45 Auto vs 45 Gap: A Comprehensive Comparison

What is a 45 Auto?

The .45 Auto is a semi-automatic pistol cartridge first developed in 1905 for use with the M1911 pistol. The .45 Auto is one of the most popular pistol cartridges in the world and is a favorite among law enforcement and military personnel. The .45 Auto is a relatively large round, measuring 11.43x23mm and is capable of propelling a 230 grain bullet at a velocity of 850 feet per second. It is well known for its stopping power and accuracy, making it an ideal choice for self-defense and target shooting.

What is a 45 Gap?

The .45 GAP (Glock Automatic Pistol) is a pistol cartridge developed by Glock for their GAP series of pistols in 2003. The .45 GAP is similar in size to the .45 Auto, measuring 11.28x21.5mm, but uses a different bullet design and has a slightly lower velocity of 830 feet per second. The .45 GAP is designed to provide the same stopping power of the .45 Auto while allowing the use of a smaller frame pistol. While the .45 GAP is not as popular as the .45 Auto, it is still a popular choice among those looking for a compact, powerful pistol cartridge.

45 Auto vs 45 Gap: Cost

The cost of both the .45 Auto and .45 GAP cartridges is relatively similar. The .45 Auto is typically slightly less expensive, with a box of 50 rounds costing around $25, while the .45 GAP is typically around $30 for a box of 50 rounds.

45 Auto vs 45 Gap: Recoil

The .45 Auto has a slightly higher recoil than the .45 GAP due to the larger size and higher velocity of the cartridge. The .45 Auto has a moderate recoil that is manageable for most shooters, while the .45 GAP has a slightly lower recoil that is more manageable for smaller framed shooters or those with less experience.

45 Auto vs 45 Gap: Accuracy

The .45 Auto is known for its accuracy, and is capable of producing very tight groupings at distances of up to 25 yards. The .45 GAP is also an accurate round, but not as accurate as the .45 Auto. The .45 GAP is still capable of producing tight groupings at distances of up to 25 yards, but may not be as accurate at longer distances.

45 Auto vs 45 Gap: Stopping Power

Both the .45 Auto and .45 GAP are well known for their stopping power. The .45 Auto is capable of producing large wound channels and penetrating deep into a target due to its larger size and higher velocity. The .45 GAP is also capable of producing large wound channels, but may not penetrate as deeply due to its smaller size and lower velocity.

Conclusion

The .45 Auto vs 45 GAP debate is largely a matter of personal preference. Both cartridges are powerful and accurate, and are capable of producing tight groupings at distances of up to 25 yards. The .45 Auto is slightly more expensive and has a slightly higher recoil, but is also more accurate and has better stopping power. The .45 GAP is cheaper, has less recoil, but is not as accurate or powerful. Ultimately, the decision of which cartridge to choose comes down to the individual shooter and their needs.