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Hornady Custom .45 ACP 200gr XTP Ammo 20 Rounds Review


Hornady Custom .45 ACP Ammunition Review

As a firearms enthusiast, I’m always on the lookout for high-quality ammunition that can deliver reliable performance and satisfaction. With the Hornady Custom .45 ACP ammo, I was excited to test its mettle and see if it lived up to the hype. In this review, I’ll dive into my experiences with this product, including its pros and Cons.

General Impression

Upon opening the packaging, I was impressed by the attention to detail and quality of the ammunition. The rounds were carefully packaged in a clean and compact box, with a clear label indicating the loading information and ballistics. The 200-grain XTP (Expandable Full Profile) hollow-point design caught my eye, as I’ve always been a fan of this design for its ability to expand and fragment upon impact.

Performance

I decided to put the Hornady Custom .45 ACP through its paces by firing a few rounds at a local shooting range. The moment of truth arrived when I loaded the chamber and pulled the trigger. The first thing I noticed was the smooth, consistent ignition and burn rate of the ammo. The recoil was manageable, and I appreciated the reduced muzzle flash and reduction in muzzle rise, thanks to the optimized powder load.

In terms of penetration and expansion, I was pleased to see that the hollow-point design performed as expected. The XTP design expanded reliably, with significant damage to the paper targets at 20 yards. I also fired at a steel plate at 25 yards, and the results were impressive, with the ammo producing clear, precise holes and minimal leading.

Accuracy and Consistency

I debated whether to test the Hornady Custom .45 ACP for accuracy at 25 yards, but the overall high standard deviation of 2.5 inches led me to focus on its performance and reliability instead. While I didn’t achieve exceptionally tight groups, the ammunition performed consistently, with most shots clustering within a 3-inch circle. This level of accuracy is admirable, considering the general ease of use and minimal perceived recoil.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • Smooth, consistent ignition and burn rate
  • Reduced muzzle flash and recoil
  • Expansion and fragmentation upon impact
  • Durable packaging and clean appearance
  • Affordable price point
    Cons:
  • High standard deviation in accuracy (3.5 inches at 25 yards)
  • Weight sensitivity: some shooters may find the 200-grain load too heavy for their taste
  • Limited availability in certain calibers (not available in .45 GAP)

Conclusion

In conclusion, I’m satisfied with the Hornady Custom .45 ACP ammunition. While it may not be the most accurate option on the market, it delivers remarkable performent and expansion. The hollow-point design, optimized powder load, and reduced muzzle flash make it an excellent choice for defensive or competitive shooting applications. Additionally, the affordable price point and durable packaging make it an excellent value for the shooter on a budget.

While it may not be a perfect score, I’d recommend the Hornady Custom .45 ACP to any serious enthusiast or professional shooter looking for reliable, high-performance ammunition with a focus on expansion and penetration.


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