45 Colt Ammunition

A joint effort between Colt and the Union Metallic Cartridge Company led to the introduction of the 45 Colt in 1873. Developed for the Colt Model 1873 Single Action Army, the 45 Colt served as the official handgun cartridge of the Army until 1892.

Original black powder loads developed around 560 foot-pounds of muzzle energy. Introduced as the 45 Colt, its name was changed to 45 Long Colt during the late 1800s to distinguish it from the 45 Smith & Wesson Schofield. First chambered in the Colt 1873 Single Action Army, the 45 Long Colt has become one of the most famous revolver cartridges of all time.

Standard loads for the 45 Long Colt feature a 255-grain lead bullet moving over 900 feet per second. Some specialty manufacturers offer loads with heavier bullets at significantly higher pressures for modern revolvers such as the Ruger Blackhawk.

The 45 Long Colt has been in production since 1873, and its future looks bright. What a great addition to the Cartridge Hall of Fame.