Buffalo Bore Ammunition 31C/20: Unleashing Performance in Your .45 Auto Rim Revolver

For discerning shooters and enthusiasts of classic firearms, finding ammunition that perfectly balances power, safety, and performance for vintage revolvers can be a challenge. The Buffalo Bore Ammunition 31C/20 Standard Pressure 45 Auto Rim 225 gr Wadcutter (WC) load is meticulously engineered to meet these exacting demands. This premium ammunition is designed to deliver potent ballistics equivalent to many +P .45 ACP loads, all while operating within the safe pressure limits of standard .45 ACP cartridges. It's the ideal choice for those who own iconic revolvers like the Colt Model 1917 or Smith & Wesson Model 1917, ensuring optimal function without undue stress on the firearm.

This product is not just about power; it's about intelligent design. From its high-quality Starline brass to its flash-suppressed powder, every component is chosen to enhance the shooting experience, whether you're on the range for serious target practice or simply enjoying a piece of firearms history.

Why Choose Buffalo Bore's 45 Auto Rim Wadcutter Ammunition?

When seeking reliable and effective ammunition for a .45 Auto Rim revolver, several factors come into play: performance, safety, and specific bullet design. The Buffalo Bore 31C/20 offers a unique combination that addresses these needs comprehensively.

The Power of Standard Pressure: +P Performance Without the Stress

One of the most compelling features of this Buffalo Bore load is its ability to deliver the ballistic performance typically associated with higher-pressure "+P" .45 ACP ammunition, yet it operates at standard .45 ACP pressures. What does this mean for the shooter and their firearm?

• Enhanced Safety for Vintage Firearms: Many classic revolvers, particularly the Colt and Smith & Wesson Model 1917s for which the .45 Auto Rim cartridge was originally developed, were not designed to withstand the sustained pressures of modern +P loads. Buffalo Bore's engineering prowess allows this ammunition to provide impressive muzzle energy (451 ft lbs) and velocity (950 fps) while staying within the safe operating parameters of these cherished firearms. This eliminates the guesswork and potential risk associated with using hotter loads in older guns, ensuring longevity and safe operation.
• Optimal Performance: Despite the standard pressure, the carefully selected powders and bullet weight ensure that the 225-grain Wadcutter bullet achieves significant kinetic energy and a respectable velocity. This translates into reliable expansion (if applicable for defense, though this is primarily a target round) and consistent downrange performance. It effectively bridges the gap, offering magnum-like power in a cartridge traditionally seen as moderate.

Wadcutter Wisdom: Precision for Target Shooters

The 225-grain Wadcutter (WC) bullet type is a standout feature, particularly for target shooting. Wadcutter bullets are distinctively flat-nosed, cylindrical projectiles designed for a specific purpose:

• Clean, Crisp Holes: When shooting paper targets, wadcutter bullets cut incredibly clean, perfectly circular holes. This makes scoring much easier and more precise, eliminating ambiguity often seen with round-nose or semi-wadcutter bullets that can tear paper. For competitive shooters or those focused on improving their accuracy, this is a significant advantage.
• Enhanced Stability: The full-diameter, blunt profile of a wadcutter often provides excellent stability in flight, contributing to improved accuracy at closer to medium ranges.
• Reduced Recoil Sensation: While a 225-grain bullet at 950 fps is certainly potent, the nature of the wadcutter's design can sometimes alter the perceived recoil impulse. For some shooters, the flatter bullet profile results in a different recoil sensation compared to more pointed designs, which can be beneficial for faster follow-up shots or extended practice sessions.
• Ideal for Practice and Proficiency: Given its target-oriented design, this ammunition is perfectly suited for honing your shooting skills with your .45 Auto Rim revolver. It allows for consistent practice with a cartridge that mirrors the power of many defensive loads, without the cost or potential over-penetration concerns of hollow points for range use.

Flash Suppression for Low-Light Shooting and Shooter Comfort

The inclusion of flash-suppressed powder in this Buffalo Bore load is a thoughtful addition that enhances the shooting experience, especially in certain conditions:

• Preserving Night Vision: When shooting in low-light environments, whether indoors at a dimly lit range or outdoors at dusk, excessive muzzle flash can temporarily blind the shooter. This "flash blindness" can impair vision for several seconds, making target re-acquisition difficult and potentially compromising safety. Flash-suppressed powder significantly reduces the visible muzzle flash, helping to preserve the shooter's natural night vision.
• Reduced Distraction: Even in brighter conditions, a large muzzle flash can be distracting to the shooter and those nearby. Minimizing this flash contributes to a more comfortable and focused shooting experience.
• Discreet Operation: For some applications, reducing a firearm's visual signature is desirable. While not a suppressor, flash-suppressed powder aids in a more discreet shooting profile.

Starline Brass: The Foundation of Reliability

The use of high-quality Starline brass is a hallmark of premium ammunition. Starline Brass is renowned in the reloading and ammunition manufacturing community for its:

• Durability and Consistency: Starline brass is known for its robust construction, ensuring consistent case dimensions and primer pocket integrity. This translates directly into reliable feeding, extraction, and ignition.
• Reloadability: For those who reload their ammunition, Starline .45 Auto Rim brass is highly regarded for its longevity and ability to withstand multiple reloading cycles, providing excellent value over time. While this Buffalo Bore ammunition comes ready to shoot, the quality of its components adds inherent value for future reloading endeavors.
• Optimized Performance: Consistent brass contributes to consistent internal ballistics, meaning each round performs predictably, shot after shot. This consistency is crucial for accuracy and reliability.

Understanding the .45 Auto Rim Cartridge: A Historical and Practical Perspective

The .45 Auto Rim (sometimes abbreviated .45 AR) is a fascinating cartridge with a rich history, primarily linked to World War I. Knowing its background helps appreciate why this Buffalo Bore load is so significant.

• Birth from Necessity: The .45 Auto Rim cartridge was developed by the Peters Cartridge Company in 1917, specifically for U.S. military-issue revolvers—the Colt and Smith & Wesson Model 1917s. These revolvers were chambered in .45 ACP, a cartridge designed for semi-automatic pistols like the M1911. Since rimless .45 ACP cartridges could not be reliably extracted from a revolver's cylinder without a rim, brass half-moon or full-moon clips were used to hold three or six rounds together, allowing for simultaneous extraction. However, these clips could be cumbersome, easily lost, or prone to bending.
• The Solution: A Rimmed .45 ACP: The .45 Auto Rim solved this problem by adding an integral rim to the .45 ACP case, allowing the cartridge to headspace correctly and be extracted by the revolver's ejector rod without the need for moon clips. This made the 1917 revolvers more practical and user-friendly for military personnel who might not always have access to or time for managing moon clips in the field.
• Continued Relevance: While never achieving the widespread popularity of its .45 ACP parent, the .45 Auto Rim has maintained a dedicated following among owners of Model 1917 revolvers and other .45 ACP-chambered revolvers (which can typically fire .45 Auto Rim interchangeably without clips). It offers a straightforward, reliable option for these firearms, eliminating the need for moon clips altogether. For many enthusiasts, using a rimmed cartridge in their rimmed revolver simply feels more "correct."

Compatibility and Safety Considerations

This Buffalo Bore Ammunition 31C/20 is engineered with specific firearm compatibility in mind:

• Colt and Smith & Wesson Model 1917 Revolvers: These are the primary firearms for which the .45 Auto Rim cartridge was designed. This ammunition is perfectly safe to use in any Model 1917 Colt or S&W revolver, provided the firearm is in normal operating condition. This means the gun should be regularly maintained, inspected for wear, and deemed mechanically sound by a competent gunsmith if there are any doubts.
• Other .45 ACP Revolvers: Many modern revolvers chambered in .45 ACP, such as various models from Ruger, S&W, and Taurus (that typically require moon clips for .45 ACP), can also reliably fire .45 Auto Rim ammunition without the need for clips. Always consult your firearm's manual or a qualified gunsmith to confirm compatibility.
• Ammunition Safety Best Practices:
  • Always ensure your firearm is specifically chambered for .45 Auto Rim or .45 ACP (with confirmed .45 AR compatibility). Never attempt to use this ammunition in firearms not rated for it.
  • Store ammunition in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
  • Always wear appropriate eye and ear protection when shooting.
  • Follow all four fundamental rules of firearm safety: treat every gun as if it were loaded; never point the muzzle at anything you are not willing to destroy; keep your finger off the trigger until your sights are on the target; and be sure of your target and what is beyond it.
  • If you encounter any issues (e.g., misfires, unusual recoil, unusual noise), stop shooting immediately and consult a qualified gunsmith.

Ideal Applications for Buffalo Bore 31C/20 45 Auto Rim Ammunition

While the initial description highlights "Target Shooting," the specific characteristics of this ammunition make it versatile for several applications:

• Precision Target Shooting: As noted, the wadcutter bullet is unparalleled for cutting clean holes in paper targets, making it excellent for sight-in, accuracy testing, and competitive shooting where precise scoring is critical.
• Revolver Proficiency Training: The standard pressure, yet potent performance, makes it an ideal training round. Shooters can practice with a load that feels substantial, building confidence and skill without the potentially harsh recoil or expense of high-end defensive rounds.
• Vintage Firearm Preservation and Enjoyment: For collectors and enthusiasts of historical firearms, using the correct and safely loaded ammunition is paramount. This Buffalo Bore load allows owners of Model 1917 revolvers to safely shoot their pieces of history, enjoying their functionality without worrying about excessive wear or damage from inappropriate modern loads.
• General Range Plinking: For casual shooting, this ammunition provides a consistent and enjoyable experience, offering satisfying performance for recreational use.
• Alternative to .45 ACP with Moon Clips: For shooters who prefer not to deal with moon clips, or who want a simpler loading/unloading process for their .45 ACP revolvers, the .45 Auto Rim is a direct, drop-in solution.

Why Trust Buffalo Bore Ammunition?

Buffalo Bore Ammunition has built a sterling reputation among serious shooters and hunters for its commitment to pushing ballistic boundaries while maintaining uncompromising quality and safety.

• "Strictly Business" Series: This specific load falls under Buffalo Bore's "Strictly Business" series, a designation that implies a focus on reliability, performance, and practical application. These aren't gimmick loads; they are engineered for consistent, dependable results when it truly matters.
• Dedication to Niche Calibers: Buffalo Bore is known for supporting a wide range of calibers, including many older or less common ones like the .45 Auto Rim. Their commitment ensures that owners of these firearms have access to high-performance, purpose-built ammunition, rather than being forced to rely on scarce or suboptimal options.
• Quality Control: Every step of the manufacturing process, from component selection (like Starline brass) to powder charges and bullet seating, undergoes rigorous quality control. This attention to detail translates directly into the reliability and consistent performance that shooters demand.

When searching for the finest .45 Auto Rim ammunition that delivers powerful performance at safe pressures, the Buffalo Bore Ammunition 31C/20 Standard Pressure 45 Auto Rim 225 gr Wadcutter is an exceptional choice. Its careful construction, combined with the proven track record of Buffalo Bore, makes it a highly recommended option for anyone looking to maximize the potential of their .45 Auto Rim revolver. These high-performance ammunition products, including the Buffalo Bore 31C/20 with UPC 651815031033, are available from reputable dealers like DEGuns, ensuring you receive genuine, quality products for your shooting needs.

Product Specifications: Buffalo Bore Ammunition 31C/20 45 Auto Rim

The table below summarizes the key specifications for the Buffalo Bore Ammunition 31C/20, providing a quick reference for its important characteristics.

Feature	Specification
Brand	Buffalo Bore Ammunition
Series	Strictly Business
Model	Standard Pressure
Caliber	45 Auto Rim
Bullet Type	Wadcutter (WC)
Bullet Weight	225 gr
Casing Material	Brass (Starline)
Muzzle Velocity	950 fps
Muzzle Energy	451 ft lbs
Rounds Per Box	20
Boxes Per Case	12
Application	Target Shooting
SKU	82225
MPN	31C20
UPC	651815031033