.45 Colt Prices
| PRODUCT | DEALER | QUANTITY | PRICE | SHIPPING | TOTAL PRICE | PRICE/RD |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sentry Ammo | 1000 | $698.53 | $68.44 | $766.97 |
$0.77
1000 Rounds
|
|
| Sentry Ammo | 400 | $354.25 | $13.99 | $368.24 |
$0.92
400 Rounds
|
|
| Black Basin Outdoors | 400 | $348.00 | $43.99 | $391.99 |
$0.98
400 Rounds
|
|
| Sentry Ammo | 400 | $388.65 | $13.99 | $402.64 |
$1.01
400 Rounds
|
|
| Sentry Ammo | 400 | $396.36 | $13.99 | $410.35 |
$1.03
400 Rounds
|
|
| Black Basin Outdoors | 400 | $440.00 | $39.99 | $479.99 |
$1.20
400 Rounds
|
|
| Fast Ammo | 200 | $211.60 | $37.99 | $249.59 |
$1.25
200 Rounds
|
|
| Sentry Ammo | 400 | $494.56 | $13.99 | $508.55 |
$1.27
400 Rounds
|
|
| Sentry Ammo | 400 | $505.02 | $13.99 | $519.01 |
$1.30
400 Rounds
|
|
| Sentry Ammo | 400 | $542.97 | $13.99 | $556.96 |
$1.39
400 Rounds
|
|
| Black Basin Outdoors | 400 | $520.00 | $50.99 | $570.99 |
$1.43
400 Rounds
|
|
| Sentry Ammo | 400 | $571.52 | $13.99 | $585.51 |
$1.46
400 Rounds
|
|
| Black Basin Outdoors | 20 | $25.97 | $10.99 | $36.96 |
$1.85
20 Rounds
|
|
| Fast Ammo | 20 | $27.78 | $12.99 | $40.77 |
$2.04
20 Rounds
|
|
| Fast Ammo | 200 | $407.93 | $47.99 | $455.92 |
$2.28
200 Rounds
|
.45 Colt Overview
The .45 Colt represents one of America's most historic and enduring cartridges. Introduced in 1873 as the official military handgun cartridge, it earned its reputation on the American frontier and continues to serve modern shooters. Originally designed for black powder, the cartridge has evolved into a versatile round capable of both mild cowboy loads and, in modern strong revolvers, magnum-level hunting performance.
Today's .45 Colt serves multiple roles: a main staple of cowboy action shooting, a potent hunting cartridge in strong modern revolvers, and a reliable defensive round. Its large case capacity allows for a wide range of loadings, from soft-shooting target loads to heavy outdoor loads rivaling the .44 Magnum in proper firearms. This versatility, combined with its historic significance, maintains its popularity among diverse groups of shooters.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Pros
- Excellent accuracy potential
- Wide range of loading options
- Heavy bullets for hunting use
- Mild recoil with standard loads
- Works well in both revolvers and rifles
Cons
- More expensive ammunition than modern cartridges
- Limited firearm options compared to newer rounds
- Heavy bullet weight affects trajectory
- Must be careful with load selection for older revolvers
- Less readily available than more common cartridges
.45 Colt Ballistics
The .45 Colt offers a wide performance range: standard pressure loads typically run 750-900 fps, while heavy loads in modern strong revolvers can exceed 1,300 fps. Use this free ballistics calculator to customize ballistic data for whatever load you are using.
Similar Calibers Compared
| Caliber | Typical Bullet Weight | Muzzle Velocity | Muzzle Energy | Energy at 50 yds |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| .45 Colt (Standard) | 255gr | 850 fps | 408 ft-lbs | 350 ft-lbs |
| .45 Colt (Ruger Only) | 300gr | 1300 fps | 1124 ft-lbs | 890 ft-lbs |
| .45 ACP | 230gr | 850 fps | 369 ft-lbs | 320 ft-lbs |
| .44 Magnum | 240gr | 1450 fps | 1124 ft-lbs | 890 ft-lbs |
What .45 Colt Does Best
Cowboy Action Shooting
The .45 Colt excels in Cowboy Action Shooting, where its historic authenticity and mild recoil with standard loads make it a popular choice. The cartridge's inherent accuracy and ability to make major power factor with relatively light recoil gives competitors an advantage. The ability to use the same ammunition in both revolvers and rifles simplifies competition logistics.
Big Game Hunting
In modern strong revolvers like the Ruger Blackhawk and T.C. Contender, the .45 Colt can be loaded to impressive velocities suitable for large game hunting. These "Ruger-only" loads can match or exceed .44 Magnum performance, while the heavy bullets provide excellent penetration. The cartridge is particularly effective in lever-action rifles, where it serves as an excellent deer and bear cartridge.
Traditional Shooting
For shooters who appreciate traditional firearms and historical authenticity, the .45 Colt offers an unmatched connection to America's frontier heritage. The cartridge works exceptionally well with cast lead bullets, allowing handloaders to recreate historic loads or develop specialized loads for specific applications. Its mild recoil with standard loads makes it enjoyable for recreational shooting.
Types of Projectiles
Standard Pressure
- Traditional loadings safe in all .45 Colt firearms
Cowboy Action
- Light recoiling loads optimized for competition
High Pressure (Ruger Only)
- Heavy hunting loads for modern strong revolvers
Cast Lead
- Traditional-style bullets for practice and competition
Common .45 Colt Bullet Weights
200-225 grain
- Light bullets for reduced recoil and competition use
250-255 grain
- Traditional weight for general use
300-325 grain
- Heavy bullets for hunting in strong modern firearms