45 ACP AMMO

45 AUTO | 45 ACP AMMO FOR SALE


At Target Sports USA, we proudly offer an extensive selection of .45 ACP (Automatic Colt Pistol) ammo, trusted by casual shooters, competitive marksmen, and defensive users alike. Known by many names, 45 ACP, 45 auto ammo, or simply .45 ammunition, this legendary cartridge has earned its reputation for reliable stopping power, smooth recoil, and consistent performance across generations. Whether you’re plinking at the range or preparing for personal protection, our inventory includes top-tier brands like Federal, Winchester, and Hornady, all known for their precision and quality. Looking to stock up? We also offer bulk 45 ACP ammo for sale, helping you save without compromising performance.

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OUR TOP 45 ACP AMMO RECOMMENDATIONS

CCI Blazer Brass 45 ACP Ammo 230 Grain Full Metal Jacket - 5230

CCI Blazer Brass 45 ACP Ammo 230 Grain Full Metal Jacket - 5230

CCI Blazer Brass 45 ACP 230gr Full Metal Jacket delivers 830 fps and 352 ft-lbs of reliable range power. With protected-base bullets, clean powder, and CCI primers in reloadable brass, it meets SAAMI specs, ideal for high-volume target shooting and plinking.

Manufacturer CCI
Caliber 45 ACP
Bullet Type Full Metal Jacket
Grain 230
Muzzle Velocity 830 fps
Muzzle Energy 352 ft lbs
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Federal American Eagle 45 ACP Ammunition 230 Grain Full Metal Jacket - AE45A

Federal American Eagle 45 ACP Ammunition 230 Grain Full Metal Jacket - AE45A

Federal American Eagle 45 ACP 230gr Full Metal Jacket delivers 890 fps and 404 ft-lbs from a 5″ barrel. With clean powder, Federal primers, and brass casings, it's reloadable and non-corrosive, ideal for realistic training, target practice, and high-volume use.

Manufacturer Federal
Caliber 45 ACP
Bullet Type Full Metal Jacket
Grain 230
Muzzle Velocity 890 fps
Muzzle Energy 404 ft lbs
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Remington UMC 45 ACP Auto Ammunition 230 Grain Full Metal Jacket - L45AP4

Remington UMC 45 ACP Auto Ammunition 230 Grain Full Metal Jacket - L45AP4

Remington UMC 45 ACP 230gr Full Metal jacket delivers 835 fps and 356 ft-lbs for smooth, clean shooting. With brass casings, Kleanbore primers, and non-corrosive, reloadable design, it's a reliable, American-made option for high-volume target practice.

Manufacturer Remington
Caliber 45 ACP
Bullet Type Full Metal Jacket
Grain 230
Muzzle Velocity 835 fps
Muzzle Energy 356 ft lbs
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USE CASES FOR .45 ACP AMMUNITION

  • Home Defense
  • Concealed Carry
  • Law Enforcement
  • Target Shooting
  • Competitive Shooting

POPULAR .45 ACP AMMO BRANDS

COMMON .45 ACP AMMO CALIBER NAME VARIATIONS


A QUICK "PRIMER" ON .45 ACP AMMO

The .45 ACP (Automatic Colt Pistol) is one of the most iconic handgun cartridges in American firearms history. Developed by John Browning in 1904 and officially adopted by the U.S. military in 1911, the .45 ACP was designed to deliver superior stopping power from a semi-automatic platform. Its standard .451-inch bullet typically ranges from 185 to 230 grains, traveling at subsonic velocities, which makes it not only powerful but also ideal for use with suppressors. The .45 ACP remains a favorite for personal defense, duty use, and competitive shooting, offering a balance of accuracy, recoil control, and terminal performance.

Unlike many modern calibers that favor high velocity, the .45 ACP's heavy bullet delivers energy through mass and momentum, producing excellent penetration and expansion. Whether you're shooting FMJ rounds for training or jacketed hollow points (JHP) for self-defense, the .45 ACP provides consistent and dependable results. In today's market, popular variants include bulk .45 ACP ammo for range days and premium .45 auto self-defense loads from brands like Federal, Winchester, Hornady, and Remington.

Shooters often ask about the difference between .45 ACP and .45 Auto, there is none. The two terms are used interchangeably. Likewise, the .45 ACP is known for manageable recoil despite its size, especially when fired from full-frame pistols like the 1911 or Glock 21. Whether you're a seasoned shooter or new to large-caliber handguns, the .45 ACP offers a proven blend of power and shootability that continues to earn its place in both civilian and military arsenals.

TOP CONSIDERATIONS WHEN BUYING 45 ACP AMMO

When selecting .45 ACP ammo, it's important to align your ammunition with your intended application, whether that's self-defense, range training, or competitive shooting. Here are the key factors to guide your purchase:

Purpose of Use: Determine whether you need ammo for target practice, home defense, or carry use. For training and general range work, Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) rounds are cost-effective and reliable. For defensive purposes, opt for Jacketed Hollow Point (JHP) or defensive expanding bullets designed for maximum stopping power and controlled expansion.

Bullet Weight: The .45 ACP is typically offered in 185-grain, 200-grain, and 230-grain bullets. Lighter weights (185-200 gr) provide slightly higher velocity and flatter shooting, while the traditional 230-grain loads deliver deeper penetration and heavier impact, ideal for defensive or duty applications.

Standard Pressure vs. +P Loads: Standard .45 ACP operates at relatively low pressures, contributing to its manageable recoil. However, +P (overpressure) .45 ACP loads are available for those seeking enhanced velocity and terminal performance. Make sure your firearm is rated for +P ammunition before using it, as not all .45 ACP pistols are built to handle the extra pressure.

Brand and Load Consistency: Stick with reputable manufacturers like Hornady, Federal, Winchester, Remington, and Speer for consistency in velocity, accuracy, and reliability. Defensive loads from Federal HST, Hornady Critical Defense, and Speer Gold Dot are widely respected by law enforcement and civilian carriers alike.

Bulk Buying Options: If you shoot often, purchasing bulk 45 ACP ammo is a smart way to reduce cost per round. Many brands offer FMJ training rounds in 500-round or 1000-round boxes, giving you more range time for your dollar while ensuring a consistent lot of ammunition.

THE .45 ACP AMMO "ROUND UP"

Whether you're defending your home, training at the range, or honoring a timeless American cartridge, .45 ACP ammo delivers the power, reliability, and performance shooters demand. Its enduring reputation stems from over 100 years of proven effectiveness in military, law enforcement, and civilian hands alike. At Target Sports USA, we're proud to offer a carefully curated selection of .45 ACP ammunition from trusted names like Federal, Hornady, and Winchester. From bulk .45 ACP ammo for training to premium defensive rounds, we have what you need to keep your firearm ready for any scenario. Shop confidently and shoot with legacy-grade confidence.

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45 ACP AMMO FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is .45 ACP ammo?+
.45 ACP (Automatic Colt Pistol) is a centerfire pistol cartridge designed by John Browning in 1904. Known for its large bullet diameter (.451 inches), it offers excellent stopping power and has remained a favorite for military, law enforcement, and civilian use for over a century.
What does ACP stand for in .45 ACP?+
ACP stands for "Automatic Colt Pistol." It designates a family of cartridges originally developed for Colt semi-automatic pistols and is a hallmark of classic American handgun design.
Is there a difference between 45 and .45 ACP?+
In casual usage, ".45" and ".45 ACP" often refer to the same round. However, ".45" can also refer to other calibers like .45 Colt or .45 GAP. It's essential to confirm your firearm is specifically chambered for .45 ACP before loading.
What is the best 45 ACP ammo?+
For self-defense, popular choices include Federal Premium HST, Speer Gold Dot, and Hornady Critical Defense. For target practice, reliable options include Winchester White Box, Blazer Brass, and PMC Bronze FMJ rounds.
Can a Glock shoot 45 ACP ammo?+
Yes, models like the Glock 21, Glock 30, and Glock 41 are chambered in .45 ACP. As always, check your firearm's specifications to ensure compatibility with .45 ACP or +P loads.
How does 45 ACP compare to 10mm? (10mm vs 45 ACP)+
45 ACP offers more manageable recoil and larger diameter bullets, while 10mm Auto provides higher velocity and better penetration. For home defense and comfort, .45 ACP is preferred; for backcountry protection or barrier penetration, 10mm excels.
How does 45 ACP compare to 9mm? (45 ACP vs 9mm)+
.45 ACP has greater mass and stopping power, but 9mm offers higher magazine capacity, less recoil, and lower cost per round. Many shooters favor 9mm for training, while .45 ACP is popular for defense due to its heavy-hitting profile.
Will a 45 ACP stop a grizzly bear?+
While capable of delivering lethal force, .45 ACP is not ideal for grizzly bear defense due to its relatively slow velocity and limited penetration on thick-skinned game. More powerful cartridges like 10mm or .44 Magnum are better suited.
Is 45 ACP ammo worth owning today?+
Absolutely. Its consistent performance, wide availability, and proven track record make .45 ACP a reliable choice for defense, sport shooting, and collection. It remains a top-tier option for those who value stopping power.
Why don't police use 45 ACP as much anymore?+
Many law enforcement agencies have moved to 9mm due to its higher capacity, lighter recoil, and improved terminal ballistics in modern loadings. However, some units and special teams still carry .45 ACP for its sheer impact potential.
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