design.

Key Specifications

• Caliber:.45 ACP (11.43x23mm)
• Bullet Diameter: 0.451 in (11.45 mm)
• Case Length: 0.898 in (22.8 mm)
• Overall Length: 1.260 in (32.0 mm)
• Typical Bullet Weight: 185-230 grains (most common)
• Muzzle Velocity: 830-1,000 ft/s (250-300 m/s)
• Muzzle Energy: 350-500 ft-lbs

Common Uses

• Self-Defense: Renowned for its stopping power and effectiveness in close-quarters combat.
• Military & Law Enforcement: Historically used by the U.S. military in the M1911 pistol and Thompson submachine gun.
• Competitive Shooting: Popular in USPSA, IDPA, and other shooting sports.
• Recreational Shooting: A favorite among enthusiasts for its manageable recoil and historical appeal.

Types of .45 ACP Ammunition

Full Metal Jacket (FMJ)

• Ideal for target practice and training.
• Affordable and widely available.
• Example: Federal American Eagle 230-grain FMJ.

Hollow Point (HP)

• Designed for self-defense and law enforcement.
• Expands upon impact for maximum energy transfer and stopping power.
• Example: Hornady Critical Defense 185-grain FTX.

Jacketed Hollow Point (JHP)

• Enhanced expansion and penetration for defensive use.
• Example: Speer Gold Dot 230-grain JHP.

Soft Point (SP)

• A balance between penetration and expansion.
• Suitable for hunting small to medium game.
• Example: Remington Core-Lokt 185-grain SP.

Frangible

• Designed to disintegrate upon impact, reducing over-penetration.
• Ideal for training and close-quarters shooting.
• Example: G2 Research RIP 92-grain frangible.

+P (High Pressure)

• Increased velocity and energy for enhanced performance.
• Use only in firearms rated for +P ammunition.
• Example: Buffalo Bore 230-grain +P JHP.

Popular Brands of 45 ACP Ammo

Federal, Hornady, Speer, Remington, Winchester, Sig Sauer, CCI (Blazer Brass).

Ballistic Performance

• Effective Range: 50-75 meters (optimal for close to medium-range engagements).
• Recoil: Moderate to heavy, depending on bullet weight and load.
• Stopping Power: Excellent, making it a top choice for self-defense.

Advantages

• Proven stopping power and effectiveness.
• Wide variety of ammunition types for different applications.
• Compatible with a wide range of firearms, including iconic models like the M1911.

Disadvantages

• Lower magazine capacity compared to smaller calibers like 9mm.
• Heavier recoil may be challenging for some shooters.

Compatible Firearms

• M1911
• Glock 21
• Smith & Wesson M&P45
• Heckler & Koch USP45
• Sig Sauer P220
• Springfield XD(M) .45
• Thompson Submachine Gun (Tommy Gun)

Shop a wide selection of premium .45 ACP ammo, including FMJ for training and hollow points for personal defense. Find bulk deals, brass or steel casings, and various grain weights from top sellers only to match your shooting needs.