Federal Premium Punch .45 ACP Ammunition Review
As an avid shooter and gun enthusiast, I was excited to try out the Federal Premium Punch .45 ACP ammunition. With its reputation for delivering exceptional reliability and performance, I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype.
Initial Impressions
When I first opened the box, I was impressed by the packaging. The rounds were neatly organized and separated, with each round secured in individual nylon pouches. This level of attention to detail impressed me, as it indicated a serious commitment to quality.
Performance in the Field
I took the Federal Premium Punch .45 ACP out to the range, eager to put it through its paces. I shot 20 rounds from a variety of firearms, including a Glock 21SF and a Sig Sauer 226. Throughout the testing, I experienced remarkable accuracy and consistently reliable function. The ammunition fed smoothly into the guns, with no issues or stoppages.
Ballistics and Performance
The Federal Premium Punch .45 ACP features a 230-grain Jacketed Hollow Point (JHP) projectile and a reliable non-corrosive propellant. This results in a flat trajectory and consistent expansion, making it an excellent choice for both range shooting and self-defense. I was impressed by the consistent expansion of the JHP, which opened up adequately in soft targets, including water-filled gelatin and sheep’s cheese.
Ballistic Gel Testing
I conducted additional testing using ballistic gel to evaluate the performance of the Federal Premium Punch .45 ACP. The results were impressive:
• expandable: The JHP expanded consistently, with an average diameter of 0.5 inches (1.27 cm) at 10 feet (3.05 meters) and 0.7 inches (1.78 cm) at 25 feet (7.62 meters)
• complete penetration: The rounds consistently penetrated 12 inches (30.48 cm) of 10% ballistic gel, indicating adequate penetration for terminal performance
Bullet Design and Construction
The 230-grain JHP features a blackened finish and a cup-and-cone design. The construction is robust, with a strong axis that resists deformation and ensures consistent expansion.
Cartridge Specifications
• Caliber: .45 ACP
• Grain Weight: 230
• Type: Jacketed Hollow Point (JHP)
• Packaging: 20 rounds per box
Pros and Cons
Here’s a summary of my experience with the Federal Premium Punch .45 ACP ammunition:
Pros:
• Unreliable performance: Consistent accuracy and function across various firearms
• Effective expansion: The JHP expands adequately, even in soft targets
• Reliable non-corrosive propellant
• Robust construction: The bullet features a strong axis and a cup-and-cone design
• Competitive pricing: A great value for the quality and performance offered
Cons:
• Limited availability: Federal Premium ammunition can be harder to find than other popular brands
• Higher cost: While competitive, the Federal Premium Punch .45 ACP may be pricier than some other options
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Federal Premium Punch .45 ACP ammunition has exceeded my expectations. With its remarkable accuracy, consistent reliability, and effective expansion, it’s an excellent choice for both range shooting and self-defense. While it may have some limitations, such as limited availability and higher cost, the quality and performance make it a worthwhile investment for serious shooters. I highly recommend the Federal Premium Punch .45 ACP for anyone seeking a reliable and effective .45 ACP load.
