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45 Colt Load Data & Ballistics Calculator

Estimate chamber pressure and muzzle velocity for the 45 Colt with the free, in-browser MyLoads internal-ballistics simulator. The figures below are illustrative estimates from a physics model — not a recommended recipe. Always cross-check a current published loading manual.

45 Colt reference

Maximum average pressure (MAP)14,000 psi
Nominal case capacity41.0 gr H₂O
Groove / bullet diameter0.452 in (11.48 mm)

Example simulation illustrative

Bullet
Hornady 0.454 255 gr FP COWBOY
Powder
Hodgdon Universal
Charge
6.1 gr
Barrel
4 in

Muzzle velocity

653 fps

Peak chamber pressure (interval, ±10% burn-rate)

11,088 – 11,738 – 12,348 psi

nominal is 84% of the 14,000 psi maximum average pressure

Illustrative example — every figure here is an estimate and can be wrong. Always consult a current published loading manual, and never trust these numbers on their own.

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