The .45 Colt cartridge, a venerable piece of American firearms history, enjoys a resurgence in popularity, largely driven by Cowboy Action Shooting (CAS). This discipline demands a specific type of ammunition: reliable, accurate, and powerful enough for competition, but not so potent as to damage antique firearms. Within this niche, the 200-grain bullet has become a favorite, offering a balance of performance and practicality. This article delves into the world of 45 Colt Cowboy Action loads, focusing on the popular 200-grain options.
Understanding Cowboy Action Shooting and Ammunition Needs
Cowboy Action Shooting is a fun and challenging sport that pits competitors against each other in a series of timed stages. These stages often involve shooting various firearms, including single-action revolvers, lever-action rifles, and shotguns, at diverse targets. The focus is on speed, accuracy, and the historical context of the Wild West era.
Because of the age and often delicate nature of the firearms used (many are antique or period reproductions), ammunition selection is critical. The loads must be powerful enough for effective competition but gentle enough to avoid damaging the firearms' delicate mechanisms. This is where the 200-grain .45 Colt bullet shines.
The 200 Grain Bullet: A Sweet Spot for CAS
The 200-grain bullet strikes a balance between power and recoil. Heavier bullets deliver more energy, but also greater recoil – potentially slowing down shooters. Lighter bullets offer less recoil but may lack the necessary stopping power at longer ranges. The 200-grain bullet offers a pleasant shooting experience while still delivering sufficient power for CAS competition.
Advantages of 200 Grain Bullets in .45 Colt Cowboy Action Loads:
- Controlled Recoil: Easier to manage and shoot quickly, crucial for speed stages.
- Sufficient Power: Provides adequate energy for accurate hits on targets at typical CAS distances.
- Accuracy: Many shooters report good accuracy with 200-grain bullets in their .45 Colts.
- Wide Availability: A variety of manufacturers produce 200-grain .45 Colt loads specifically designed for CAS.
Considerations:
- Velocity: While adequate, the velocity of 200-grain loads might be lower compared to heavier or lighter options. This is generally not a significant factor in CAS, where distances are shorter.
- Gun Compatibility: Always check your firearm's manual to ensure compatibility with the chosen ammunition. Some older firearms may have tighter tolerances that could create problems.
Popular 45 Colt Cowboy Action Loads (200 Grain)
Several manufacturers specialize in producing high-quality .45 Colt ammunition tailored for Cowboy Action Shooting. While specific loads change with availability, here are some brands commonly associated with reliable 200-grain ammunition:
- Buffalo Bore: Known for its heavier-recoiling hunting rounds, Buffalo Bore also produces milder cowboy action loads often in the 200-grain range. Their attention to quality is well-regarded by many CAS shooters.
- Black Hills Ammunition: Black Hills offers a broad spectrum of ammunition, and their .45 Colt loads often include good options for CAS. They emphasize accuracy and consistency.
- Starline Brass: While not a direct ammunition manufacturer, Starline Brass produces high-quality brass cases. Many handloaders use Starline brass for their 200-grain Cowboy Action loads, ensuring consistent casing performance. Using quality brass is vital to consistent performance and to reduce the chance of malfunctions during competitions.
Table 1: Sample 200 Grain .45 Colt Cowboy Action Load Data (Note: Data varies by manufacturer. Always check the manufacturer's specifications.)
| Manufacturer | Bullet Weight (grains) | Muzzle Velocity (fps) | Approximate Energy (ft-lbs) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Example Brand A | 200 | 850 | 350 | Lead bullet, mild recoil |
| Example Brand B | 200 | 800 | 320 | Lead bullet, soft-shooting |
| Example Brand C | 200 | 820 | 330 | Lead bullet, designed for CAS |
(Please Note: This table uses fictional data for illustrative purposes only. Always consult the manufacturer's website or packaging for accurate and up-to-date information.)
Handloading Your Own 45 Colt Cowboy Action Loads
Many dedicated CAS shooters choose to handload their ammunition. This gives them complete control over the components, allowing them to fine-tune their loads for optimal performance in their specific firearms. Handloading requires specialized tools, knowledge of reloading procedures, and adherence to strict safety guidelines.
Benefits of Handloading:
- Cost Savings: Handloading can be more economical than purchasing factory ammunition, especially over time.
- Customization: Allows for precise control over bullet weight, powder charge, and other factors.
- Component Selection: Handloaders can choose components from different manufacturers, allowing for optimization of different elements of the load.
Safety Precautions: Handloading is inherently dangerous. Improper techniques can lead to serious injury or death. Always consult comprehensive reloading manuals, follow instructions meticulously, and prioritize safety above all else.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right 45 Colt Cowboy Action Load
Selecting the appropriate .45 Colt Cowboy Action load is a crucial aspect of the sport. The 200-grain bullet frequently emerges as a top choice, balancing power, accuracy, and manageable recoil. Whether you prefer factory-loaded ammunition from reputable brands or the precise customization of handloading, selecting a quality load is key to success in Cowboy Action Shooting competitions. Remember to always consult your firearm's manual and heed safety guidelines before handling firearms or ammunition.