Complete Guide to Hornady Custom Cowboy 45 Colt Ammunition

For aficionados of classic firearms and dedicated participants in the exhilarating sport of Cowboy Action Shooting, the pursuit of reliable, consistent, and authentic ammunition is paramount. The right cartridge doesn't just deliver a projectile; it enhances the entire shooting experience, ensuring flawless performance in competition and preserving the historical integrity of your cherished firearms. When precision, power, and purity of performance are non-negotiable, the Hornady Custom Cowboy 45 Colt 255 gr Lead ammunition stands out as a premier choice. This meticulously engineered round, bearing UPC 090255391152, is designed to meet the exacting demands of shooters who value tradition without compromising on modern reliability.

Why Hornady Custom Cowboy 45 Colt Ammunition is the Definitive Choice for Enthusiasts

Are you searching for the ideal ammunition for your single-action revolver or lever-action rifle chambered in .45 Colt? Do you require rounds that offer superior accuracy, minimal barrel fouling, and absolute reliability for competitive shooting or target practice? The Hornady Custom Cowboy series is specifically crafted to address these critical needs. Unlike standard factory loads, these cartridges are tailored to the unique requirements of classic firearms and the specific rules and spirit of Cowboy Action Shooting.

Unrivaled Reliability for Competitive Edge

In the fast-paced world of Cowboy Action Shooting (often abbreviated as CAS), every second and every shot counts. Ammunition failures are not merely inconvenient; they can be the difference between a winning run and a disappointing performance. Hornady has long been a name synonymous with precision and dependability in the ammunition industry, and their Custom Cowboy line exemplifies this commitment. These rounds are engineered to feed smoothly, cycle flawlessly, and ignite consistently, providing the absolute reliability that competitive shooters demand. The meticulous quality control processes at Hornady ensure that each round performs identically to the last, fostering confidence in every trigger pull.

The Purity of Lead: Engineered for Performance and Preservation

One of the defining features of the Hornady Custom Cowboy 45 Colt ammunition is its 255-grain lead bullet. While many modern cartridges utilize jacketed projectiles, traditional lead bullets are often preferred for classic firearms, especially in Cowboy Action Shooting. Here's why the Hornady approach to lead bullets is superior:

• Swaged Bullet Design: Unlike cast bullets, Hornady's swaged lead bullets are formed under extreme pressure, resulting in incredibly uniform and concentric projectiles. This consistency translates directly to improved accuracy and predictable ballistics. Furthermore, swaged bullets are designed to flatten upon impact with steel targets, rather than fragmenting. This characteristic is crucial for safety on the range, as it minimizes dangerous splatter and ricochets, making them ideal for the steel targets commonly used in CAS.
• Diamond Knurling for Superior Lubrication: Lead bullets require proper lubrication to prevent lead fouling in the barrel and ensure smooth passage down the bore. Hornady's innovative "diamond knurling" on the bullet's bearing surface is a key differentiator. This unique texture allows the bullet lubricant to be applied evenly and effectively, maintaining lubrication along the entire length of the bullet as it travels down the barrel. The result? Significantly reduced lead buildup in the rifling, leading to cleaner firearms, easier cleaning sessions, and maintained accuracy over extended shooting periods. This feature is particularly appreciated by shooters who spend hours on the range.

Clean-Burning Propellants: A Shooter's Best Friend

Beyond the bullet, the quality of the propellant is critical for a pleasant and efficient shooting experience. Hornady Custom Cowboy ammunition utilizes meticulously selected, clean-burning propellants. What does this mean for you, the shooter?

• Reduced Residue: Less unburnt powder and carbon residue accumulate within your firearm's action and barrel. This not only keeps your gun cleaner for longer but also contributes to greater reliability by preventing the buildup that can cause malfunctions over time.
• Clearer Vision: Less smoke and flash at the muzzle mean better visibility for follow-up shots, which is crucial in dynamic shooting sports.
• Easier Maintenance: A cleaner-burning powder simplifies post-shooting cleaning, saving you time and effort while extending the life of your valuable firearms.

Understanding the Ballistics of Hornady 45 Colt Ammunition

For those who delve into the technical aspects of ammunition performance, the ballistics of the Hornady Custom Cowboy 45 Colt are optimized for its intended purpose.

• Muzzle Velocity: At 725 feet per second (fps), this ammunition strikes an excellent balance. It's fast enough to ensure reliable target acquisition and sufficient energy transfer, yet it maintains a recoil profile that is comfortable and controllable, especially for rapid firing sequences in competition. This moderate velocity is also gentle on older, historically significant firearms, reducing wear and tear.
• Muzzle Energy: Delivering 298 foot-pounds (ft lbs) of energy at the muzzle, these 255-grain lead bullets possess ample power for their designated applications. While listed for "Small Game" hunting, its primary utility and optimization clearly lie within the realm of target shooting and competitive sports where humane and efficient energy transfer to targets (paper or steel) is key, rather than large game hunting. The energy is sufficient for knocking down reactive steel targets commonly found on CAS stages.
• Bullet Weight: The 255-grain bullet weight is a traditional and highly effective weight for the .45 Colt cartridge. It provides good sectional density, contributing to stability in flight and consistent downrange performance. This heavier bullet also contributes to the comfortable, "push" like recoil, rather than a sharp "snap," which is preferred by many shooters.

Who is the Hornady Custom Cowboy 45 Colt For?

This ammunition is meticulously crafted for a specific audience and set of applications:

1. Cowboy Action Shooters (SASS Members and Enthusiasts): This is the primary demographic. The rounds are built to meet the rules and spirit of Single Action Shooting Society (SASS) sanctioned events, offering the reliability, accuracy, and traditional performance required for competition.
2. Recreational Shooters with Classic Firearms: If you own a Colt Single Action Army, a replica revolver, or a lever-action rifle chambered in .45 Colt, and you enjoy target shooting or plinking with an emphasis on authenticity and smooth operation, this ammunition is an excellent match.
3. Collectors and Re-enactors: For those who appreciate the historical significance of the .45 Colt and engage in period-accurate shooting demonstrations or re-enactments, these rounds provide an authentic feel with modern manufacturing consistency.
4. Small Game Hunters (Specific Scenarios): While its core strength is target sports, the listed "Small Game" application suggests suitability for very specific, low-recoil, close-range hunting of appropriate small game species where the 255 gr lead bullet and moderate velocity are sufficient and humane. However, always verify local hunting regulations and choose ammunition appropriate for the specific game and hunting conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions About .45 Colt Ammunition

As experts in firearms and ammunition, we often encounter common queries about the .45 Colt cartridge and its optimal uses. Here are some insights:

• Is .45 Colt the same as .45 Long Colt (45 LC)? Yes, they refer to the same cartridge. The "Long Colt" designation was often used historically to differentiate it from the shorter .45 Schofield cartridge. Today, both terms interchangeably refer to the venerable .45 Colt. Hornady's 45 Colt ammunition is compatible with firearms chambered for either designation.
• Will this ammunition cause excessive lead fouling in my barrel? Hornady's Custom Cowboy ammunition is specifically designed to minimize lead fouling. The combination of swaged bullets with their unique diamond knurling (which holds lubricant effectively) and clean-burning propellants significantly reduces lead buildup compared to many traditional lead loads. This means less time cleaning and more time shooting.
• Is this ammunition safe for antique firearms? While Hornady Custom Cowboy ammunition is loaded to moderate pressures suitable for many older firearms, it is absolutely crucial to consult your firearm's manufacturer recommendations or a qualified gunsmith regarding ammunition compatibility, especially for genuine antique firearms. Always ensure your firearm is in safe working condition before use.
• Can I use these rounds for self-defense? While the .45 Colt is a powerful cartridge, the Hornady Custom Cowboy line is optimized for target shooting and Cowboy Action Sports, not self-defense. For self-defense applications, purpose-built self-defense ammunition with different bullet types and performance characteristics is recommended.
• How does the 255-grain bullet compare to other weights? The 255-grain lead bullet is a very traditional weight for the .45 Colt, reflecting its historical roots. It offers a good balance of terminal performance for targets and manageable recoil. Lighter bullets might offer higher velocities but could have less "knock-down" power on steel targets or different recoil impulses. Heavier bullets (less common in .45 Colt for CAS) would generally have more recoil and lower velocity.

The Hornady Legacy: A Mark of Excellence

Hornady Manufacturing Company has a storied history of producing high-quality ammunition components and loaded ammunition since 1949. Their reputation is built on innovation, precision, and an unwavering commitment to ballistic excellence. When you choose Hornady Custom Cowboy 45 Colt ammunition, you're not just buying a box of cartridges; you're investing in decades of expertise, cutting-edge manufacturing, and a dedication to the shooting sports community. Their attention to detail, from the precisely swaged bullets to the meticulously chosen propellants, ensures a premium product that consistently delivers performance.

Your Trusted Source for Hornady Ammunition: DEGuns

As a discerning shooter looking for the best in ammunition, it's essential to source your products from a reputable and knowledgeable supplier. The Hornady Custom Cowboy 45 Colt 255 gr Lead ammunition (UPC 090255391152, MPN 9115) is readily available through DEGuns.com. At DEGuns, we pride ourselves on offering a comprehensive selection of firearms and ammunition, backed by exceptional customer service and a commitment to helping you find exactly what you need for your shooting pursuits. Whether you're gearing up for your next Cowboy Action competition or simply enjoying a day at the range with your classic revolver, you can trust DEGuns to provide authentic Hornady products with competitive pricing and reliable delivery. Each box contains 20 meticulously crafted rounds, with 10 boxes packaged per case, ensuring you're well-stocked for your shooting endeavors.

Invest in the Hornady Custom Cowboy 45 Colt 255 gr Lead ammunition and experience the difference that superior engineering and a legacy of excellence can make in your shooting accuracy, firearm longevity, and overall enjoyment of classic shooting sports.

Product Specifications: Hornady Custom Cowboy 45 Colt

Attribute	Detail
Brand	Hornady
Model	Custom Cowboy
Caliber	45 Colt (also known as .45 LC)
Bullet Type	Lead (Swaged, Diamond Knurling)
Bullet Weight	255 grains (gr)
Rounds Per Box	20
Boxes Per Case	10
Casing Material	Brass
Muzzle Velocity	725 feet per second (fps)
Muzzle Energy	298 foot-pounds (ft lbs)
Application Focus	Cowboy Action Shooting, Target Practice, Small Game Hunting
SKU (Internal)	87565
UPC (Universal Product Code)	090255391152
MPN (Manufacturer Part Number)	9115