45 Super - Is It Better Than 45 ACP? Let's find out!

Published on May 9, 2022
Duration: 18:03

This guide details a comparative analysis between .45 ACP and .45 Super calibers, drawing on expert insights from Mrgunsngear. It covers the technical distinctions, ammunition selection, and performance testing through velocity and ballistic gel evaluations. The analysis concludes by assessing the practical applications and necessity of .45 Super's increased power for various self-defense and hunting scenarios.

Quick Summary

.45 Super ammunition is a higher-pressure variant of .45 ACP, utilizing thicker brass to safely handle pressures up to 40,000 PSI, compared to .45 ACP's 20,000 PSI. This results in higher velocities and energy, offering deeper penetration and more aggressive expansion, making it suitable for specialized threats but often considered overkill for standard self-defense scenarios.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: HK Mark 23 & .45 Super
  2. 00:48Technical Differences: .45 ACP vs. .45 Super
  3. 03:25Ammunition Selection for Testing
  4. 05:18Chronograph Testing Results
  5. 06:55Ballistic Gel Testing
  6. 13:05Conclusion and Analysis

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main differences between .45 ACP and .45 Super ammunition?

.45 Super is a higher-pressure variant of .45 ACP, featuring thicker brass to safely handle pressures around 35,000-40,000 PSI, compared to .45 ACP's approximately 20,000 PSI. This results in higher velocities and energy for .45 Super.

Can standard .45 ACP firearms safely fire .45 Super ammunition?

Generally, no. Most firearms chambered in .45 ACP are not designed for the higher pressures of .45 Super. Firearms like the HK Mark 23 are exceptions, with manufacturers stating they can handle .45 Super without modification, often requiring a fully supported chamber and heavier recoil spring.

What are the practical advantages of .45 Super over .45 ACP?

.45 Super offers significantly increased velocity and energy, leading to deeper penetration and more aggressive expansion in ballistic media. This makes it more suitable for defense against large animals or situations requiring maximum terminal ballistics.

Is .45 Super necessary for everyday self-defense?

While .45 Super is ballistically superior, its necessity for typical human threats is debated. Many experts suggest that standard .45 ACP loads, or other common calibers, provide adequate stopping power, and the increased recoil and cost of .45 Super may not be justified for everyday carry.

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