A Comparison Between .45 Colt and .44 Magnum: Power and Capability

Introduction

When choosing between .45 Colt and .44 Magnum, it's important to consider their power, velocity, and capabilities. Both rounds are well-known for their effectiveness in various shooting scenarios. This article delves into the specifics of each, comparing their power, muzzle velocity, and other key factors.

Muzzle Velocity and Power

When it comes to muzzle velocity, both rounds offer significant firepower. The .44 Magnum, with a 240 grain jacketed hollow point, can achieve a muzzle velocity ranging from 1018 feet/second to over 1500 feet per second (fps), according to the Hodgdon Powder reloading data. Similarly, the .45 Colt, also loaded with a 240 grain bullet, can reach a muzzle velocity from 1028 fps to 1532 fps, as per the data from Ruger Freedom Arms and Thompson Center arms. However, it's important to note that these velocities and pressures are limited by the specific handguns being used and the loads being employed.

The .44 Magnum is generally capable of higher velocities and pressures in comparable handguns, making it a more powerful round for many shooting applications. In terms of factory ammunition, the .44 Magnum typically offers greater energy due to the higher pressures it can achieve. The .45 Colt, on the other hand, is a lower-pressure black powder cartridge that has been adapted for smokeless powder. This means it may not reach the same velocities as the .44 Magnum in all scenarios.

Hand Load vs Factory Rounds

Hand load testing can reveal that the .45 Colt and .44 Magnum can be more comparable. For instance, with a Ruger .45 Super Black Hawk and custom loadings, the .45 Colt can approach the velocity and pressure of the .44 Magnum, making them nearly equal in power.

Selection of Bullets and Brass

The .44 Magnum enjoys a wider selection of bullet types, weights, and configurations, which can be advantageous for different shooting scenarios. This diversity means that shooters have more options to tailor their ammunition to specific needs. The .45 Colt, while having a better selection of stronger brass, is still limited in comparison to the .44 Magnum.

Historical and Evolutionary Context

The .45 Colt is a lower-pressure black powder cartridge that has carried over into the smokeless era. It is not capable of operating at the same pressures as the .44 Magnum, which in turn is an evolution of the .44 Special, itself an evolution of the .44 Russian black powder cartridge. This comparative history helps to understand the differing capabilities and limitations of each cartridge.

Conclusion

When comparing the .45 Colt and .44 Magnum, it's clear that the .44 Magnum generally delivers higher muzzle velocities and greater pressures, making it the more powerful round in standard conditions. However, for those who are interested in hand loading or using more modern firearms, the .45 Colt can be nearly as powerful. The choice between these rounds ultimately depends on the specific shooting requirements and the preferences of the shooter.