45 ACP Ammo icon

45 ACP Ammo For Sale

Live Inventory
An iconic American cartridge, the .45 ACP was popularized in John Browning’s classic Colt Model 1911 pistol. To shop 45 ACP ammo in bulk, check out our 45 acp bulk ammo page. Today it remains as popular as ever – with military, police, and civilian shooters continuing to make this cartridge their choice for personal protection. Learn More
per page
  1. Federal American Eagle 45 ACP Ammo - 1000 Rounds of 230 Grain FMJ Ammunition

    $474.99

    $434.99

    79 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type FMJ
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 890 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 404 ft lbs
    • 1000 Rounds
    • 43.5¢ per round
    • Made by Federal
  2. Blazer 45 ACP Ammo - 1000 Rounds of 230 Grain FMJ Ammunition

    $444.99

    59 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type Full Metal Jacket (FMJ)
    Primer Type Berdan
    Casing Type Aluminum
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 845 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 365 ft lbs
    • 1000 Rounds
    • 44.5¢ per round
    • Made by Blazer
  3. Magtech 45 ACP Ammo - 1000 Rounds of 230 Grain FMJ Ammunition

    $449.99

    57 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type Full Metal Jacket (FMJ)
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 837 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 358 ft lbs
    • 1000 Rounds
    • 45¢ per round
    • Made by Magtech
  4. Speer Lawman 45 ACP Ammo - 1000 Rounds of 230 Grain TMJ Ammunition

    $449.99

    7 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type TMJ
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 845 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 365 ft lbs
    • 1000 Rounds
    • 45¢ per round
    • Made by Speer
  5. Speer Lawman 45 ACP Ammo - 1000 Rounds of 230 Grain TMJ Ammunition

    $454.99

    83 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type TMJ
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 830 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 352 ft lbs
    • 1000 Rounds
    • 45.5¢ per round
    • Made by Speer
  6. Sellier & Bellot 45 ACP Ammo - 1000 Rounds of 230 Grain FMJ Ammunition

    $454.99

    39 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type Full Metal Jacket (FMJ)
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 853 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 371 ft lbs
  7. Federal American Eagle 45 ACP Ammo - 500 Rounds of 230 Grain FMJ Ammunition

    $244.99

    58 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type Full Metal Jacket (FMJ)
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 890 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 404 ft lbs
    • 500 Rounds
    • 49¢ per round
    • Made by Federal
  8. Federal Syntech 45 ACP Ammo - 500 Rounds of 230 Grain Total Synthetic Jacket Ammunition

    $244.99

    65 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type TSJ
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 830 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 352 ft lbs
    • 500 Rounds
    • 49¢ per round
    • Made by Federal
  9. Winchester USA 45 ACP Ammo - 500 Rounds of 230 Grain FMJ Ammunition

    $249.99

    10 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type FMJ
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 835 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 356 ft lbs
  10. Blazer 45 ACP Ammo - 50 Rounds of 230 Grain FMJ Ammunition

    $25.99

    47 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type FMJ
    Primer Type Berdan
    Casing Type Aluminum
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 845 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 365 ft lbs
    • 50 Rounds
    • 52.0¢ per round
    • Made by Blazer
  11. Federal Gold Medal Match 45 ACP Ammo - 1000 Rounds of 185 Grain FMJ SWC Ammunition

    $519.99

    74 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type Semi-Wadcutter
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 770 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 244 ft lbs
    • 1000 Rounds
    • 52¢ per round
    • Made by Federal
  12. Remington UMC 45 ACP Ammo - 1000 Rounds of 230 Grain FMJ Ammunition

    $529.99

    14 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type Full Metal Jacket (FMJ)
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 835 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 356 ft lbs
    • 1000 Rounds
    • 53.0¢ per round
    • Made by Remington
  13. Remington UMC 45 ACP Ammo - 500 Rounds of 230 Grain FMJ Ammunition

    $269.99

    80 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type Full Metal Jacket (FMJ)
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 835 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 356 ft lbs
    • 500 Rounds
    • 54¢ per round
    • Made by Remington
  14. Speer Lawman 45 ACP Ammo - 50 Rounds of 230 Grain TMJ Ammunition

    $27.49

    37 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type TMJ
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 830 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 352 ft lbs
    • 50 Rounds
    • 55¢ per round
    • Made by Speer
  15. Winchester USA 45 ACP Ammo - 100 Rounds of 230 Grain FMJ Ammunition

    $54.99

    12 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type Full Metal Jacket (FMJ)
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 835 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 356 ft lbs
  16. Sellier & Bellot 45 ACP Ammo - 50 Rounds of 230 Grain FMJ Ammunition

    $28.99

    41 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type Full Metal Jacket (FMJ)
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 853 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 372 ft lbs
  17. Federal American Eagle 45 ACP Ammo - 50 Rounds of 230 Grain FMJ Ammunition

    $28.99

    117 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type Full Metal Jacket (FMJ)
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 890 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 404 ft lbs
    • 50 Rounds
    • 58¢ per round
    • Made by Federal
  18. Ammo Inc. Streak 45 ACP Ammo - 1000 Rounds of 230 Grain TMJ Non-Incendiary Visual Tracer Ammunition

    $579.99

    7 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type TMJ
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 925 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 437 ft lbs
    • 1000 Rounds
    • 58.0¢ per round
    • Made by Streak
  19. Federal Syntech Action Pistol 45 ACP Ammo - 500 Rounds of 220 Grain Total Synthetic Jacket Ammunition

    $294.99

    22 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type TSJ
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 795 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 309 ft lbs
    • 500 Rounds
    • 59.0¢ per round
    • Made by Federal
  20. Winchester USA 45 ACP Ammo - 50 Rounds of 230 Grain FMJ Ammunition

    $29.99

    14 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type Full Metal Jacket (FMJ)
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 835 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 356 ft lbs
  21. Blazer 45 ACP Ammo - 50 Rounds of 230 Grain TMJ Ammunition

    $29.99

    94 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type Total Metal Jacket (TMJ)
    Primer Type Berdan
    Casing Type Aluminum
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 845 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 365 ft lbs
    • 50 Rounds
    • 60.0¢ per round
    • Made by Blazer
  22. Federal American Eagle 45 ACP Ammo - 50 Rounds of 230 Grain TMJ Ammunition

    $29.99

    77 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type Total Metal Jacket (TMJ)
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 850 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 369 ft lbs
    • 50 Rounds
    • 60.0¢ per round
    • Made by Federal
  23. Speer Lawman 45 ACP Ammo - 50 Rounds of 230 Grain TMJ Ammunition

    $29.99

    95 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type Total Metal Jacket (TMJ)
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 845 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 365 ft lbs
    • 50 Rounds
    • 60¢ per round
    • Made by Speer
  24. Magtech 45 ACP Ammo - 50 Rounds of 230 Grain FMJ Ammunition

    $30.00

    37 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type Full Metal Jacket (FMJ)
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 837 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 358 ft lbs
    • 50 Rounds
    • 60¢ per round
    • Made by Magtech
  25. Fiocchi 45 ACP Ammo - 500 Rounds of 200 Grain JHP Ammunition

    $299.99

    40 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type JHP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 890 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 352 ft lbs
    • 500 Rounds
    • 60¢ per round
    • Made by Fiocchi
  26. Remington UMC 45 ACP Ammo - 50 Rounds of 230 Grain FMJ Ammunition

    $31.99

    87 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type Full Metal Jacket (FMJ)
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 835 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 356 ft lbs
    • 50 Rounds
    • 64.0¢ per round
    • Made by Remington
  27. PMC 45 ACP Ammo - 50 Rounds of 185 Grain JHP Ammunition

    $32.99

    33 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type Jacketed Hollow-Point (JHP)
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 900 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 333 ft lbs
    • 50 Rounds
    • 66.0¢ per round
    • Made by PMC
  28. Federal Gold Medal Match 45 ACP Ammo - 50 Rounds of 185 Grain FMJ SWC Ammunition

    $32.99

    118 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type Semi-Wadcutter
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 770 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 244 ft lbs
    • 50 Rounds
    • 66¢ per round
    • Made by Federal
  29. Federal Range. Target. Practice. 45 ACP Ammo - 50 Rounds of 230 Grain FMJ Ammunition

    $32.99

    47 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type Full Metal Jacket (FMJ)
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 830 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 352 ft lbs
    • 50 Rounds
    • 66.0¢ per round
    • Made by Federal
  30. Fiocchi 45 ACP Ammo - 500 Rounds of 230 Grain JHP Ammunition

    $329.99

    15 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type JHP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 850 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 369 ft lbs
    • 500 Rounds
    • 66¢ per round
    • Made by Fiocchi
  31. Federal 45 ACP Ammo - 1000 Rounds of 230 Grain JHP Ammunition

    $663.99

    39 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type Jacketed Hollow-Point (JHP)
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Nickel-Plated Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 900 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 414 ft lbs
    • 1000 Rounds
    • 66.4¢ per round
    • Made by Federal
  32. Fiocchi 45 ACP Ammo - 50 Rounds of 200 Grain JHP Ammunition

    $34.99

    111 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type Jacketed Hollow-Point (JHP)
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 890 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 352 ft lbs
    • 50 Rounds
    • 70¢ per round
    • Made by Fiocchi
  33. Ammo Inc. Streak 45 ACP Ammo - 50 Rounds of 230 Grain TMJ Non-Incendiary Visual Tracer Ammunition

    $34.99

    45 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type Total Metal Jacket (TMJ)
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 925 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 437 ft lbs
    • 50 Rounds
    • 70.0¢ per round
    • Made by Streak
  34. Prvi Partizan 45 ACP Ammo - 50 Rounds of 185 Grain JHP Ammunition

    $35.49

    134 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type Jacketed Hollow-Point (JHP)
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 935 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 359 ft lbs
  35. Winchester USA Ready 45 ACP Ammo - 50 Rounds of 230 Grain FMJ FN Ammunition

    $35.99

    10 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type Full Metal Jacket Flat Nose (FMJFN)
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 880 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 395 ft lbs
  36. Remington UMC 45 ACP Ammo - 500 Rounds of 230 Grain JHP Ammunition

    $359.99

    15 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type Jacketed Hollow-Point (JHP)
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 835 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 356 ft lbs
    • 500 Rounds
    • 72¢ per round
    • Made by Remington
  37. Fiocchi 45 ACP Ammo - 50 Rounds of 230 Grain JHP Ammunition

    $39.99

    18 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type Jacketed Hollow-Point (JHP)
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 850 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 369 ft lbs
    • 50 Rounds
    • 80¢ per round
    • Made by Fiocchi
  38. Remington UMC 45 ACP Ammo - 50 Rounds of 230 Grain JHP Ammunition

    $39.99

    132 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type Jacketed Hollow-Point (JHP)
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 835 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 356 ft lbs
    • 50 Rounds
    • 80.0¢ per round
    • Made by Remington
  39. Federal Law Enforcement HST 45 ACP Ammo - 50 Rounds of 230 Grain JHP Ammunition

    $39.99

    34 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type JHP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Nickel-Plated Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 890 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 404 ft lbs
    • 50 Rounds
    • 80¢ per round
    • Made by Federal
  40. Speer Gold Dot 45 ACP +P Ammo - 50 Rounds of 200 Grain JHP Ammunition

    $39.99

    31 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type Jacketed Hollow-Point (JHP)
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Nickel-Plated Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1080 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 518 ft lbs
    • 50 Rounds
    • 80.0¢ per round
    • Made by Speer
  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 3

History of 45 ACP Ammo

Designed by an American, made in America, and created for the United States Armed Forces – nothing encompasses the American spirit of ammunition like the .45 Auto caliber and the gun it was made for. Known as the .45 ACP, this cartridge is the all-American bullet. And over 100 years after its debut, it’s still used by both law enforcement and civilians, and remains a favorite across the U.S.

What is .45 ACP Ammo?

The .45 Automatic Colt Pistol (ACP), also known as the .45 Auto, is a caliber of ammunition designed by John Moses Browning in 1905. The standard ammo design holds a 230 grain (gr) lead bullet that travels at an impressive 830 feet per second (fps).

.45 Auto bullets measure 11.43 x 23mm, with a bullet diameter of .451 inch. Its casing features a slight taper – from the casing’s rim to its mouth, there’s a .003 inch difference.

Used in the military, by law enforcement, by civilians for personal protection, and as a first-class match cartridge, the .45 ACP gives its shooter an ammunition that’s accurate and has excellent stopping power. While it can take some practice to become effective with these rounds, it often becomes a favorite to shoot.

Development of the .45 ACP

When >Browning created the .45 Auto, he was looking for a replacement for the "less than stellar" .38 Long Colt cartridge for the U.S. military. The U.S. Cavalry had determined that they lacked an efficient and effective bullet and that the cailbers they currently had available did not pose big enough threats to their enemies.

Army weaponry at the time included the 1860 Colt Army and the 1873 Single Action Army, but the .44 ball and .454 flat-tipped bullets didn’t expand or create the ideal damage. After field testing a number of calibers in 1904, it was determined that nothing less than a .45 bullet would have the stopping power the military was looking for. Military stipulations also included a firearm that could hold no less than six rounds, a bullet that weighed at least 230 gr, and a trigger pull that was no less than six pounds.

In 1905, Browning introduced his first .45 ACP cartridge to the U.S. Army, along with what would become his prototype for the iconic M1911 pistol. The original 200 gr bullet traveled 900 feet per second, but Browning tested the weapon and cartridge over the next six years, making modifications until it became what it still is to this day – ammo with an increased bullet weight of 230 gr (while keeping the same powder load) and a decreased muzzle velocity of 830 feet per second. These features remained the standard load for the .45 ACP throughout its service life and into today.

The Success of the M1911 and the .45 ACP

In March of 1911, the Army set forth on the final testing to determine its new service weapon. The choices had been narrowed down to a Savage and a Colt, with casings covered in acid and sand, and each weapon firing 6,000 rounds. Of the rounds fired, the Savage had only 37 incidents. The Colt had none, and the M1911 became the official weapon of the U.S. Armed Forces.

The success of the M1911 is one of the reasons the .45 ACP cartridge rose in popularity. Over its course, the firearm and its cartridge became the longest serving pistol of any military force and it remains an icon among gun collectors and enthusiasts.

Numerous stories circulate about the role the M1911 has played in the our military history. At least 68 awardees of the Medal of Honor have carried the .45 ACP and the M1911 pistol in the course of their heroic actions. In one such act during World War I, Sergeant Alvin York used his .45 ACP to single-handedly kill six German soldiers while assaulting their machine gun emplacements, supporting the claim that the cartridge is an excellent man stopper.

Why is the .45 ACP So Popular?

The .45 ACP grew in popularity outside of the Armed Forces due to its ability to adapt to a variety of shooting applications, including sport shooting, law enforcement, and self defense. Both target shooters and backyard shooters appreciate the .45 ACP for its accuracy, mild recoil, and heavy bullet.

Law enforcement agencies have chosen the .45 ACP for its proven ability to stop dangerous aggressors. Units such as the FBI’s Hostage Rescue Team and the Los Angeles Police Department SWAT, as well as other specialized units, carry firearms chambered in the .45 Auto.

The U.S. military officially replaced the .45 ACP with the 9mm in 1985, though it continues to have pockets of dedicated users in the service. Operators of the Marine Expeditionary Units, Delta Force and others within the purview of the United States Special Operations Command have the option of using pistols chambered in the .45 ACP.

As a self-defense weapon, in its basic full metal jacket (FMJ) cartridge, the non-expanding .45 Auto is heavy and penetrates deep. The large bullet diameter creates a significant wound, which can damage the central nervous system, circulatory system, and critical organs. Those looking for personal protection may also opt for specialty configurations from a variety of ammunition manufacturers including Hornady, Federal, and Magtech.

Another reason that contributes to the .45 Auto's popularity is its affordability.

When it comes to affordability, make sure to check out our stock of Hornady 45 ACP ammo for more options and price comparison.

Different Types of .45 ACP Ammunition

Like other cartridges, the .45 ACP is available in a range of different types and styles. Some of the most common .45 Auto ammo includes:

  • Full metal jacket (FMJ): .45 FMJ ammo features a lead bullet encased with a copper or other hard metal coating, helping the bullet keep its form until impact. People sometimes refer to these cartridges as full metal case (FMC) ammo.
  • Jacketed hollow point (JHP): .45 ACP JHP ammo also has a lead bullet encased in a hard metal, but instead of a round ball, the bullet has a hollow point inside – which makes it expand on impact, increasing its stopping power.
  • Advanced energy transfer (AET): AET ammo, also called frangible ammunition, looks like standard ammo, but when it hits its target, this bullet fragments into tiny pieces of composite materials (as long as the target is harder than the bullet).
  • Total metal jacket (TMJ): Much like the FMJ, the TMJ features a bullet completely covered in a hard metal. The difference between the two is that FMJ ammo exposes a small amount of lead at the base of the bullet, but TMJ completely covers the bullet – minimizing the shooter’s lead exposure. Check out our Tulammo 45 ACP ammo, Fiocchi 45 ACP ammo and PMC 45 ACP ammo page for more options and cost comparison.

What Are Some Popular .45 ACP Pistols?

While .45 ACP ammo is popular – the guns that fire this ammunition make it so. The Colt M1911 was the first of many .45 caliber pistols that American law enforcement, special forces, and civilians flocked to. Other popular .45 caliber firearms include:

  • Beretta PX4 Storm
  • Smith & Wesson M&P
  • Ruger SR
  • Springfield Armory XD(M)
  • Glock 21
  • Sig Sauer P220

Beyond these semi-automatic pistols, multiple submachine guns have been chambered for the .45 ACP. Reising designed and manufactured a .45 Auto semi-automatic rifle in the 1940s.

Popular .45 ACP Ammo Manufacturers

A wide range of ammunition manufacturers make .45 ACP ammunition. Popular brands include:

Are There Other Types of .45 Cal Ammo?

While the .45 ACP is by far the most popular .45 ammunition, there are others that have been made with this size bullet. Some of the most common calibers are:

  • .45 Colt: The .45 Colt ammunition was designed for the 1873 Peacemaker single-action revolver. Many often wonder about the difference between 45 Colt vs. 45 ACP ammo – the former was a heavy, fast-moving bullet at 255 gr and 900+ fps, and was vital in settling and civilizing the American West. 45 ACP is very similar, with a 230 grain (gr) lead bullet that travels at an impressive 830 feet per second (fps).
  • .45 S&W (Schofield): Designed for the 1875 Smith & Wesson Schofield revolver, this chamber was used heavily during the turn of the century and may have been used by General Custer at the Battle of Little Bighorn. While .45 S&W ammo can be used in most Colt .45 revolvers, .45 Colt ammo should not be used in .45 S&W pistols.
  • .45 Automatic Rimmed (Auto Rim): Because the .45 ACP casing is rimless, it requires a half-moon clip. To solve this problem, a rimmed version, the .45 Auto Rim, was created. While it never caught on in mainstream popularity, those who prefer remanufactured ammunition and .45 caliber for hunting may use it.
  • .45 Glock Auto Pistol (GAP): The .45 GAP is made exclusively for Glock 37s, 38s, and 39s. These cartridges are one-eighth inch shorter than standard .45 ACP ammo, but feature the same performance. This smaller casing allows for a narrow magazine and smaller firearm frame and grip. Along with the pistols chambered for .45 GAP, Glock also offers multiple gun models chambered in .45 ACP.
  • .45 Automatic Short (HP): In some countries, including Italy, France, and Mexico, citizens are not allowed to carry firearms chambered in a military cartridge – which makes any .45 ACP gun illegal. To get around this, the .45 HP has a casing that is 1mm shorter than the standard .45 Auto. Most .45 ACP pistols can be converted to a .45 HP by replacing the standard barrel with a shorter one.
  • .45 Automatic Match: While .45 Automatic Match ammunition features the same chambering and dimensions of .45 ACP ammo, it has a smaller casing with a reduced powder load. These rounds are accurate and used in bullseye target shooting.
  • .45 ABC Mi-Bullet: Created by Advanced Ballistics Concepts, LLC (ABC), the multiple-impact (Mi) bullet is a multi-part ammunition that increases the shooter’s hit probability in a self-defense situation. Featuring a bullet that divides into pieces tethered together like a web, it provides multiple strike points and up to a 10-inch impact diameter.

.45 ACP vs. 9mm Ammunition

For personal defense, law enforcement, and overall efficiency, the battle between .45 ACP and 9mm Luger (or Parabellum) remains intense. While each side has valid points, it should be noted that with practice, both calibers are lethal.

In May 2014, the FBI released a report on their decision to opt for the 9mm over other caliber options, including the .45 ACP. Because of modern ballistic technology, the 9mm’s small cartridge and bullet size didn’t have as large an impact on penetration and stopping power as they had in the past. With today’s ammunition, the 9mm cartridge has grown into a deadly caliber that offers some benefits over the classic .45 Auto.

When all things are factored in, including the cost of ammunition, magazine capacities, and the impact of recoil, many shooters are faster and more accurate with a 9mm than larger caliber cartridges. Yet the .45 ACP offers accuracy and precision that sport shooters have chosen for years.

Remember to check out our Tulammo 45 ACP ammo, Fiocchi 45 ACP ammo and PMC 45 ACP ammo page to compare prices or to get more ammo options.

The unparalleled accuracy, reliability, and carry capacity of a practiced .45 ACP pistol can’t compare to other pistols. Once a shooter gets comfortable with .45 ACP rounds, it quickly becomes their go-to caliber. After more than a century of use, the .45 ACP is a cartridge that has been modified and studied extensively, and is still used all over the world. Today, it remains one of the most prized cartridges on the market and can be found in gun cabinets across the country.

FAQ

What is 45 ACP ammo?

The .45 Automatic Colt Pistol, commonly called the .45 ACP or .45 auto, refers to a handgun cartridge developed by famous American gunsmith John Moses Browning in 1905. This ammo, which measures in at 11.43×23mm, was the standard cartridge for Browning’s Colt semi-automatic pistol. It also became the standard chambering for Colt’s M1911 pistol after going through successful military trials. It is still used by some branches of the military today, as well as many law enforcement officers. It is also a favorite among many American pistol shooters.

What is the best 45 ACP ammo?

The best .45 ACP ammo depends on the shooters needs, purpose, and preferences. For those who are target shooting at the range, they may opt for .45 auto FMJ, or full metal jacket rounds. These bullets are affordable and great for practice. For those who want cheap .45 ACP ammo, consider cartridges with steel casings, while those interested in reloading may want to choose brass shells. Shooters carrying concealed ideally use something with less penetration and more stopping power, like a jacketed hollow point (JHP) cartridge.

What is the best 45 ACP ammo for self-defense?

When using .45 ACP ammo for self defense, consider using jacketed hollow point, or JHP, ammunition. When compared to traditional full metal jacket bullets, the JHP projectiles bring more stopping power and less risk of over penetration, which is always a concern in a self defense scenario. JHP are designed specifically to expand on impact, making them less likely to go through the shooter’s target. Many brands make .45 ACP cartridges specifically for self defense, including Hornady, Federal, and Winchester.

What is the best 45 ACP ammo for target shooting?

When choosing .45 ACP ammunition for target shooting, many shooters opt for full metal jacket (FMJ) rounds. These rounds are affordable and easy to find. For those who engage in competitive target shooting, semi-wadcutter (SWC) rounds may be a better option. SWC ammo creates clean cuts on paper targets, making them easier to judge and score.

What 45 ACP ammo does the military use?

Throughout the years, the US Military has used a variety of .45 ACP ammo. The official Military round is listed as the “Cal. 45 Automatic Pistol Ball Cartridge, Model of 1911.” It is a 1.273 inch cartridge with a 230 grain full metal jacket (FMJ) bullet housed in a brass casing, which was first produced at Frankford Arsenal. The US Armed Forces have used different variations of the .45 Auto over the years, including wadcutter, tracer, and line throwing rounds. Since 2015, the Military has been switching to jacketed hollow point (JHP) cartridges for combat, as they’re more effective and have a greater stopping power than the traditional FMJ.

Is there a difference between 45 Auto and 45 ACP ammo?

No, the .45 Auto and the .45 ACP are different names for the same ammunition. The ACP in .45 ACP stands for Automatic Colt Pistol, which is also what the Auto represents in the term .45 Auto.

Check out our Winchester .45 ACP ammo page for more options!

45 Auto (ACP) Ballistics: Chart of Average 45 Auto (ACP) Ballistics

The .45 ACP cartridge packs more energy than the 9mm and .40 S&W. It’s powerful, yet accurate and controllable. With a low pressure and full powder burn, the round gives its shooter a softer recoil than the other high-bore cartridges like the .357 Magnum and .50 Action Express.

Note: This information comes from the manufacturer and is for informational purposes only. The actual ballistics obtained with your firearm can vary considerably from the advertised ballistics. Also, ballistics can vary from lot to lot with the same brand and type load.

45 Auto (ACP) Bullet WEIGHT Muzzle VELOCITY (fps) Muzzle ENERGY (ft. lbs.) Mid-Range TRAJECTORY (in.) Barrel Length (in.)
  Muzzle 50 yds. 100 yds. Muzzle 50 yds. 100 yds. 50 yds. 100 yds.  
150 Grain 1050 n/a n/a 403 n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a
165 Grain 1030 930 n/a 385 315 n/a 1.2 n/a 5"
165 Grain Guard Dog 1140 1030 950 475 390 335 n/a n/a 5"
185 Grain 1000 940 890 410 360 325 1.1 4.9 5"
185 Grain Match 770 705 650 245 204 175 2 8.7 5"
200 Grain 940 890 840 392 352 312 2 8.6 5"
200 Grain 975 917 860 421 372 328 1.4 5 5"
230 Grain 830 800 675 355 325 300 1.6 6.8 5"
230 Grain 880 846 816 396 366 340 1.5 6.1 5"
165 Grain +P 1250 n/a n/a 573 n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a
185 Grain +P 1140 1040 970 535 445 385 0.9 4 5"
200 Grain +P 1055 982 925 494 428 380 n/a n/a 5"
Molly Carter
Written by
Molly Carter

Customer Reviews

  • Danny said:

    good quality ammo

  • Light-infantry said:

    Firstly, if your looking for great ammo at a cheap price then this is it. Secondly, I’ve shot about 200 rounds and no misfires (might happen if you don’t clean your weapon after every session) some people have no knowledge of PCIs and maintenance. This is well comparable to the high valued rounds with none of the extra cost. Will definitely be buyin again.

  • R said:

    Ran it through a colt 1911 with no problem

  • roxy said:

    I've shot over 500 rnds and can tell you the accuracy is great. Will buy more in the future. Fast delivery at a great price. Reliable and clean burning.

  • Hal said:

    We're about 25 rounds through it with a brand new Springfield mil spec 1911 45 ACP good feel.. no misfires ..everything on Target and I qualified ....the delivery was excellent from the supplier price was right I definitely would recommend these and I will buy them again

  • John said:

    I have only fired 100 rounds so far. 50 each in two different 1911's. Not a single problem.

  • Alvaro said:

    I liked the ammo but in some indoor shooting ranges, they do not allow to use this ammo.

  • SK2 Hutch said:

    For the price this is pretty decent range ammo.

View 5 more
  • Rick said:

    Purchased 50 rounds, but have only shot 18 so far. I've had no problems at all. Shoots nice and clean, and no duds. I love the federal ammo so far. My only knock was on the value....which I dropped down 1 notch. The price for the 50 round box is awesome, but the shipping and handling hurt the value...still when you can't find the ammo you are looking for locally, the shipping and handling isn't much of an issue. Thank You Ammo.com!!!!

  • Rollinrock said:

    pleasure doing business with the site.

  • Walt said:

    Put about 80 of these through a Tac XD over the weekend. No jams, no misfires. All things considered, a pretty good round for the money.

  • Tahitiantreat said:

    shot clean no jams

  • Rocky said:

    Just glad I got it when I did. Prices going up...............if you can even find any. This is a great place to make a purchase when they have what you want & very fast shipping.

  • bud said:

    bought for carry ammo so only shot afew.

View 3 more
  • DC36FORD said:

    I ordered a few thousand rounds of 40cal for several guys in training. The ONLY misfires were due to unclean weapons. Once the weapons were cleaned all worked well. Thanks

  • GaryM1954 said:

    Have been using this ammo in my Springfield 1911 Mil-Spec for quite a while now and haven't had a single malfunction. Will always buy this ammo for range work.

  • rruybal1 said:

    People keep telling me that the Hi-Point handguns are junk! I used this ammo in my 45ACP, I never had any problems and the ammo performed better than I expected.

  • MasterGunny said:

    See above.

  • rehdeer said:

    Shot this through brand new Hi Point Carbine. Functioned flawlessly. Will definetly buy again. Do wish it was available in +P

View 2 more
  • Peter said:

    Great performance for the price. A good value.

  • Rick said:

    Good Rounds and at a "comparatively" reasonable price to other suppliers gauging prices to take full advantage of a Government incited panic.

  • malibu66 said:

    Great target ammo for 1911. Very accurate and clean.

  • jim said:

    great ammo, accurate and does what its designed to

  • Jackson said:

    I ordered the ammo for stock, but had to give it a test round or two, Works great

View 2 more
  • The Badger said:

    Shoot at least twice a month.My Sig 1911enjoys this ammo. And my recently acquired used H-K USP 45c likes it better than Winchester

  • Jim said:

    Thanks for the quick service. This ammo ran flawlessly thru my 1911 gold cup and my grandson's glock. We both fired over 600 rounds each during the handgun course we attended.

  • bit man said:

    great service

  • Bobt said:

    I yet to shoot the ammo I purchased ,I am being very conservative on range time, watching the current market and trying to get a better understanding on what is unfolding before us.God be with you ,I preach the 3 G's..God,Guns and Gold..MOLON LABE... P.S gave ratings for the fact that you are from the great state of Georgia and the soul of America..the South has my heart

View 1 more
  • Daddy d said:

    Okay, first I will just say I ordered one thousand rounds after doing multiple different tests on this round. I found it to expand over .85" with the biggest one expanding just over an inch. Out of all the premium rounds and the generic rounds on the market for non-bonded hollow points in 45, this had the best performance every....single...time. Not to mention it has light recoil. I found its recoil to be on par with steel cased wolf or tulammo. It fed smooth in my glocks, 1911s and even in my tommy gun. I say buy it. Get it and thank ammo.com for this terrific product. I sure do

  • Sr. said:

    AA++ Thank You for the fast service.

  • Robert said:

    The price and availability are only issues right now. Good ammo.

  • Practice said:

    Shot 14 rounds so far to verify cycling. No issues. Will consider this for a carry round. Market is hard and expensive right now.

View 1 more
  • sarge said:

    I have used this in my Glock 21 for duty and it has always performed outstanding, great ammo!

  • Ron G. said:

    The ammo worked perfectly in my Remington R1S. Shipping costs hurt a bit.

  • Rick Frank R said:

    This is no doubt a very good quality ammo. It is also accurate, that is according to the shooter.

  • Dasol said:

    I think the ammo is great! just a bit expensive cuz of handling

View 1 more
  • mike said:

    Cycles good just not as accurate as i would like

  • Fired said:

    3 rounds out of 4 full clips jammed due to casing not being flush at the bullet on my Ruger P90DC. Overall, not bad for the money as a target round.

  • eeffoc said:

    using this brought back memories of being in the marine corps at a time we had to depend on having good ,solid ,reliable ammo. no problems with this at all.

  • Big Daddy said:

    I was impressed with the 45.ammo I purchased. The ammo cycled well in my Wilson CQB.The ammo was clean and performed very well. I would buy this ammo again.

  • harleybuckeye said:

    Seems to hit well. Absolutely zero problems. Will buy it again. Thanks!

  • Dett Hubb said:

    Very pleased and would order again

  • Mike said:

    This is great ammo for Self Defense, this will get the job done. Using solid guns like Kimber in 45 & 10mm, I was able to achieve a level of accuracy at 25 yards with this ammo that I haven't been able to do since my Army days. Firing many 3 round groups at 25 yards, All shots could fit inside the circumference of a Quarter, actually the shots on the target touched and overlapped each other, nice mushrooms, 0 malfunctions and seeing some expand to over an inch, I decided to change over and make this my first "go to" ammo. Thank you Ammo.com

  • Lee said:

    I like the ammo, but not the rising cost of the ammo. No misfires on the ammo in over 500 rounds shot thus far.

  • zinger30-06 said:

    This ammo was purchased for range use. I shoot on average 100 rounds per session at least once a week. I was pleasently surprised at the peformance of the round. I fired 25 rounds at one target and then 25 at a second target. Folded them over each other and the groupings were a close match. My carry pistol is a Colt Defender 1911 and this is perfect practice ammo. I will continue to purchase as it becomes available.

  • Louis said:

    Great ammo with high quality brass, also has large pistol primer if you are interested in reloading. As far as value goes, given the recently inflated prices that accompany such high demand all ammo has become too pricey. That having been said, in relative terms it is a great value. It is my go to ammo for practicing.

  • Louis said:

    This is reliable, clean burning consistent ammo. It cycles perfectly and there were no malfunctions in either my XDM or my Kimber 1911 super carry ultra. It has high quality reloadable brass with large pistol primers. When available this is my go to ammo.

  • Practice said:

    Just purchased this for 1911 range time. Shoots fine through a couple hundred rounds so far with no goofups. Market is up right now so that'll explain overall cost. I'd buy more when the time comes.

View 2 more
  • Java said:

    Not worth the trouble.. My local Wal-Mart sells Remmington/Winchester ammo about the same if not less for my 45auto and 9mm fmj, thank you...

  • Tom said:

    I purchased 5 boxes of S&B .45 ACP 230 grain. Out of the 5 boxes at least one box of 50 were misfires. Primers were hit, did not fire! Contacted S&B about the issue, nothing was done about it. Rounds were fired through my Smith and Wesson 1911 PC which is always on point with other brands of ammo.

  • Hezekiah said:

    Completely happy with my experience. Will recommend to my family and friends.

  • Clinton said:

    Shots were fired down range with no problem. Ammo came in on time and worked great with my 1911 and SW Shield 45 ACP. I will buy again.

  • Ross said:

    Shooting an S&W 1911, I've put 500 rounds down range so far and not a single issue. For the price, it's a great range ammo.

View 1 more
  • Mark said:

    Every cartridge performed as expected.

  • al mcnulty said:

    first time I used Ammo.com. Service is great , I will be back.

  • Tim said:

    Wouldn't buy .45 any other way.

  • William said:

    OUTSTANDING PRODUCT AND TRANSACTION!

View 1 more
  • David W said:

    Performs great in my XDM 3.8! No ftf, jams or any other type of problems!! Great practice ammunition!!!

  • 45acpFan73 said:

    Worked every time with my 672- Sr1911.. some rounds gave extra smoke .... but noFTF

  • Peter said:

    I was 100% satisfied from purchase to range. Thank You Peter

  • Snoopy said:

    My only regret is that i didnt buy more than i did. I was just checking different products. These are great. will place another order in a few minutes. Thanks again. Jim Lewis

  • Thom said:

    I cycled 10 round and they fired each and every time. No jamming even in rapid fire. Will buy more as soon as I get the money.

  • Hymie said:

    You have my business from now on. Will purchase more after obama quits trying to water down my 2nd amendment rights.

  • sarge said:

    Clean firing, no malfunctions. Ammo used to "break in" a new weapon. Accomplished that mission very well, as expected from prior use of CCI ammo.

View 1 more
  • James said:

    great ammo, fast service will do business with again

  • Scott said:

    friend and I fired 100 rounds to break in a new 1911 R1. Loved the gun and the ammo.

  • John said:

    This was a very good deal. Good Quality ammo

  • bud said:

    bought it for practice ammo.good value.no feeding or extracting problems after 100 rnds.

  • John said:

    Will buy again for sure

  • db said:

    great ammmo great site. quick delivery and very covenient

  • Romeo3 said:

    excellent price, service and quick delivery. Just what we all want in a provider. Best part is the price. Next is the fact that you only show what you have in stock, big plus in my book and next is the lightning fast hand off to the UPS guy. I have over 200 rounds already thru my new SR1911 and gun and ammo performed flawlesly, I Shall Return, (remember him).

View 4 more
  • Full moon said:

    Ammunition function fired was accurate all you could ask from any ammo

  • Jp said:

    I have a Kimber pro 45 cal. And the ammo is great with it. No jams, no problems and very consistent. Will definitely be coming back for more. Can't beat these prices for quality ammo.

  • DHENRY said:

    S&B provides a dependable, clean-burning 45acp product. No misfires, duds or squibs. An excellent dollar-value.

  • boo said:

    Bullets is good for ammo price.

  • 4545 said:

    very dependable and accurate in my colt and springfield 45's. no failures of any kind.

  • tcbloodgood4 said:

    Totally performed 100% as expected.

  • mark said:

    EXCELLENT AMMO FOR THE PRICE. WILL BUY AGAIN.

  • DJS said:

    I was impressed with the ammo I purchased for you. The price was right.

  • Dayne said:

    1st time shooting this new pistol, Smith &Wesson, M&P, 4" barrel. 1st was the target ammon to get used to it then full mag of the Remington. Very accurate even in rapid fire. 6 out of 10 in 4" circle. Other 4 within the 6" circle. In other wards, all round placement, terminal.

  • joe said:

    The only thing that could have been better is the price, but with everything that is going on with gun control the price was still acceptable. Thank You and i will be purchasing more in the fucture