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About 45 Long Colt Ammunition
The .45 Colt, introduced in 1872, was originally developed for use with the Colt Single Action Army revolver. Known for its role in the American West, the .45 Colt has a storied history as a powerful and reliable cartridge. Today, the .45 Colt remains popular among cowboy action shooters and a variety of other types of shooters for its accuracy and traditional appeal.
Types of 45 Long Colt Loadings
- Jacketed Hollow Point (JHP): JHP loadings feature hollow point projectiles which are adorned with a full metal jacket. These loadings are generally found in the form of defensive ammo offerings and are designed to facilitate reliable expansion upon impact. Additionally, these types of loadings are designed to achieve adequate levels of penetration for defensive purposes while not over penetrating the target and risking collateral damage. A good hollow point loading is one that achieves an appropriate level of penetration while expanding reliably upon impact within the target.
- Lead Round Nose (LRN): These loadings feature exposed lead projectiles which feature rounded tips. These types of loadings are common in rimfire ammo offerings and centerfire handgun ammunition loadings. Loadings of this type are well-suited to a variety of use cases and are great for plinking and recreational shooting. The lack of jacketing typically keeps pricing low for these loadings.
- Full Metal Jacket (FMJ): Like the name suggests, these types of loadings feature projectiles which are adorned with metal jacketing. This jacket is generally made of copper and will cover the tip and sides of the projectile. Typically, the base of the projectile is left uncoated.These types of loadings are well-suited for range use and are some of the most common types of ammo one will encounter.
- Bonded Soft Point (SP): SP loadings feature soft, exposed lead projectile tips which are conducive to expanding upon impact. These loadings are mainly utilized in hunting applications and are effective at imparting a high degree of kinetic energy transfer. Specialty SP loadings also exist which are optimized for different types of hunting and game.
- Lead Round Nose Flat Point (LRNFP): LRNFP loadings feature a flat-nosed, round lead projectile, ensuring safe use in tubular magazines. These are effective for hunting and target shooting.
Firearms that Use 45 Long Colt Ammo
The .45 Colt is most commonly found in the form of revolvers and lever-action rifles. Revolvers in .45 Colt are mostly available in the form of single action revolvers, though some double action offerings exist such as the Taurus Judge and Smith & Wesson Governor. These types of firearms are available in traditional, authentic forms and in the form of modernized offerings.
Use Cases for 45 Colt Ammunition
- Plinking
- Cowboy Action Shooting
- Hunting
- Defense
Popular Brands: 45 Long Colt Ammo
Caliber Name Variations
- .45 Long Colt
- .45 Long
- .45 Colt
45 Long Colt Interchangeability
Some firearms chambered in .45 Colt can also accept .410 bore shotshells, offering versatility for those who own firearms like the Taurus Judge or Smith & Wesson Governor. However, this should only be done in firearms specifically designed to handle both calibers. One should always consult the literature accompanying their firearm or contact the manufacturer if there are any concerns of compatibility.
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