What is 45 ACP Hollow Point Ammunition?
.45 ACP Hollow Point ammunition is a popular choice for self-defense and tactical applications. The .45 ACP cartridge, developed by John Browning in 1904, is known for its stopping power and reliability. Hollow Point (HP) bullets are designed to expand upon impact, creating a larger wound channel and transferring more energy to the target. This makes them highly effective for stopping threats quickly.
Key Features of 45 ACP Hollow Point
- Stopping Power: The .45 ACP delivers significant energy transfer, making it one of the most effective rounds for self-defense.
- Expansion: Hollow Point bullets expand upon impact, increasing their diameter and creating larger wound channels.
- Reduced Over-Penetration: The expansion also reduces the risk of over-penetration, making it safer for home defense.
Performance of 45 ACP Hollow Point
Ballistics and Terminal Performance
The performance of 45 ACP Hollow Point ammunition is characterized by its proven effectiveness in combat and self-defense scenarios. Here’s a breakdown of its key ballistic attributes:
| Attribute | 45 ACP Hollow Point |
|---|---|
| Typical Bullet Weight | 185-230 grains |
| Muzzle Velocity | ~850-1,000 fps |
| Effective Range | Up to 50 yards |
| Energy Retention | High energy transfer |
| Expansion Diameter | ~0.70-0.90 inches |
45 ACP Hollow Point Real-World Applications
- Self-Defense: The combination of stopping power and reduced over-penetration makes 45 ACP Hollow Point ideal for personal protection.
- Law Enforcement: Many law enforcement agencies use 45 ACP Hollow Point for its reliability and effectiveness in stopping threats.
- Home Defense: Its performance in close-quarters scenarios makes it a top choice for home defense.
Check Out Apex Ordnance’s .45 ACP Hollow Point and 45 Auto Hollow Point
While 45 ACP Hollow Point is excellent for self-defense, Apex Ordnance also specializes in high-quality 45 ACP Hollow Point ammunition. Our veteran-owned business is dedicated to providing reliable and accurate ammunition for all your shooting needs.
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36 % OFFCor-Bon Self Defense 45 ACP +P 185 gr Jacketed Hollow Point (JHP) 20 Bx/ 25 Cs
Cor-Bon's tried and tested Jacketed Hollowpoint ammunition provides reliable penetration and expansion through high velocity and exclusively designed components. Features explosive expansion for tremendous shocking power and immediate stopping power.
$18.56 $28.95View DetailsIn Stock
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38 % OFFNosler Match Grade 45 ACP 230 gr Jacketed Hollow Point (JHP) 20 Bx/ 10 Cs
Match Grade ammunition using Nosler brass and bullets, manufactured to strict quality standards for optimum performance. Each round is visually inspected and polished.
$13.59 $21.95View DetailsIn Stock
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37 % OFFS&B 45 ACP 230GR FMJ-RN 50RD 20BX/CS
This is excellent ammo for practice, recreational shooters, serious competitive handgun shooting sports, Bullseye competitors shooting, action pistol shooting matches and silhouette shooters. Also a excellent home defense round.
$18.91 $29.95View DetailsIn Stock
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33 % OFFS&B 45ACP 165GR XRG 25/1000
Sellier & Bellot XRG, 45 ACP, 165 Grain, Jacketed Hollow Point, 25 Round Box
$18.61 $27.95View DetailsIn Stock
Shop All 45 ACP Hollow Point Ammunition From Apex Ordnance
Cost of 45 ACP Hollow Point
The cost of 45 ACP Hollow Point ammunition can vary depending on the brand, quality, and quantity purchased. On average, you can expect to pay between $0.50 and $1.50 per round. While it is more expensive than Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) rounds, the added cost is justified by its superior performance in self-defense scenarios.
Cost Comparison
| Ammunition Type | Average Cost per Round |
|---|---|
| 45 ACP Hollow Point | $0.50 - $1.50 |
| 45 ACP FMJ | $0.30 - $0.60 |
Ideal Firearms for 45 ACP Hollow Point
Popular Firearms
- 1911 Platform: Known for its reliability and accuracy, the 1911 is a classic choice for 45 ACP.
- Glock 21: A modern polymer-framed pistol that offers high capacity and reliability.
- Smith & Wesson M&P45: A versatile and ergonomic option for both self-defense and tactical use.
Considerations When Choosing a .45 ACP Firearm
- Recoil Management: The 45 ACP generates significant recoil, so choose a firearm with good ergonomics and recoil management features.
- Magazine Capacity: Consider the magazine capacity, especially for self-defense scenarios where multiple rounds may be necessary.
- Reliability: Ensure the firearm is known for reliability, as malfunctions can be critical in self-defense situations.
Pros and Cons of 45 ACP Hollow Point
Advantages
- Stopping Power: The 45 ACP delivers significant energy transfer, making it highly effective for stopping threats.
- Reliable Expansion: Hollow Point bullets expand consistently, creating larger wound channels.
- Reduced Over-Penetration: The expansion reduces the risk of over-penetration, making it safer for home defense.
Disadvantages
- Cost: 45 ACP Hollow Point is more expensive than FMJ rounds.
- Recoil: The 45 ACP generates significant recoil, which can be challenging for some shooters.
- Magazine Capacity: Typically lower than smaller calibers like 9mm. Consider this when choosing between 45 ACP and 9mm.
Practical Applications of 45 ACP Hollow Point
Self-Defense
The 45 ACP Hollow Point is a top choice for self-defense due to its stopping power and reliable expansion. It is effective in stopping threats quickly, making it a reliable option for personal protection.
Home Defense
For home defense, the reduced risk of over-penetration makes 45 ACP Hollow Point a safer choice. It minimizes the risk of collateral damage while still providing effective stopping power.
Law Enforcement
Many law enforcement agencies use 45 ACP Hollow Point for its reliability and effectiveness in stopping threats. Its performance in real-world scenarios has been proven time and time again.