The Unstoppable .45 Colt
The .45 Colt, also known as the .45 Long Colt, is a handgun cartridge that has been in use since the late 19th century. It is one of the most popular and versatile handgun cartridges ever developed, and it is still widely used today in both firearms and reloading applications.
The .45 Colt was developed in 1873 by Colt’s Manufacturing Company as a more powerful cartridge for the Colt Single Action Army revolver. It quickly became the standard cartridge for the US Army and remained so until the adoption of the .45 ACP cartridge in 1911.
The .45 Colt is a large-bore, slow-burning cartridge that is well-suited for use in revolvers and lever-action rifles. It is also a popular choice for hunters and target shooters. The cartridge is available in a variety of bullet weights and styles, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.
Here are some of the key features of the .45 Colt cartridge:
– Large bore diameter (.452 inches)
– Slow-burning powder
– High energy
– Good accuracy
– Versatile
Specifications
| Characteristic | Value |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .452 inches |
| Case length | 1.285 inches |
| Overall length | 1.600 inches |
| Powder charge | 40 grains |
| Velocity | 950 feet per second |
| Energy | 500 foot-pounds |
The Powerful .44 Magnum
The .44 Magnum, introduced in 1955 by Smith & Wesson, is a powerful cartridge renowned for its versatility and effectiveness in various shooting applications. Its colossal size and hard-hitting performance have made it a popular choice among hunters, self-defense enthusiasts, and competitive shooters.
Notable Revolvers Chambered in .44 Magnum
Several reputable manufacturers have crafted exceptional revolvers chambered in .44 Magnum. Here are some noteworthy examples:
- Smith & Wesson Model 29: The iconic “Dirty Harry” revolver, known for its rugged durability and timeless design.
- Ruger Redhawk: A robust and reliable revolver with a solid frame construction and precise trigger.
- Taurus Raging Judge: A unique revolver that can fire both .44 Magnum and .410 shotshells, providing versatility for both hunting and self-defense.
Ruger Super Redhawk: An Apex Predator
The Ruger Super Redhawk is among the most formidable revolvers chambered in .44 Magnum. Its massive, all-steel frame and beefy barrel can withstand the punishing recoil of the powerful cartridge. This rugged revolver features a crisp trigger pull and excellent accuracy, making it a top choice for hunters pursuing big game and seasoned shooters seeking a high-performance firearm.
| Ruger Super Redhawk |
|---|
| Caliber: .44 Magnum |
| Barrel Length: 7.5 inches or 9.5 inches |
| Capacity: 7 rounds |
| Trigger Pull: 4.5 pounds (average) |
