45 Colt Ammo For Sale | 45 Long Colt Cowboy & Hunting Loads

45 Colt (45 Long Colt) Ammo For Sale

The .45 Colt — affectionately known as the “.45 Long Colt” — is one of the most
storied cartridges in American history. Introduced in 1873 for the Colt Single
Action Army revolver, it helped define the Old West and remains a favorite today
for cowboy action shooting, self-defense, and even hunting. With its big
.452-caliber bullet, versatile loading range, and deep historical roots, the .45
Colt is a beloved classic that’s just as relevant now as it was 150 years ago. At
Trigger Ammo Store, we carry a full selection of .45 Colt ammunition for revolvers
and lever guns alike.

What Is the 45 Colt?

Adopted in 1873, the .45 Colt was the original cartridge of the legendary Colt
Single Action Army (“Peacemaker”) and the U.S. military sidearm of the frontier
era. It fires a large .452-caliber bullet and earned a fearsome reputation as one
of the most effective handgun cartridges of its day. Over 150 years later, it
endures as a cowboy action staple, a capable self-defense round, and — in modern
strong-framed revolvers and lever rifles — a genuine handgun-hunting cartridge.
Its blend of history, versatility, and big-bore performance keeps it in constant
demand.

Why “45 Long Colt”? The Name Explained

Officially, the cartridge is just the .45 Colt. The nickname
“.45 Long Colt” (or “.45 LC”) arose historically to distinguish
it from the shorter .45 Schofield cartridge also in service at the time. Today
“.45 Colt” and “.45 Long Colt” refer to the exact same cartridge — they are
interchangeable names. Importantly, the .45 Colt is NOT the same
as the .45 ACP (a semi-automatic pistol cartridge) — despite both
being “.45,” they are completely different, non-interchangeable rounds for
different firearms. Always match ammo to your gun’s marked chambering.

What Is 45 Colt Good For?

Cowboy Action Shooting

A cornerstone cowboy action cartridge, the .45 Colt is beloved for
single-action revolvers and lever guns in SASS and Old West shooting.

Self-Defense

With its big .452 bullet and modern defensive loads, the .45 Colt is a capable,
hard-hitting defensive revolver cartridge.

Handgun & Lever Hunting

In modern strong-framed revolvers (like Ruger) and lever-action rifles,
heavier .45 Colt loads are effective on deer and medium game.

Range & Classic Shooting

Smooth-shooting and historic, it’s a joy for recreational and single-action
range time.

A Note on 45 Colt Pressure Levels

Important: .45 Colt ammo comes in different pressure levels. Standard-
pressure loads are safe in all .45 Colt firearms, including older and
replica single-action revolvers. Heavy “Ruger-only” / +P loads
are loaded to much higher pressure for modern strong-framed guns (like Ruger
Blackhawk and some lever rifles) and deliver hunting-level power — but they must
NEVER be used in older, replica, or lower-strength revolvers. Always confirm a
heavy load is rated for your specific firearm before shooting it.

Types of 45 Colt Ammo We Carry

Cowboy / Lead Loads

Soft-shooting lead round nose loads — the classic cowboy action choice.

JHP Self-Defense

Jacketed hollow points for defensive use in a big-bore package.

Heavy / Hunting Loads

Hard-cast and heavy loads (for strong-framed guns only) for hunting and deep
penetration.

Common 45 Colt Bullet Weights

The .45 Colt is loaded with big .452-caliber bullets, most commonly
200–255 grain. The classic 250–255 grain lead
load defines the cartridge’s traditional character, while lighter
200–225 grain loads are popular for cowboy and defensive use.
Heavy hard-cast bullets (for strong-framed guns) can run 300 grain or more for
hunting.

Top 45 Colt Ammo Brands

We stock .45 Colt ammunition from the manufacturers shooters trust, including
Federal, Winchester, Hornady, Remington, Buffalo Bore, Underwood, and Magtech.
From smooth lead cowboy loads to defensive JHP and heavy hunting hard-cast, you’ll
find quality options for single-action revolvers, modern strong-framed guns, and
lever rifles.

Availability & Buying Tips

The .45 Colt has a steady, loyal following, so it’s usually available, though
specialty and heavy loads vary. It pays to buy when you see your preferred load in
stock — match the pressure level to your firearm, grab enough for matches or
season, and set a stock alert so you’re never caught short.

Shipping & Compliance

Orders ship quickly with secure, age-verified delivery in compliance with all
applicable federal, state, and local laws. Because .45 Colt is used in both
handguns and rifles, the stricter age rule may apply — by ordering, you confirm you
are of legal age (21+ where handgun-ammo rules apply) and that it is legal for you
to purchase and receive ammunition at your delivery address. Some states and
localities restrict ammunition shipments — please review your local regulations
before ordering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 45 Colt the same as 45 Long Colt?

Yes — “.45 Colt” and “.45 Long Colt” (or “.45 LC”) are the same cartridge; “Long
Colt” is a historical nickname. It is NOT the same as .45 ACP, which is a different,
non-interchangeable semi-automatic cartridge.

Can I shoot heavy 45 Colt loads in any revolver?

No — heavy “Ruger-only” / +P .45 Colt loads are for modern strong-framed guns
only. Standard-pressure loads are safe in all .45 Colt firearms. Always confirm a
heavy load is rated for your specific gun.