Firearms Facts: The 45 Confusion

Published on February 20, 2019
Duration: 30:57

This video delves into the extensive and often confusing world of .45 caliber cartridges, highlighting historical and modern variations. It explains the differences between cartridges like .45 ACP, .45 GAP, .45 Colt, and .45-70 Government, emphasizing variations in bore/groove diameter, pressure, and application. The presenters stress the importance of understanding these distinctions for safe and effective firearm use, recommending resources for further research.

Quick Summary

The '45 confusion' arises from numerous cartridges sharing the .45 designation but differing in case length, pressure, and projectile diameter. Examples include .45 ACP (semi-auto pistol), .45 Colt (revolver), and .45-70 Government (rifle), with variations like .45 GAP and .454 Casull adding complexity. Understanding these differences is crucial for safe and effective firearm use.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main confusion surrounding .45 caliber firearms?

The primary confusion with .45 caliber firearms stems from the wide variety of cartridges that share the '45' designation but differ significantly in case size, pressure, projectile diameter, and intended use. This includes cartridges like .45 ACP, .45 GAP, .45 Colt, .45-70 Government, and many others, each with unique characteristics and historical contexts.

Can .45 Colt ammunition be fired in a .454 Casull revolver?

Yes, generally .45 Colt ammunition can be safely fired in a firearm chambered for .454 Casull. This is because .454 Casull is a higher-pressure cartridge, and firearms designed for it are built to withstand those pressures, making them robust enough for the lower-pressure .45 Colt rounds.

What is the difference between .450 Bushmaster and .458 SOCOM?

.450 Bushmaster uses a .452 diameter projectile and is designed for AR-15 platforms, offering good power in a short-action rifle. .458 SOCOM uses a larger .458 diameter projectile, also for AR platforms, and is known for its flexibility with heavier bullets and subsonic capabilities.

Why is .45-70 Government ammunition pressure so variable?

The pressure variability of .45-70 Government ammunition is due to the wide range of firearms it's chambered in. Older firearms like the Trapdoor Springfield have low pressure limits (around 23,000 PSI), while modern, strong actions can safely handle much higher pressures (up to 50,000 PSI), allowing for significantly more powerful loads.

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