Optimizing Performance for .45 Auto Rim Revolvers: The Buffalo Bore 200gr JHP Advantage

For discerning owners of classic revolvers chambered in .45 Auto Rim, or those utilizing .45 ACP revolvers that benefit from the convenience of rimmed cartridges, finding ammunition that balances historical compatibility with modern ballistic performance can be a significant challenge. Many vintage firearms, while robust, were not designed for the higher pressures of contemporary +P loads. This is where Buffalo Bore Ammunition's 31B/20 Standard Pressure 45 Auto Rim 200 grain Jacketed Hollow Point (JHP) cartridge emerges as a uniquely engineered solution, offering the power and terminal ballistics typically associated with +P .45 ACP loads, yet meticulously crafted to operate at standard .45 ACP pressures. This innovative approach ensures both formidable stopping power and crucial safety for your cherished firearm assets, making it an ideal choice for personal protection and home defense scenarios.

Understanding the .45 Auto Rim Cartridge

The .45 Auto Rim (.45 AR) cartridge holds a fascinating place in firearms history. It was developed specifically for the U.S. Military M1917 revolvers (both Colt and Smith & Wesson models) during World War I. These revolvers were designed to chamber the rimless .45 ACP pistol cartridge, which, being rimless, required the use of "half-moon" or "full-moon" clips to facilitate extraction from the revolver's cylinder. While effective, these clips could be cumbersome to load and unload, especially under combat conditions.

To address this, the Peters Cartridge Company introduced the .45 Auto Rim in 1920. This cartridge was essentially a .45 ACP case with an extra-thick rim, allowing for positive extraction from a revolver's ejector star without the need for moon clips. This innovation made reloading and clearing spent casings much faster and more reliable in a revolver platform. While less common than its .45 ACP counterpart, the .45 Auto Rim remains highly relevant today for collectors, enthusiasts, and anyone who owns a vintage M1917 revolver or a modern revolver designed to also accept .45 ACP (which can often also fire .45 Auto Rim interchangeably without clips). Choosing the right ammunition for these classic firearms is paramount, as many were manufactured over a century ago.

Key Features of Buffalo Bore 31B/20 Ammunition

Buffalo Bore Ammunition is renowned for its commitment to producing specialized, high-performance cartridges. The 31B/20 45 Auto Rim offering is a prime example of this dedication, combining several critical elements to deliver exceptional results without compromising firearm integrity.

Standard Pressure, Ballistic +P Performance

One of the most compelling attributes of the Buffalo Bore 31B/20 is its ability to deliver ballistic performance equivalent to popular +P .45 ACP loads, all while maintaining standard .45 ACP chamber pressures. How is this achieved? Buffalo Bore employs advanced propellants and precise load development to maximize efficiency within the cartridge's safe pressure limits. This means shooters gain significant advantages in terms of muzzle velocity and energy – specifically, a powerful 1000 feet per second (fps) and 444 foot-pounds (ft lbs) of energy – without subjecting their firearm to the increased wear and tear or potential safety concerns that high-pressure rounds might pose for older or less robust revolvers. This engineering feat makes this ammunition particularly suitable and safe for use in any .45 ACP revolver that is in normal operating condition, including historic models like the 1917 Colt and Smith & Wesson revolvers.

200 Grain Jacketed Hollow Point (JHP) Bullet

The choice of a 200-grain Jacketed Hollow Point (JHP) bullet is strategic for personal defense applications. JHP bullets are designed to expand upon impact, creating a larger wound channel and maximizing energy transfer to the target. This expansion is crucial for ensuring effective stopping power, especially in critical self-defense situations. The 200-grain weight strikes an optimal balance for the .45 Auto Rim cartridge, providing sufficient mass for deep penetration while allowing for the high velocity achieved by Buffalo Bore's load. This combination ensures reliable expansion and significant incapacitation potential, making it a trusted choice when every shot counts.

High Quality Starline Brass Casing Material

The foundation of any reliable ammunition is its casing, and Buffalo Bore's use of high-quality Starline brass is a testament to their commitment to excellence. Starline Brass is widely regarded in the industry for its consistent quality, durability, and precise manufacturing tolerances. This superior brass ensures:

• Reliable Feeding and Extraction: Smooth chambering and consistent ejection from the revolver's cylinder.
• Consistency: Uniform internal dimensions contribute to consistent powder burn and bullet seating, leading to predictable ballistics shot after shot.
• Durability: Robust construction helps withstand the stresses of firing, contributing to the overall integrity of the cartridge.
• Flash-Suppressed Powder for Low-Light Shooting

In self-defense scenarios, lighting conditions are often unpredictable and rarely ideal. Buffalo Bore addresses this critical aspect by utilizing flash-suppressed powder in their 45 Auto Rim loads. Standard powders can produce a significant muzzle flash, which, especially in low-light environments, can temporarily blind the shooter, disorient them, and obscure their vision for follow-up shots or threat assessment. Flash-suppressed powder significantly reduces this visual signature, offering several tactical advantages:

• Preservation of Night Vision: Minimizes the disruption to the shooter's natural night adaptation.
• Reduced Signature: Less visible flash, particularly important for not revealing the shooter's position.
• Faster Follow-Up Shots: Without the blinding flash, the shooter can maintain a clearer sight picture, allowing for quicker and more accurate subsequent shots if needed.

This thoughtful feature underscores Buffalo Bore's understanding of real-world defensive applications and their dedication to optimizing every aspect of their ammunition for performance under pressure.

Performance Metrics & Real-World Impact

The raw numbers of the Buffalo Bore 31B/20 tell a compelling story of performance:

• Muzzle Velocity: 1000 feet per second (fps)
• Muzzle Energy: 444 foot-pounds (ft lbs)

For a standard pressure .45 Auto Rim load, achieving these metrics is exceptional. A 1000 fps velocity for a 200-grain JHP bullet ensures that the projectile reaches its target quickly and with sufficient speed to initiate reliable expansion. The accompanying 444 ft lbs of muzzle energy translates directly into formidable stopping power. In personal defense, energy transfer is paramount; the more energy transferred to a threat, the greater the likelihood of incapacitation. This load is engineered to deliver substantial kinetic energy, providing confidence in its effectiveness when faced with a threat.

Who Is This Ammunition For?

This specialized ammunition serves a distinct and important segment of the firearms community. It is an indispensable choice for:

• Owners of Vintage .45 ACP Revolvers: If you own a Colt Model 1917, a Smith & Wesson Model 1917, or any other revolver chambered for .45 ACP (which can typically also fire .45 Auto Rim without moon clips), this ammunition provides a powerful yet safe option. It respects the design limits of these classic firearms while still offering modern defensive capabilities.
• Individuals Seeking Reliable Home Defense Ammunition: For those who rely on a .45 Auto Rim revolver for personal or home protection, the 200 gr JHP design, combined with its high energy transfer, makes it an excellent choice for stopping threats effectively.
• Concealed Carry Permit Holders with .45 AR Revolvers: While less common for everyday carry than compact semi-autos, some individuals prefer the simplicity and reliability of a revolver. For these users, selecting ammunition that performs optimally and safely is crucial.
• Firearms Enthusiasts and Collectors: Those who appreciate the historical significance of the .45 Auto Rim will find this ammunition allows them to safely and effectively shoot their prized firearms, providing modern performance for range sessions or defensive purposes.
• Shooters Prioritizing Reduced Muzzle Flash: For anyone who practices or anticipates needing their firearm in low-light conditions, the flash-suppressed powder offers a significant tactical advantage.

Why Choose Buffalo Bore for Your .45 Auto Rim Revolver?

Choosing Buffalo Bore Ammunition means opting for a brand that prioritizes both power and safety, especially with niche calibers like the .45 Auto Rim. Their 31B/20 load stands out for several reasons:

• Unmatched Performance at Standard Pressure: It truly delivers the best of both worlds – the punch of a +P load without the associated pressure risks for older firearms.
• Premium Componentry: From the Starline brass to the precision-engineered JHP bullet and specialized powder, every component is selected for peak performance and reliability.
• Designed for Specific Needs: This isn't a generic .45 caliber load; it's meticulously crafted to meet the unique requirements and applications of the .45 Auto Rim revolver.
• Trust and Reliability: Buffalo Bore has built a strong reputation among serious shooters for producing consistent, high-quality, and hard-hitting ammunition. When your safety depends on your equipment, choosing a trusted brand is paramount.

Common Questions Answered

When considering ammunition for a unique cartridge like the .45 Auto Rim, several questions frequently arise. Here are some of the most common inquiries and their answers regarding Buffalo Bore's 31B/20 load:

Is the .45 Auto Rim cartridge still relevant today?

Absolutely. While it's not as common as the .45 ACP, the .45 Auto Rim remains highly relevant for several reasons. Firstly, it provides a crucial and convenient ammunition source for the many historical M1917 Colt and Smith & Wesson revolvers still in circulation, allowing them to be fired without the need for moon clips. Secondly, for modern revolvers chambered in .45 ACP that can also use .45 AR, it offers a hassle-free loading experience. Its unique design for revolvers eliminates the potential for rimless cartridge extraction issues, ensuring reliable cycling.

Can I use this Buffalo Bore 45 Auto Rim ammunition in my .45 ACP revolver?

Yes, if your .45 ACP revolver is in normal operating condition, including models like the 1917 Colt or S&W, this Buffalo Bore 45 Auto Rim ammunition is safe to use. The .45 Auto Rim was specifically designed for these revolvers to function without moon clips. It has the same bullet diameter and similar dimensions to .45 ACP, with the key difference being the thicker rim. This design allows for reliable extraction from a revolver's ejector star. Always ensure your firearm is in good mechanical condition before firing any ammunition.

What are the main benefits of a Jacketed Hollow Point (JHP) bullet for self-defense?

Jacketed Hollow Point (JHP) bullets are the industry standard for self-defense ammunition due to their superior terminal performance. Their primary benefit is controlled expansion upon impact with soft tissue. This expansion creates a larger temporary and permanent wound cavity, which is crucial for rapid energy transfer and incapacitation of a threat. Unlike full metal jacket (FMJ) bullets that tend to over-penetrate, JHPs are designed to deliver all their energy within the target, reducing the risk of over-penetration and collateral damage. The 200-grain JHP in this Buffalo Bore load is specifically chosen to optimize this expansion and energy transfer for the .45 Auto Rim cartridge.

Why is flash-suppressed powder important for self-defense?

Flash-suppressed powder is a critical feature, particularly for self-defense scenarios that often occur in low-light or no-light conditions. When a firearm discharges, standard gunpowder can produce a significant muzzle flash. This flash can temporarily blind the shooter, disrupt their night vision, and make it difficult to acquire follow-up targets or assess the situation. By minimizing muzzle flash, flash-suppressed powder allows the shooter to maintain better situational awareness, preserve their night adaptation, and execute follow-up shots more accurately and quickly. It provides a distinct tactical advantage when visibility is compromised.

Where can I purchase Buffalo Bore Ammunition, specifically the 31B/20 .45 Auto Rim?

Buffalo Bore Ammunition, including the 31B/20 Standard Pressure 45 Auto Rim 200 gr JHP, is available from reputable firearms retailers. You can reliably find this specific product and other quality ammunition at DEGuns, which stocks a wide array of premium ammunition options for various needs. Always purchase ammunition from authorized and trusted vendors like DEGuns to ensure authenticity and proper storage.

Ensuring Firearm Compatibility and Safety

Before using any ammunition, especially with vintage firearms, it is always recommended to have your firearm inspected by a qualified gunsmith to ensure it is in normal operating condition. While Buffalo Bore's 45 Auto Rim loads operate at standard pressures, the mechanical integrity of the firearm itself is paramount. Always consult your firearm's owner's manual for specific guidelines and ensure you are familiar with safe gun handling practices. Responsible ammunition usage contributes to a safe and enjoyable shooting experience.

Conclusion

The Buffalo Bore Ammunition 31B/20 Standard Pressure 45 Auto Rim 200 gr Jacketed Hollow Point stands as an exceptional choice for anyone seeking powerful, reliable, and safe ammunition for their .45 Auto Rim or compatible .45 ACP revolver. It brilliantly bridges the gap between the historical integrity of classic firearms and the demands of modern self-defense ballistics. With its unique combination of standard pressure operation delivering +P equivalent performance, high-quality components, and critical features like flash-suppressed powder, this ammunition offers peace of mind and formidable capability. For those who own and rely on these iconic revolvers, this Buffalo Bore offering, readily available at DEGuns, provides an optimized solution that truly excels in its specific niche.

Detailed Ammunition Specifications

Feature	Detail
Brand	Buffalo Bore Ammunition
Series	Strictly Business
Model	Standard Pressure
Caliber	45 Auto Rim
Bullet Type	Jacketed Hollow Point (JHP)
Bullet Weight	200 grain
Muzzle Velocity	1000 fps (feet per second)
Muzzle Energy	444 ft lbs (foot-pounds)
Casing Material	Brass (Starline)
Rounds Per Box	20
Boxes Per Case	12
Application	Home Defense, Personal Protection
SKU	82224
MPN	31B20
UPC	651815031026