The 45 Long Colt revolver, often simply referred to as the ".45 Colt" or ".45 Long Colt," is a historic cartridge and firearm combination that has left an indelible mark on the world of firearms. This cartridge and the revolvers designed for it have a rich history, dating back to the late 19th century, and have been favored by many for their power, accuracy, and versatility. In this blog post, we will delve into the origins, specifications, popular models, and modern-day applications of the 45 Long Colt revolver, offering a comprehensive guide to this iconic firearm.

Origins and History

The development of the .45 Long Colt cartridge is intimately tied to the history of the famous Colt Single Action Army (SAA) revolver. In the late 1860s, Colt began work on a new revolver to replace the popular but aging Colt Single Action Army revolver. This new revolver, known as the "New Model Army Metallic Cartridge Revolving Pistol," was designed to fire metallic cartridges, a departure from the traditional cap-and-ball revolvers of the time.

The .45 Long Colt cartridge was developed specifically for this new revolver, with the aim of creating a powerful and reliable cartridge for military use. It was introduced in 1872 and quickly gained popularity among soldiers and law enforcement officers. The cartridge's name, ".45 Long Colt," reflects its caliber (.45) and its longer case compared to other contemporary cartridges.

The Colt Single Action Army revolver, often referred to as the "Peacemaker," became an iconic symbol of the American West. Its association with legendary figures like Wyatt Earp and its use in countless Western films have solidified its place in history. The .45 Long Colt cartridge, with its powerful performance and accuracy, was a perfect match for the rugged and reliable SAA revolver.

Specifications and Performance

The .45 Long Colt cartridge is a rimmed, straight-walled cartridge designed for use in revolvers. It is known for its powerful performance, making it a popular choice for hunting, self-defense, and competitive shooting. Here are some key specifications of the .45 Long Colt cartridge:

• Caliber: .45 (11.43 mm)
• Case Length: 1.62 inches (41.15 mm)
• Bullet Weight: Typically ranges from 200 to 250 grains
• Muzzle Velocity: Varies depending on load and barrel length, but can exceed 1,000 feet per second
• Muzzle Energy: Approximately 400-500 foot-pounds

The .45 Long Colt is renowned for its stopping power and accuracy, especially at shorter ranges. Its heavy bullet weight and relatively low velocity make it an excellent choice for controlled expansion and deep penetration. This combination of power and accuracy has made it a favorite among hunters and sports shooters alike.

Popular Models and Manufacturers

Over the years, several revolver manufacturers have produced models chambered in .45 Long Colt. Some of the most popular and iconic models include:

Colt Single Action Army (SAA)

The Colt SAA, as mentioned earlier, is the iconic revolver that made the .45 Long Colt famous. It has been in production since its introduction in 1873 and remains a highly sought-after firearm among collectors and enthusiasts. The SAA is known for its beautiful craftsmanship, rugged reliability, and historical significance.

Ruger Vaquero

Ruger's Vaquero is a modern take on the classic single-action revolver. It is a popular choice among shooters who appreciate the simplicity and elegance of the single-action design. The Vaquero is known for its accuracy, durability, and affordable price point, making it accessible to a wide range of shooters.

Smith & Wesson Model 625

The Smith & Wesson Model 625 is a modern, stainless steel revolver chambered in .45 Long Colt. It features a 5-inch barrel, adjustable sights, and a six-round capacity. The Model 625 is known for its excellent accuracy and is a favorite among competitive shooters and hunters.

Freedom Arms Model 83

Freedom Arms is known for producing high-quality, powerful revolvers, and the Model 83 is no exception. Chambered in .454 Casull and .45 Long Colt, this revolver is a true powerhouse. It features a robust frame, a 5.5-inch barrel, and adjustable sights, making it a versatile choice for hunting and self-defense.

Modern-Day Applications

While the .45 Long Colt revolver may have its roots in the Old West, it has not lost its relevance in modern times. Here are some of the primary applications of the .45 Long Colt revolver in the present day:

Hunting

The .45 Long Colt is an excellent choice for hunting medium-sized game, such as deer and hogs. Its heavy bullet weight and deep penetration ensure a clean and ethical kill, making it a popular choice among hunters.

Self-Defense

The .45 Long Colt's stopping power and accuracy make it a viable option for self-defense. Its ability to deliver controlled expansion and deep penetration makes it an effective choice for personal protection, especially at close ranges.

Competitive Shooting

The .45 Long Colt is a popular choice in various competitive shooting disciplines, including Cowboy Action Shooting (CAS) and Metallic Silhouette Shooting. Its accuracy and historical significance make it a favorite among shooters who appreciate the tradition and challenge of single-action shooting.

Recreational Shooting

For many shooters, the .45 Long Colt revolver is simply a fun and engaging firearm to shoot. Its powerful recoil, accuracy, and historical connection make it an enjoyable choice for recreational shooting, whether at the range or in the field.

Conclusion

The 45 Long Colt revolver and its namesake cartridge have a rich history and continue to be relevant in modern times. From its origins in the American West to its use in hunting, self-defense, and competitive shooting, the .45 Long Colt has proven its versatility and effectiveness. Whether you're a collector, a hunter, or a competitive shooter, the .45 Long Colt revolver offers a unique and powerful shooting experience that has stood the test of time.