A Look Back at the Origins
The world of firearms is constantly evolving, with ammunition manufacturers striving to push the boundaries of performance. For those who appreciate the classic appeal and inherent effectiveness of the .45 ACP cartridge, the desire for more “oomph” has led to some fascinating developments. Enter the 45 Super and the 460 Rowland, two rounds designed to elevate the .45 ACP platform to new levels of power and capability. But which of these high-performance cartridges truly reigns supreme? This article delves deep into a head-to-head comparison, dissecting their history, ballistics, advantages, disadvantages, and ideal applications to help you navigate the world of enhanced .45 ACP performance.
The .45 ACP (Automatic Colt Pistol) cartridge, born in the early 20th century, has a rich history intertwined with the US military and law enforcement. Its straight-walled design and relatively large bullet diameter have made it a favorite for its stopping power. Known for its ability to deliver a substantial impact, the .45 ACP continues to be a popular choice for self-defense and target shooting. However, for those seeking more energy on target, the 45 Super and 460 Rowland offer compelling alternatives.
Before diving into the specifics, it’s important to understand the origins of these two rounds. The 45 Super and 460 Rowland represent different approaches to enhancing the .45 ACP’s performance envelope.
The 45 Super was conceived as a response to the need for a more potent .45 caliber cartridge that could be used in existing firearms (with certain modifications). Dean Grennell, a renowned gun writer and firearms enthusiast, is often credited with popularizing the concept. The idea was to create a higher-pressure load within a slightly modified .45 ACP case, increasing both the bullet’s velocity and its energy. Cor-Bon, a well-known ammunition manufacturer, played a significant role in bringing the 45 Super to a wider audience.
The 460 Rowland, on the other hand, took a more radical approach. The development of the 460 Rowland is often attributed to Johnny Rowland. This cartridge involved modifying the original .45 ACP case to accommodate higher pressures, resulting in a substantial increase in both velocity and muzzle energy. Unlike the 45 Super, the 460 Rowland typically requires a dedicated barrel and, often, other modifications to the firearm to safely contain the increased pressures.
Exploring the Ballistic Landscape
To understand the true capabilities of the 45 Super and 460 Rowland, it’s essential to compare their ballistic performance against the standard .45 ACP. Please bear in mind, that the results can vary based on barrel length, powder type, and bullet weight. The following data provides a general overview:
| Cartridge | Typical Bullet Weight (grains) | Typical Muzzle Velocity (fps) | Typical Muzzle Energy (ft-lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|
| .45 ACP | 230 | 830-850 | 350-370 |
| 45 Super | 185 | 1200-1300 | 590-650 |
| 45 Super | 230 | 1050-1100 | 560-620 |
| 460 Rowland | 185 | 1400-1500 | 800-900 |
| 460 Rowland | 230 | 1200-1300 | 700-860 |
Examining this data, the performance advantages of both the 45 Super and the 460 Rowland are apparent. The 45 Super offers a noticeable boost in velocity and energy compared to the standard .45 ACP. The 460 Rowland, however, takes the performance to another level, achieving significantly higher velocities and delivering a dramatic increase in energy.
Regarding trajectory, the higher velocity of the 460 Rowland results in a flatter trajectory over longer distances. This can be advantageous for hunting or engaging targets at extended ranges. The 45 Super will also offer a flatter trajectory compared to the standard .45 ACP but will still have a more curved path than that of the 460 Rowland.
Recoil is also a critical consideration. The increased power of both cartridges translates to a higher level of recoil. However, the 460 Rowland, with its greater energy output, tends to generate more significant recoil than the 45 Super. This requires a secure grip and practice to maintain accuracy, especially during rapid firing. Muzzle blast is also notably more intense with these high-performance rounds, particularly the 460 Rowland.
The Allure of 45 Super
The 45 Super holds several advantages that make it an attractive option for shooters seeking enhanced performance without major firearm modifications.
One of the significant benefits of the 45 Super is its compatibility with many existing .45 ACP platforms. While it is essential to make appropriate modifications to the firearm – primarily the recoil spring and often a shock buffer – the conversion is typically less involved than that required for the 460 Rowland. This makes the 45 Super an easier upgrade for those who already own a .45 ACP handgun. It allows shooters to retain the familiarity of their preferred firearm while increasing its power.
The 45 Super’s ammunition is relatively easier to source compared to the 460 Rowland, which is another factor in its favour. Ammunition manufacturers produce a wider selection of 45 Super loads, giving shooters more options in terms of bullet weight, bullet type, and overall performance characteristics.
The 45 Super provides a solid balance between power and manageable recoil. While recoil is increased compared to standard .45 ACP loads, it is generally less intense than that of the 460 Rowland, making the 45 Super easier to control and maintain accuracy.
Unleashing the Power of 460 Rowland
The 460 Rowland is designed to deliver maximum performance from the .45 ACP platform. Its advantages are significant for those who seek the absolute pinnacle of power.
One of the most notable advantages of the 460 Rowland is its raw power. The cartridge generates significantly higher velocities and energies than both the .45 ACP and the 45 Super. This translates to a more forceful impact on target, increasing the potential for stopping power. The 460 Rowland’s performance often surpasses the capabilities of many larger-caliber cartridges, making it a potent choice for various applications.
The increased velocity and energy of the 460 Rowland offer a flatter trajectory, which can enhance accuracy at longer ranges.
The 460 Rowland can be a viable option for hunting certain types of medium-sized game where legal. The increased energy and improved ballistics provide a greater margin of effectiveness at longer ranges than is often found in .45 ACP-derived rounds.
Navigating the Disadvantages and Considerations
Both the 45 Super and 460 Rowland come with certain disadvantages that must be weighed carefully.
For the 45 Super, even though the conversion process is usually simpler, there are some concerns. Not all .45 ACP pistols are designed to withstand the pressures generated by the 45 Super without modification. A heavier recoil spring and a shock buffer are commonly required to mitigate the increased forces. While these are usually effective, it’s essential to ensure your firearm is compatible and the conversion has been done correctly. Always consult with a qualified gunsmith if you’re unsure. Some shooters might find that they are limited in the types of .45 ACP frames they can apply the 45 Super round to.
The 460 Rowland brings its own set of challenges. It requires a dedicated barrel specifically designed for the cartridge, making it impossible to simply drop a round in a standard .45 ACP pistol. Moreover, the recoil is significantly more intense than that of the 45 Super, which can make it challenging to maintain accuracy, especially during rapid firing. The cost of the modifications and the ammunition is higher than that of standard .45 ACP rounds. Ammunition availability is also limited compared to the .45 ACP.
The increased pressures of both the 45 Super and 460 Rowland mean more wear and tear on the firearm. It is important to regularly inspect components for damage, especially the recoil spring, firing pin, and frame.
Choosing the Right Tool for the Task
The ideal applications for the 45 Super and 460 Rowland differ based on their respective capabilities.
The 45 Super is well-suited for self-defense purposes, especially for those who want to use an upgraded .45 ACP platform. The increased power and improved ballistics provide a significant upgrade compared to standard .45 ACP loads. Additionally, the 45 Super can be a good choice for hunting small to medium-sized game in areas where the cartridge is legal and appropriate.
The 460 Rowland is a top choice for hunting medium-sized game (where legal) and target shooting. The significantly higher energy and flatter trajectory of this round make it a good choice at the range. Its increased power and improved ballistics extend the effective range and increase the terminal performance. The 460 Rowland is not typically a suitable choice for concealed carry due to its size, complexity, and recoil.
Prioritizing Safety and Following Recommendations
Safety is paramount when dealing with any firearm, and it’s especially critical with high-performance cartridges like the 45 Super and 460 Rowland. Always follow these guidelines:
Proper Firearm Modifications: Ensure that your firearm has been properly modified to handle the increased pressures of the cartridge. This may include a stronger recoil spring, shock buffer, or dedicated barrel.
Factory-Loaded Ammunition: Always use factory-loaded ammunition. Reloading these cartridges requires specialized knowledge and equipment.
Manufacturer’s Recommendations: Follow the recommendations of the firearm and ammunition manufacturers.
Training: Seek professional training to learn safe firearm handling, proper shooting techniques, and recoil management.
Conclusion: Selecting the Right .45 ACP Powerhouse
The 45 Super and 460 Rowland represent two distinct paths to maximize the power of the .45 ACP. The 45 Super, with its relative ease of conversion, balances power and manageability, making it a compelling option for those seeking a more potent self-defense load within a familiar platform. The 460 Rowland, however, delivers an unmatched level of performance, offering significantly higher velocities and energy, making it a choice for hunters and serious shooters.
If your priority is enhanced performance from your .45 ACP for self-defense, and you want a platform similar to original .45 ACP dimensions, the 45 Super may be your best choice. However, if maximum power and ballistic performance are your primary goals, and you are prepared to make significant modifications to your firearm, the 460 Rowland stands out as the superior choice.
Ultimately, the “best” cartridge depends on your specific needs and shooting preferences. Responsible gun ownership involves careful research, proper training, and a commitment to safety. Explore these high-performance options, consider your individual requirements, and make the choice that empowers you.
