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Difference Between .45 ACP and .45 GAP

Introduction

The world of firearms and ammunition can be complex, with various calibers and cartridges available to choose from. When it comes to the .45 caliber, two popular options are the .45 ACP (Auto Colt Pistol) and the .45 GAP (Glock Automatic Pistol).

History

The .45 ACP has a long-standing history, introduced in 1905 for use in the Colt Model 1905 semi-automatic pistol. It gained popularity and became the standard caliber for the Colt 1911, serving as the primary sidearm for the United States Armed Forces for several decades. On the other hand, the .45 GAP was introduced by Glock in 2003 to provide a cartridge similar to the .45 ACP but with a shorter case length for use in a more compact handgun.

Cartridge Design

The .45 ACP, also known as 11.43x23mm, features a relatively long cartridge with a bullet diameter of .452 inches. It typically uses a 230-grain bullet and operates at a lower pressure compared to other pistol cartridges. The .45 GAP, or 11.43x19mm, has a shorter and more compact cartridge design. It utilizes a .451-inch diameter bullet and typically comes in bullet weights ranging from 185 to 230 grains.

Ballistics and Performance

Due to its longer case length, the .45 ACP generally offers a slightly higher muzzle velocity and energy compared to the .45 GAP. However, the differences in practical terms are relatively small. The .45 ACP typically achieves velocities around 830 to 950 feet per second (fps) and muzzle energies ranging from 350 to 400 foot-pounds (ft-lbs). The .45 GAP, with its shorter case, typically achieves velocities around 930 to 980 fps and muzzle energies ranging from 400 to 475 ft-lbs.

Magazine Capacity

One of the significant advantages of the .45 GAP over the .45 ACP is its smaller cartridge size, allowing for increased magazine capacity. Due to the shorter case, firearms chambered in .45 GAP can typically hold more rounds in the magazine compared to their .45 ACP counterparts. For example, some Glock models chambered in .45 ACP hold 10 rounds, while the same models chambered in .45 GAP can hold 13 rounds.

Ammunition Availability

When it comes to ammunition availability, the .45 ACP has a clear advantage. It has been in use for over a century, making it widely available and offered by numerous ammunition manufacturers worldwide. On the other hand, due to its relatively recent introduction, the .45 GAP has a more limited selection of available ammunition options. While the .45 GAP is still readily available, it may not be as commonly found as the .45 ACP.

Firearm Compatibility

Firearms chambered in .45 ACP have been around for decades and are offered by various manufacturers, providing shooters with a wide range of options. Due to its shorter history, the .45 GAP has fewer firearm options available. Glock, being the creator of the .45 GAP, offers a variety of models chambered in this caliber, but the selection by other manufacturers is more limited.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both the .45 ACP and .45 GAP are popular .45 caliber options. The .45 ACP has a long-standing history, wider ammunition selection, and compatibility with various firearms. On the other hand, the .45 GAP offers a shorter case, increased magazine capacity, and greater muzzle energy. Ultimately, the choice between these two calibers depends on the shooter’s specific needs, preferences, and firearm options.

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Difference Between 45 Acp And 45 Gap