.45 ACP
A big, slow push rather than a snap — beloved by 1911 devotees, though 9mm's capacity and cost advantages have made .45 the traditionalist's choice.
Family
Handgun
Introduced
1905
Origin
John Browning, Colt, USA
Military
Cartridge, Caliber .45, Ball, M1911
History
John Browning designed the .45 ACP around 1904-1905 for what became the Colt M1911, adopted by the US Army in 1911 after cavalry trials favored a big .45-caliber bullet. It served American forces through both world wars, Korea, and Vietnam. Its pairing with the 1911 platform made it an enduring icon of American shooting culture.
What it's used for
Iconic platforms
The 1911 in all its forms, Glock 21, HK USP45, Smith & Wesson M&P 45, and the Thompson submachine gun of history.
Common load types
230-grain FMJ 'hardball,' jacketed hollow point carry loads, and lighter match wadcutter-style target loads.
Reference only — not loading data, not ballistics advice, and KitID links to no ammunition sellers. Know your local law before you buy anything that goes bang.