45 COLT Revolvers

Why Choose a .45 Colt Revolver?

The .45 Colt cartridge, sometimes called the .45 Long Colt, was introduced in 1872. Developed for the Colt Single Action Army revolver, it quickly became one of the most popular revolver cartridges of its era. Early .45 Colt ammunition used black powder before transitioning to smokeless powder, with modern factory loads ranging from mild target rounds to heavier hunting options.

Today, the .45 Colt remains a favorite among cowboy action shooters, single action revolver enthusiasts, and handgun hunters. Modern revolvers chambered for the cartridge include traditional single action designs as well as heavy-frame models built to handle higher pressure loads.

Browse .45 Colt Revolvers by Brand

Vance Outdoors carries .45 Colt revolvers in classic single action designs and modern double action models across a range of manufacturers.

• Colt: The Colt Single Action Army is one of the most recognizable .45 Colt revolver designs, with classic styling and select configurations featuring a walnut grip.
• Ruger: Ruger builds .45 Colt models such as the Blackhawk and Vaquero, including durable single action revolvers suited to a range of shooting applications.
• Smith & Wesson: Smith & Wesson chambers the Governor in .45 Colt, a double action revolver that also accepts .45 ACP and .410 shotshells.
• Taurus: The Taurus Judge lineup includes .45 Colt revolvers capable of chambering both .45 Colt and .410 shotshells in several configurations.
• Uberti: Uberti specializes in classic single action revolvers, with .45 Colt models such as the 1873 Cattleman popular among cowboy action shooters and collectors.

Shop Vance Outdoors Online or In Store

Vance Outdoors is your source for .45 Colt revolvers, ammunition, and shooting accessories. Our selection covers single action reproductions, modern double action models, and heavy-frame revolvers built for hunting and higher pressure loads. Visit any of our five Ohio locations to handle these firearms in person or browse the full selection online. All firearm purchases require a background check in accordance with federal and state law.

FAQs

What is the difference between .45 Colt and .45 Long Colt?

They refer to the same cartridge. The .45 Colt name is sometimes expanded to .45 Long Colt to distinguish it from the shorter .45 Schofield and .45 ACP rounds. However, Colt cartridge headstamps and factory ammo typically list the caliber simply as .45 Colt.

Can .45 Colt revolvers shoot heavy or hunting loads?

It depends on the revolver. Some modern heavy-frame models are built for higher pressure loads, including hunting ammunition with cast bullets or hard cast projectiles. Traditional single action reproductions are generally better suited to lighter or standard pressure factory loads. Always follow the ammunition specifications for the specific firearm.

What barrel lengths do .45 Colt revolvers come in?

.45 Colt revolvers come in several barrel lengths, including shorter barrel options that are easier to carry. Longer barrels can provide higher velocity and a longer sight radius for hunting or target shooting.

How do I choose the right .45 Colt load for my revolver?

Match the Colt load to your specific revolver and its pressure rating, and never exceed what the Colt cylinder is rated to handle. Heavy-frame models accept a wider range of loads than traditional single action reproductions.

Are .45 Colt revolvers available in double action models?

Yes. Along with classic single action designs, Smith & Wesson offers double action .45 Colt revolvers like the Governor, giving shooters an option beyond the traditional single action platform.

Can you shoot black powder loads in a .45 Colt revolver?

Yes. The .45 Colt began as a black powder cartridge, and many shooters still load black powder rounds today. Reloaders often reuse .45 Colt brass, but each load should match the specific revolver and stay within its approved pressure limits.

Does Vance Outdoors carry .45 Colt ammunition?

Yes. Vance Outdoors carries .45 Colt ammo in a range of factory loads, including lighter target rounds and hollow point self defense loads.