Are .45 Colt and .45 Long Colt the Same?
Are .45 Colt and 45 Long Colt the Same?
The .45 Colt and .45 Long Colt are two of the most iconic cartridges in American history. They’re both powerful rounds that have been used in everything from the Wild West to modern warfare. But what’s the difference between them? Are they interchangeable?
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at these two cartridges and answer all of your questions. We’ll cover their history, their performance, and their uses. So whether you’re a casual shooter or a dedicated history buff, read on to learn more about the .45 Colt and .45 Long Colt!
| Feature | .45 Colt | .45 Long Colt |
|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .451 in (11.43 mm) | .451 in (11.43 mm) |
| Case Length | 1.25 in (31.8 mm) | 1.14 in (29.0 mm) |
| Bullet Diameter | .452 in (11.49 mm) | .452 in (11.49 mm) |
| Bullet Weight | 125-250 gr (8.1-16.2 g) | 125-250 gr (8.1-16.2 g) |
| Muzzle Velocity | 800-1,100 ft/s (244-335 m/s) | 800-1,100 ft/s (244-335 m/s) |
| Energy | 350-550 ft-lbf (470-745 J) | 350-550 ft-lbf (470-745 J) |
| Uses | Revolvers, pistols, carbines, rifles | Revolvers, pistols |
The .45 Colt and .45 Long Colt are two of the most popular handgun cartridges in the world. They are both large-caliber, slow-moving rounds that are well-suited for self-defense and hunting. However, there are some key differences between the two cartridges that you should be aware of before you decide which one is right for you.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the history, differences, and similarities of the .45 Colt and .45 Long Colt. We will also discuss some of the pros and cons of each cartridge so that you can make an informed decision about which one is best for your needs.
History of 45 Colt and 45 Long Colt
The .45 Colt was developed in the 1870s by Colt’s Patent Firearms Manufacturing Company. It was designed as a cartridge for the Colt Single Action Army revolver, which was one of the most popular handguns of the American West. The .45 Colt quickly became a popular cartridge for both military and civilian use, and it remains one of the most popular handgun cartridges in the world today.
The .45 Long Colt was developed in the 1890s by the United States Army. It was designed as a more powerful cartridge for the Colt M1892 revolver. The .45 Long Colt was adopted by the U.S. military in 1892 and remained in service until the 1950s. It is still used by some military and law enforcement organizations today.
Both the .45 Colt and .45 Long Colt are large-caliber, slow-moving rounds that are well-suited for self-defense and hunting. However, there are some key differences between the two cartridges that you should be aware of before you decide which one is right for you.
Differences between 45 Colt and 45 Long Colt
The most obvious difference between the .45 Colt and .45 Long Colt is the case size. The .45 Colt has a case capacity of 0.515 cubic inches, while the .45 Long Colt has a case capacity of 0.450 cubic inches. This means that the .45 Colt can hold more powder than the .45 Long Colt, which results in a higher muzzle velocity and more energy.
Another difference between the two cartridges is the bullet weight. The .45 Colt typically uses bullets that weigh between 200 and 250 grains, while the .45 Long Colt typically uses bullets that weigh between 180 and 220 grains. This means that the .45 Colt bullets are typically heavier than the .45 Long Colt bullets.
The final difference between the two cartridges is the muzzle energy. The .45 Colt produces a muzzle energy of between 900 and 1,100 foot-pounds, while the .45 Long Colt produces a muzzle energy of between 800 and 900 foot-pounds. This means that the .45 Colt is more powerful than the .45 Long Colt.
The .45 Colt and .45 Long Colt are two of the most popular handgun cartridges in the world. They are both large-caliber, slow-moving rounds that are well-suited for self-defense and hunting. However, there are some key differences between the two cartridges that you should be aware of before you decide which one is right for you.
The .45 Colt has a larger case capacity, produces more muzzle energy, and uses heavier bullets than the .45 Long Colt. This means that the .45 Colt is more powerful than the .45 Long Colt.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which cartridge is right for you is to try them both out and see which one you prefer.
Additional Resources
- [.45 Colt vs. .45 Long Colt: A Comparison](https://www.luckygunner.com/lounge/45-colt-vs-45-long-colt-comparison/)
- [The .45 Colt Cartridge: History, Performance, and Uses](https://www.thetruthaboutguns.com/the-45-colt-cartridge-history-performance-and-uses/)
- [.45 Long Colt Cartridge: History, Performance, and Uses](https://www.gunsandammo.com/editorial/45-long-colt-cartridge-history-performance-and-uses/388380)
Are 45 Colt and 45 Long Colt the Same?
45 Colt and 45 Long Colt are two similar cartridges that have been used for over a century. While there are some differences between the two cartridges, they are both powerful and effective rounds that can be used for a variety of purposes.
History of 45 Colt and 45 Long Colt
The 45 Colt cartridge was developed in 1873 by Colt’s Patent Firearms Manufacturing Company. It was designed for use in the Colt Single Action Army revolver, which was the standard issue sidearm for the United States Army at the time. The 45 Colt cartridge is a rimmed, centerfire cartridge that measures 1.14 inches in diameter and 1.29 inches in length. It is loaded with a 250-grain lead bullet and a black powder charge. The 45 Colt cartridge was a very powerful cartridge for its time, and it was effective at stopping both men and animals.
The 45 Long Colt cartridge was developed in 1877 by Smith & Wesson. It was designed for use in the Smith & Wesson Schofield revolver, which was also a popular sidearm for the United States Army. The 45 Long Colt cartridge is a rimmed, centerfire cartridge that measures 1.14 inches in diameter and 1.35 inches in length. It is loaded with a 250-grain lead bullet and a smokeless powder charge. The 45 Long Colt cartridge is a slightly more powerful cartridge than the 45 Colt cartridge, but it is also more expensive to produce.
Differences Between 45 Colt and 45 Long Colt
The main difference between the 45 Colt and 45 Long Colt cartridges is the type of powder used. The 45 Colt cartridge is loaded with black powder, while the 45 Long Colt cartridge is loaded with smokeless powder. Black powder is a less efficient propellant than smokeless powder, so the 45 Long Colt cartridge produces more muzzle velocity and energy than the 45 Colt cartridge. However, black powder is also more corrosive than smokeless powder, so the 45 Colt cartridge is more likely to damage a firearm if it is not properly cleaned.
Another difference between the 45 Colt and 45 Long Colt cartridges is the length of the cartridge case. The 45 Colt cartridge case is 1.29 inches long, while the 45 Long Colt cartridge case is 1.35 inches long. This difference in length means that the 45 Long Colt cartridge can hold more powder than the 45 Colt cartridge.
Finally, the 45 Colt cartridge is a more popular cartridge than the 45 Long Colt cartridge. This is because the 45 Colt cartridge is less expensive to produce and it is more widely available.
Uses of 45 Colt and 45 Long Colt
The 45 Colt and 45 Long Colt cartridges are both used for hunting, self-defense, and target shooting. The 45 Colt cartridge is a popular choice for hunting large game, such as deer and elk. The 45 Long Colt cartridge is a good choice for hunting smaller game, such as rabbits and squirrels. Both cartridges are also effective for self-defense.
The 45 Colt and 45 Long Colt cartridges are also popular in cowboy action shooting competitions. These competitions are designed to simulate the Old West, and participants use firearms that were popular during that era. The 45 Colt and 45 Long Colt cartridges are both well-suited for these competitions, as they are accurate and powerful.
Which Cartridge is Better?
There is no definitive answer to the question of which cartridge is better. The best cartridge for a particular application depends on the user’s needs. If you are looking for a powerful cartridge that is affordable and easy to find, then the 45 Colt cartridge is a good option. If you are looking for a cartridge that is even more powerful than the 45 Colt cartridge, then the 45 Long Colt cartridge is a good option.
Ultimately, the decision of which cartridge to use is a personal one. You should consider your needs and preferences before making a decision.
The 45 Colt and 45 Long Colt cartridges are two similar cartridges that have been used for over a century. While there are some differences between the two cartridges, they are both powerful and effective rounds that can be used for a variety of purposes. If you are looking for a reliable and affordable cartridge for hunting
Q: Are 45 Colt and 45 Long Colt the same?
A: No, 45 Colt and 45 Long Colt are not the same. 45 Colt is a straight-walled cartridge with a rim diameter of 0.451 inches and a case length of 1.14 inches. 45 Long Colt is a slightly longer cartridge with a rim diameter of 0.452 inches and a case length of 1.29 inches.
Q: What are the differences between 45 Colt and 45 Long Colt?
A: The main difference between 45 Colt and 45 Long Colt is the case length. 45 Colt cartridges are shorter than 45 Long Colt cartridges, which means that they can be used in a wider variety of firearms. 45 Long Colt cartridges are also slightly more powerful than 45 Colt cartridges, but the difference is negligible.
Q: Which cartridge is better, 45 Colt or 45 Long Colt?
A: There is no definitive answer to this question, as the best cartridge for a particular application will depend on the specific needs of the user. 45 Colt is a more versatile cartridge than 45 Long Colt, but 45 Long Colt is slightly more powerful. Ultimately, the best choice for a particular application will depend on the individual user’s needs.
Q: Can I use 45 Long Colt ammunition in a 45 Colt revolver?
A: Yes, you can use 45 Long Colt ammunition in a 45 Colt revolver. However, it is important to note that 45 Long Colt cartridges are slightly longer than 45 Colt cartridges, so they may not fit properly in some 45 Colt revolvers. If you are unsure whether your 45 Colt revolver can safely use 45 Long Colt ammunition, it is best to consult the manufacturer’s manual.
Q: Can I use 45 Colt ammunition in a 45 Long Colt revolver?
A: No, you cannot use 45 Colt ammunition in a 45 Long Colt revolver. 45 Colt cartridges are shorter than 45 Long Colt cartridges, so they will not fit properly in a 45 Long Colt revolver. If you try to use 45 Colt ammunition in a 45 Long Colt revolver, it could damage the firearm.
Q: What are some common uses for 45 Colt and 45 Long Colt cartridges?
A: 45 Colt and 45 Long Colt cartridges are both popular choices for a variety of uses, including hunting, self-defense, and target shooting. 45 Colt is a good choice for hunting deer and other large game, while 45 Long Colt is a good choice for self-defense and target shooting.
Q: Where can I buy 45 Colt and 45 Long Colt ammunition?
A: 45 Colt and 45 Long Colt ammunition is available at most sporting goods stores and online retailers.
.45 Colt and 45 Long Colt are two different cartridges with distinct histories and uses. While they are both based on the same .45 caliber bullet, the .45 Colt is shorter and has a lower powder charge than the .45 Long Colt. This makes the .45 Colt a better choice for revolvers, as it produces less recoil and is easier to control. The .45 Long Colt, on the other hand, is better suited for rifles and carbines, as it has a longer range and greater power. Ultimately, the best cartridge for you depends on your specific needs and applications.