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.45 ACP Ammo

Whether you shoot a 1911 or another .45 ACP handgun, Palmetto State Armory is your source for ammunition. We have .45 ACP ammunition from Fiocchi, Wincherster, Federal, Hornady, and more. Shop now.
Bulk 45 ACP

Bulk 45 ACP
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45 ACP Firearms

45 ACP Firearms
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  1. Winchester 45 Auto/ACP 230gr PDX1 Ammunition 20rds - S45PDB

    Winchester 45 Auto/ACP 230gr PDX1 Ammunition 20rds - S45PDB

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Learn More about .45 ACP Ammo

History

The .45 ACP (Automatic Colt Pistol) is a cartridge with a story that runs deep through American firearms history. Designed by John Browning in 1905, it was introduced by Colt for use in its semi-automatic pistols, primarily the M1911. The U.S. Army officially adopted the round in 1911, seeking a hard-hitting cartridge for stopping power in close-quarters combat. The need for such a powerful round became evident after early encounters in the Philippines, where the lighter .38-caliber rounds struggled to incapacitate determined attackers. The .45 ACP quickly became a favorite, praised for its stopping power and ability to deliver solid, dependable performance. Its popularity soared after both World Wars and continued into the modern era, especially among shooters who value tradition, reliability, and a hard-hitting round. The .45 ACP has maintained its place as an iconic round in American culture, with the M1911 still seeing widespread use in civilian, military, and law enforcement circles.

Practical Application

In practical terms, the .45 ACP is a heavy-duty round that works well in various applications, from self-defense to recreational shooting. It’s known for its large, slow-moving bullets that create substantial wound channels, making it highly effective for self-defense at close ranges. Many law enforcement and military personnel still rely on it, particularly for special operations roles where every shot needs to count. Beyond defense, the .45 ACP is popular among competition shooters, especially in bullseye and action shooting. Its recoil is manageable in heavier firearms, and many shooters find that the .45’s slower, softer recoil allows for quicker follow-up shots compared to some calibers with sharper kick. For those who reload, the .45 ACP is a versatile cartridge, allowing a wide range of bullet weights and load combinations that can be tailored to specific needs, from target shooting to more intense defensive applications.

.45 ACP vs. 9mm

One of the classic debates in the handgun world is the .45 ACP versus the 9mm. Both rounds have their fan bases, and each has its own set of strengths. The 9mm is lighter, faster, and can fit more rounds in a magazine, making it an attractive choice for those looking for capacity and speed. The .45 ACP, on the other hand, is heavier and slower, delivering superior stopping power in a single shot and creating a more significant wound channel. The .45 ACP also tends to perform better through barriers, making it a strong choice for those needing to shoot through obstacles, such as glass or sheet metal, while retaining its terminal effectiveness. Many experienced shooters and those who favor a more traditional approach still prefer the .45 ACP for its time-tested performance. While the 9mm has become the standard in many law enforcement and military settings, there’s no denying that the .45 ACP brings a level of power and presence that the 9mm lacks. It may not be the fastest, but when it hits, it hits hard.

Accuracy

Accuracy is one of the areas where the .45 ACP excels, especially in a quality firearm. Thanks to its manageable recoil and steady, consistent ballistic profile, the .45 ACP is known for its accuracy in close to medium ranges. Many shooters can achieve excellent groupings with this round, even at 25 yards or more, especially in a well-tuned 1911 or other quality platform. The .45 ACP provides a controllable yet powerful option for target shooting and competitions, with the recoil being more of a “push” than a “snap.” While it’s not typically considered a long-range round, shooters find that the .45 ACP’s steady, low-velocity trajectory makes it predictable, adding to its accuracy potential. As with any round, the shooter’s experience and the firearm play significant roles, but the .45 ACP is more than capable of delivering precision when paired with a trained hand and solid equipment.

Affordability

Regarding affordability, the .45 ACP sits in the middle of the pack compared to other centerfire cartridges. It’s not as inexpensive as the 9mm, which has surged in popularity recently, making it the go-to choice for cost-conscious shooters. However, the .45 ACP is still relatively affordable, with a steady supply of factory loads from various manufacturers. It’s also widely available, so you’ll generally be able to find it in most places that stock ammunition. Reloading enthusiasts also find the .45 ACP to be a good value. With durable brass cases that are relatively easy to work with, it’s a practical choice for those looking to save by reloading their rounds. Bullet options are extensive, ranging from economical cast lead to high-performance jacketed hollow points. While you might pay a little more for .45 ACP rounds than 9mm, the investment is well worth it for those who want that extra stopping power and traditional feel of a larger caliber.

Why Buy .45 ACP Ammo from Palmetto State Armory?

Choose Palmetto State Armory for your .45 ACP ammo needs, offering a wide selection of premium-quality ammunition at unbeatable prices. Whether you're prepping for self-defense, target practice, or competitive shooting, our reliable inventory includes top brands and various load options to suit every requirement. Enjoy fast shipping and exceptional customer service when you purchase your .45 ACP ammo from Palmetto State Armory today, ensuring you’re always ready for your next shooting experience.