The 45 Colt designed in 1872, makes this one old cartridge. The granddad of the Old West at one time was one of the most venerable cartridges known to man. Along came the magnums 357, 44 and then the colossal big bores 454, 460 and 500. With the advent and popularity of the big bore magnums surely the 45 Colt would die a slow painful death, the question remains, is the 45 Colt still useful?
New Ammunition Extends Its Capability
With shops like Buffalo Bore improving upon this cartridge with the 225gr full wadcutter that hits like Thor’s hammer, surely to crush any bone or flesh in its way. To loads like the Sig Sauer 230gr V Crown Hollow Point designed for self-defense. If you are into reloading and own a modern firearm like a Blackhawk or Redhawk you can experience the sinister side of the 45 Colt reaching 1000ft pounds of energy. Though one must be very careful and knowledgeable about this endeavor as the heavy loads will grenade older firearms like the Colt Single Action Army.
Diverse and Still Relevant
One can see that the 45 Colt is still very capable after 147 years of service and remains relevant to this day. Hunting, Self Defense and Cowboy Shooting it doesn’t matter, the 45 Colt is the softest shooting, versatile big bore of the 20th Century.
This round’s a brute, and with the popularity of Judge-style handguns, it’s not going anywhere any time soon.
With the right ammo it should be as good if not better than before.
Great article! It just goes to prove you can teach an old dog a new trick. The .45Colt is as relative today as it was at it’s inception. If you want a big bore that shoots nicely there it is..
I was amazed at the penetration of the Buffalobore 225WC..thank you!