About 45 ACP Ammo
First developed by John Browning in 1904, .45 ACP (Automatic Colt Pistol) ammunition is a rimless pistol cartridge for use in the semi-automatic Colt pistol.
Browning's design for the 45 ACP cartridge was a vast departure from the smaller calibers commonly used at the time.
The round featured a large, heavy bullet that delivered substantial energy upon impact, making it effective at close range.
With a bullet diameter of .45 inches (11.43mm), the cartridge typically fires a heavy bullet weighing between 185 to 230 grains at a moderate velocity of 830 to 1,200 ft/s, resulting in substantial muzzle energy, ranging from 350 to 580 ft-lb.
.45 ACP has a storied history, most notably serving as the standard-issue sidearm ammunition for the United States Armed Forces from 1911 to 1985. *In 1911, the U.S. military adopted the Colt Model 1911 pistol as its standard-issue sidearm, and 45 ACP ammo became the standard.
The ease of reloading .45 ACP rounds also adds to its allure, especially among handloading enthusiasts.
These factors create a legacy and trust in the .45 ACP that few cartridges can match for military, law enforcement, and civilians.
Today, 45 ACP is manufactured by nearly all respected ammunition brands worldwide, making it reasonably affordable compared to similar-sized calibers, and is commonly used in personal and home defense marksmanship competitions.
Common Names for 45 ACP Ammo
Since its initial introduction over 120 years ago, The 45 ACP (Automatic Colt Pistol) cartridge has had many different name variations.
Some of the most common include:
- 45 ACP Ammunition
- 45 Auto Ammo
- 45 Ammo
- 45 ACP Bullets
- 45 Cal
- .45 ACP Ammo
- 45 ACP Bullets
- 45 Cal
- .45 ACP Ammo
Regardless of your preferred terminology, .45 ACP ammo has remained massively popular over the years and is available in the lineup of every significant American ammo manufacturer.
Popular .45 ACP Firearms
GLOCK
Glock 37 Models: Chambered in .45 G.A.P. (Glock Automatic Pistol), the Glock 37 offers the power of the .45 ACP in a slimmer package, making it more manageable for a variety of hand sizes without sacrificing stopping power.
Glock 39 Models: The Glock 39 is a subcompact model chambered in .45 G.A.P., providing a powerful yet concealable option for self-defense. Its compact size and reliable performance make it a top choice for concealed carry.
Glock 41 Models: Designed with competitive shooting in mind, the Glock 41 is a long-slide .45 ACP that balances power with precision. Its extended barrel and slide offer improved accuracy, making it a favorite among sport shooters.
Glock 21 Models: A standard in .45 ACP, the Glock 21 is known for its high capacity and reliability. It's a go-to choice for law enforcement and civilians alike who require a potent sidearm with proven performance.
Glock 30 Models: The Glock 30 brings .45 ACP power in a more compact frame. Ideal for concealed carry, it maintains a high capacity while offering the formidable stopping power and reliability Glock is known for.
Glock 36 Models: With its ultra-compact design, the Glock 36 is a single-stack .45 ACP that combines concealability with stopping power. It's perfect for those who want a slim, powerful handgun without the bulk.
SIG SAUER
Sig P320 Compact: The Sig P320 Compact offers modularity and versatility in a compact size. Chambered in various calibers, it provides a customizable platform for personal defense and duty use, with a reputation for accuracy and reliability.
Sig P227R Nitron: Offering .45 ACP power in a high-capacity double-stack magazine, the Sig P227R Nitron combines stopping power with Sig Sauer's renowned precision and ergonomic design.
Sig P220 Elite: The Sig P220 Elite adds refined features to the classic P220 platform, such as an enhanced beavertail grip and custom wood grips, making it a premium choice in .45 ACP pistols.
Sig P220 Legion: Part of Sig's elite Legion series, the P220 Legion is built for the discerning shooter, with upgraded features like a gray PVD coating, custom G-10 grips, and enhanced action for superior performance in .45 ACP.
Sig 1911 Models: Sig Sauer's 1911 models blend timeless design with modern improvements, offering shooters a range of 1911 pistols that respect tradition while embracing innovation.
SMITH & WESSON
S&W M&P 45 M2.0: The M&P 45 M2.0 improves on Smith & Wesson's polymer frame design with advanced features for ergonomics and performance in .45 ACP, making it a solid choice for duty or personal defense.
S&W SW1911 Models: Combining classic 1911 styling with S&W's manufacturing excellence, the SW1911 models are available in various configurations, offering reliability, precision, and timeless appeal.
S&W M&P 45 Shield: The M&P 45 Shield is a slim, concealable .45 ACP designed for personal defense. It offers the power of a larger caliber in a size that's easy to carry daily.
S&W M&P 45 Shield PC M2.0: This Performance Center version of the M&P 45 Shield elevates the design with fine-tuned action, ported barrel, and enhanced features for shooters seeking a cut above in a concealable firearm.
Colt 1911 Government: The iconic Colt Government model in 1911 is a symbol of American firearms excellence, offering .45 ACP power in a design that has served soldiers and civilians for over a century.
Colt 1911 Totus: A special edition with custom features and finishes, the Colt 1911 Totus combines the classic 1911 design with unique enhancements for collectors and enthusiasts.
Colt Defender: Ideal for concealed carry, the Colt Defender offers the stopping power of a .45 ACP in a compact, lightweight design, making it a reliable choice for self-defense.
Colt Series 70 Government: A faithful reproduction of the original Series 70 design, this model offers the purity of the early 1911 models with modern manufacturing standards, appreciated by purists and modern shooters alike.
Colt M45A1: Developed for the Marine Corps, the M45A1 is a modernized 1911 that features upgraded materials and components for enhanced durability and performance in harsh conditions.
45 ACP Ammunition Features
LARGE BULLET DIAMETER
45 ACP ammo has a large bullet diameter, typically around .452 inches, which provides good stopping power and expansion upon impact.
GOOD PENETRATION
45 ACP ammo typically has good penetration, allowing it to penetrate deeply into a target.
MODERATE RECOIL
While .45 ACP ammunition can produce significant recoil, it is generally less than other high-powered pistol cartridges, making it easier to shoot accurately for extended periods of time.
EFFECTIVE STOPPING POWER
45 ACP ammunition delivers effective stopping power, making it an ideal choice for self-defense and law enforcement purposes.
PERFORMANCE
Regarding overall performance, .45 ACP ammo is commonly viewed as a highly effective pistol cartridge. This is because 45 ACP ammo combines accuracy and stopping power, has a relatively low muzzle blast and flash, and produces a stout but manageable recoil in handguns.
AVAILABILITY
With a steady following among gun enthusiasts, military, and law enforcement 45 ACP ammo is considered a readily available caliber in-store and online. With countless firearm models and calibers in-stock, Ammunition Depot has the bulk ammunition type you're looking for at a price that won't break the bank.
Popular .45 ACP Brands
Federal Premium
Known for high-quality ammunition, Federal Premium offers a variety of .45 ACP rounds, including their HST line for self-defense and American Eagle for target shooting.
Winchester
A storied brand in the ammunition industry, Winchester provides a wide array of .45 ACP options, from their reliable FMJ rounds for practice to their Defender series for personal protection.
Remington
Remington’s .45 ACP ammunition, including their UMC line, is popular for its balance of performance and value, catering to both target shooters and those looking for self-defense options.
Blazer (by CCI)
Known for their innovative and high-quality ammunition, CCI offers .45 ACP options such as their Blazer Brass for economical practice and their Speer Gold Dot for self-defense.
Hornady
Hornady’s .45 ACP ammunition is well-regarded, especially their Critical Defense and Critical Duty lines, which are designed for reliable performance in self-defense situations.
SIG Sauer
SIG Sauer’s ammunition, including their .45 ACP rounds, is held in high esteem, offering both practice and elite performance options for various shooting needs.
Aguila
Reliable and affordable, Aguila is a Mexican ammunition manufacturer that offers a variety of calibers, including multiple 45 ACP options suitable for practice and self-defense.
Fiocchi
An Italian manufacturer with a strong reputation, Fiocchi offers .45 ACP rounds that are well-regarded for their consistent performance and reliability.
PMC
PMC’s .45 ACP ammunition is known for its reliability and affordability, making it a favorite among budget-conscious shooters.
Armscor
Offering a wide range of ammunition at competitive prices, Armscor’s .45 ACP rounds are popular for both target shooting and self-defense.
45 ACP Ammo FAQs
QUESTION: What is 45 ACP Ammo?
ANSWER: 45 ACP is a handgun cartridge designed by John Moses Browning in 1904. It is a 45 caliber round that was originally created for the Colt semiautomatic pistol, which was also designed by Browning. It's a .452-inch-diameter bullet in a rimless straight-walled casing developed to produce a round with better stopping power than the other rounds of the time.
QUESTION: What does the ACP stand for in 45 ACP?
ANSWER: ACP is an acronym that stands for Automatic Colt Pistol. The letters are used in a variety of ammunition types based on the self-loading design of Colt pistols Browning developed for the Colt firearms company. The most famous of these is Browning's M1911, which was adopted for use by the U.S. military.
QUESTION: What is the difference between 45 Auto and 45 ACP?
ANSWER: There is no difference between the two rounds. Although they have different names, the 45 ACP and 45 Auto are the exact same cartridge. The same principle also applies when using a ‘.’ before the caliber (.45 Auto Ammo and .45 ACP Ammo). In the end, the naming convention you use mostly comes down to personal preference and the context of the conversation.
QUESTION: How much is 45 ACP ammo?
ANSWER: 45 ACP ammunition is similar in price range to other popular handgun calibers. However, it does run on the more expensive side of the range. Depending on market conditions, including high demand or supply chain issues, the price fluctuates. The cost of .45 ACP can fall anywhere from $.05 to $.20 per round more than 9mm ammo. For the best price and selection, check out the 45 ACP ammo for sale at Ammunition Depot!
QUESTION: Where to buy 45 ACP ammo?
ANSWER: Because it has such a long and storied history, .45 ACP ammo is available at all locations where ammo is sold. You can find 45 ACP ammo for sale online and in-store at like gun stores, gun shows and indoor shooting ranges. For the widest variety of options, such as target and defensive rounds, buying online is recommended.
QUESTION: Which guns shoot 45 ACP Ammo?
ANSWER: Guns that shoot 45 ACP are marked as such and can be found at almost every gun store. The most famous of these is the M1911. Boasting the same design as the original over 100 years later, the 1911 pistol has only strengthened the demand for .45 ACP ammo. Because of this, there are numerous gun manufacturers continuing to develop guns for the venerable caliber.
QUESTION: What is the best type of 45 ACP ammo?
ANSWER: Because this ammunition has been around for so long, the quality and performance have for the most part been standardized. That means you can expect to have quality rounds to fit your needs from most manufacturers.
Regardless of your situation, there is a quality 45 ACP round ready to fill your needs. Which .45 ACP ammo round is best for you depends on personal preferences and whether you're shooting targets or carrying for self-defense.
QUESTION: Can I buy 45 ACP ammo in bulk?
ANSWER: Absolutely, .45 ACP ammo is readily available in bulk quantities for target and self-defense configurations. Additionally, buying in bulk quantities can even decrease your overall price per round. For the best selection, check out online retailers or Ammunition Depot's bulk section to find what suits your budget and needs.