Handgun cartridge reference
.45 Colt Ammunition
Also known as .45 Long Colt, .45 LC.
A frontier-era big-bore still loved for cowboy-action shooting and, in modern revolvers, capable handgun hunting loads.
At a glance
Common firearms in .45 Colt
Frequently asked
How much does .45 Colt cost per round?+
.45 Colt typically runs about $0.80–$1.40 per round online, roughly $1,100 for a 1,000-round case at the middle of that range (as of 2026). Bulk cases lower the per-round cost, while premium defensive or match loads run higher. Prices move with supply, so track your own cost per round over time.
What is .45 Colt used for?+
.45 Colt is most commonly used for cowboy action, hunting, defense. A frontier-era big-bore still loved for cowboy-action shooting and, in modern revolvers, capable handgun hunting loads.
What firearms are chambered in .45 Colt?+
Popular options include Colt SAA, Ruger Vaquero, Henry Big Boy. It falls in the handgun category.
How much does .45 Colt recoil, and is it available?+
.45 Colt has moderate recoil for its class, and availability is currently "moderate." You may need to order it online or from a specialty retailer.
Track your .45 Colt the smart way
Rangium logs your .45 Colt by the round: stock on hand, cost per round and spend over time, with low-stock warnings when you run short. Ask Vanta how much you have left, and list or find .45 Colt firearms in the marketplace.