Can You Shoot .45 ACP Out of a .45 LC? A Detailed Look at Cartridge Compatibility
The short answer is: no, you should not shoot .45 ACP ammunition in a .45 Colt (LC) firearm. While the calibers may seem similar and even share a similar diameter, crucial differences exist that make this a dangerous practice. Attempting to do so can lead to serious injury, firearm damage, or even death.
Let's delve into the specifics to understand why this is a critical safety precaution:
Understanding the Differences Between .45 ACP and .45 Colt
Both .45 ACP (Automatic Colt Pistol) and .45 Colt (LC for Long Colt) are relatively large-caliber cartridges, but they differ significantly in their case dimensions and pressure levels:
-
Case Length: The .45 Colt cartridge is considerably longer than the .45 ACP cartridge. This means a .45 ACP round will fit into the chamber of a .45 Colt revolver, but it will not fully seat. The unsupported case of the .45 ACP can then bulge or rupture under the pressure of firing, leading to catastrophic failure.
-
Case Shape & Rim: While the bullet diameters are similar, the case shape differs slightly. The .45 Colt has a significantly larger rim diameter than the .45 ACP. This difference is critical for proper extraction and ejection in firearms designed for .45 Colt. Attempting to fire a .45 ACP in a .45 Colt firearm might cause the round to become jammed in the chamber.
-
Pressure: .45 Colt ammunition operates at higher pressures than .45 ACP. While a .45 ACP round might fire in a .45 Colt revolver (risking catastrophic failure), the weaker .45 ACP case is not designed to withstand the higher pressures it will experience in a .45 Colt chamber.
Risks of Shooting .45 ACP in a .45 LC Firearm
The risks associated with this practice are substantial and should never be taken lightly:
-
Case Rupture: The most significant risk is a cartridge case rupture. The unsupported case of the .45 ACP may fail under the pressure of firing in a .45 Colt chamber, potentially causing injury from escaping hot gases and fragments of the cartridge.
-
Chamber Damage: The improper fit of the .45 ACP round in the .45 Colt chamber can damage the firearm's chamber and other components. This damage could render the weapon unusable or potentially dangerous to fire.
-
Bullet Obstruction: The shorter length of the .45 ACP cartridge might lead to inadequate bullet seating, potentially obstructing the barrel and causing a squib load or other malfunctions.
-
Injury and Death: These malfunctions can result in serious injury or death to the shooter and those in the vicinity.
Conclusion: Safety First
Always ensure you are using the correct ammunition for your firearm. Never attempt to shoot a .45 ACP cartridge in a firearm designed for .45 Colt ammunition. The risks associated with doing so far outweigh any perceived benefit. Consult your firearm's manual for detailed specifications on the proper type and use of ammunition. If you are unsure about any aspect of firearm safety, seek expert advice from a qualified firearms instructor. Remember, firearm safety should always be your top priority.
