First Impressions of Wilson Combat Hornady XTP .45 ACP 200 Grain Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition A45-200-XTP-C 30% Off
The Wilson Combat Hornady XTP .45 ACP 200 Grain Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition A45-200-XTP-C 30% Off is a defensive round designed for .45 ACP pistols, particularly compact models. Marketed as a potent and controllable load, it utilizes the renowned Hornady XTP bullet known for its consistent expansion and accuracy. This ammunition promises a balance between stopping power and manageable recoil, making it an attractive option for concealed carry and home defense.
My search for the ideal .45 ACP carry load has been ongoing for years. I needed a round that offered reliable expansion, manageable recoil, and consistent accuracy in my compact 1911. The Wilson Combat name, combined with the proven Hornady XTP bullet, piqued my interest.
The packaging is standard for ammunition – a cardboard box containing 20 rounds. The brass casings look clean and polished, reflecting the quality Wilson Combat is known for. The Hornady XTP hollow point exhibits a deep cavity, suggesting consistent expansion upon impact.
I’ve used Federal HST and Speer Gold Dot in similar grain weights. The Wilson Combat offering seemed to promise a slightly softer recoil impulse, which is beneficial in smaller framed pistols. Ultimately, the reputation of Wilson Combat and the Hornady XTP swayed my decision.
My initial impression is one of cautious optimism. The ammunition appears well-made, and the promise of a controllable, high-performance round is appealing. I am excited to see how it performs at the range and in ballistic testing.
Real-World Testing: Putting Wilson Combat Hornady XTP .45 ACP 200 Grain Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition A45-200-XTP-C 30% Off to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Wilson Combat Hornady XTP ammunition at my local outdoor shooting range. The conditions were sunny with a slight breeze, ideal for accuracy testing. I fired the ammunition from a 4-inch barreled 1911 pistol at distances of 7, 15, and 25 yards.
The ammunition performed flawlessly, exhibiting consistent cycling and reliable feeding. The recoil was noticeably milder than standard 230-grain loads, making for faster follow-up shots. There were no malfunctions of any kind during the initial 100-round test.
Getting used to the slightly lighter recoil impulse took a few magazines. Once I adjusted, the pistol felt very controllable, even with rapid firing strings. The reduced recoil translated to improved accuracy and confidence.
The most notable surprise was the cleanliness of the ammunition. After firing 100 rounds, my pistol was significantly cleaner than after firing a similar amount of other brands of .45 ACP ammunition.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of sporadic use, the Wilson Combat Hornady XTP ammunition continues to impress. I have fired approximately 500 rounds, and the ammunition has performed with 100% reliability. There have been no failures to feed, fire, or eject.
The ammunition shows no signs of degradation, even after being stored in various conditions. I have kept some of it in my range bag during hot summer days and cold winter nights. The brass casings remain corrosion-free, and the primers are still sensitive.
Cleaning my 1911 after using this ammunition is a breeze. The reduced residue buildup makes the process faster and easier. Compared to some cheaper brands, the Wilson Combat ammunition significantly reduces cleaning time.
The Wilson Combat Hornady XTP outperforms my previous carry load in terms of recoil management and cleanliness. While other premium defensive rounds offer similar terminal performance, the added benefits of this load make it a clear winner for my specific needs.
Breaking Down the Features of Wilson Combat Hornady XTP .45 ACP 200 Grain Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition A45-200-XTP-C 30% Off
Specifications
The Wilson Combat Hornady XTP .45 ACP 200 Grain Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition features a 200-grain Hornady XTP hollow point bullet. This bullet weight is lighter than the standard 230-grain .45 ACP load, resulting in reduced recoil. The caliber is, of course, .45 ACP.
The brass casing is of high quality, contributing to reliable feeding and extraction. It comes packaged in boxes of 20 rounds. The muzzle velocity is listed at 955 ft/s, generating a muzzle energy of 490 ft-lbs.
This combination of bullet weight and velocity delivers a balance between stopping power and recoil control. The sectional density is 0.141, and the G1 ballistic coefficient is 0.212. It is designed for both hunting and self-defense applications. The ammunition uses centerfire primers.
These specifications are significant because they directly impact the ammunition’s performance. The lighter bullet weight translates to less felt recoil, while the Hornady XTP bullet ensures reliable expansion and penetration. The brass casings and centerfire primers contribute to overall reliability.
Performance & Functionality
The Wilson Combat Hornady XTP ammunition performs exceptionally well. It offers consistent accuracy, reliable feeding, and manageable recoil. The ammunition is designed to expand reliably upon impact, delivering effective stopping power.
The ammunition’s strengths lie in its balance of attributes. The recoil is mild enough for comfortable shooting, even in compact pistols, while the Hornady XTP bullet offers consistent terminal performance. One potential weakness is the higher price point compared to some other defensive rounds.
This ammunition meets and, in some ways, exceeds my expectations. It delivers on its promise of reduced recoil without sacrificing terminal performance. The accuracy and reliability are top-notch.
Design & Ergonomics
The Wilson Combat Hornady XTP ammunition is designed with reliability and performance in mind. The brass casings are clean and polished, ensuring smooth feeding and extraction. The Hornady XTP hollow point is precisely formed to ensure consistent expansion.
The overall build quality is excellent. The ammunition feels well-made and durable. There is no learning curve associated with using this ammunition.
Durability & Maintenance
When stored properly, this ammunition should last for many years. The quality brass casings and sealed primers protect the powder and ensure reliable ignition. The brass casing is corrosion resistant.
Maintaining this ammunition is not required. After firing, cleaning the firearm is essential, and this ammunition makes that process easier due to its clean-burning properties.
Accessories and Customization Options
No accessories come with this ammunition beyond the standard packaging. The ammunition itself does not lend itself to customization. The compatibility of your firearm with this ammunition can be improved with aftermarket barrels.
The ammunition is compatible with any .45 ACP pistol designed to handle standard ammunition pressures. Some shooters may choose to pair this ammunition with aftermarket recoil springs to further reduce felt recoil.
Pros and Cons of Wilson Combat Hornady XTP .45 ACP 200 Grain Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition A45-200-XTP-C 30% Off
Pros
- Reduced Recoil: The 200-grain bullet significantly reduces felt recoil, allowing for faster follow-up shots and improved accuracy, especially in compact pistols.
- Exceptional Reliability: The high-quality brass casings and primers ensure reliable feeding, firing, and extraction in various .45 ACP pistols.
- Consistent Terminal Performance: The Hornady XTP hollow point bullet is renowned for its reliable expansion and penetration, delivering effective stopping power.
- Clean Burning: This ammunition produces significantly less residue than many other .45 ACP loads, making firearm cleaning easier and faster.
- Wilson Combat Quality: Wilson Combat is known for its high standards and attention to detail, ensuring a consistent and reliable product.
Cons
- Price: The Wilson Combat Hornady XTP ammunition is more expensive than some other .45 ACP defensive rounds.
- Limited Availability: Depending on location and market conditions, this ammunition may be harder to find than more common brands.
Who Should Buy Wilson Combat Hornady XTP .45 ACP 200 Grain Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition A45-200-XTP-C 30% Off?
This ammunition is perfect for concealed carriers who prioritize recoil management and reliable terminal performance. It’s also ideal for home defense, where controllable follow-up shots are crucial. Shooters with smaller hands or those sensitive to recoil will especially benefit from this load.
Those who primarily target practice or require the absolute cheapest ammunition available should skip this product. It’s a premium defensive round meant for serious applications, not casual plinking. Individuals who prefer heavier bullets may also wish to seek other alternatives.
A high-quality holster is a must-have accessory to ensure safe and comfortable concealed carry. Aftermarket recoil springs, though not strictly necessary, can further enhance recoil reduction.
Conclusion on Wilson Combat Hornady XTP .45 ACP 200 Grain Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition A45-200-XTP-C 30% Off
The Wilson Combat Hornady XTP .45 ACP 200 Grain Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition A45-200-XTP-C 30% Off is an excellent defensive round that delivers on its promises. It offers a superb balance of reduced recoil, reliable performance, and consistent accuracy. The quality of the ammunition is apparent from the moment you open the box, and this quality translates directly to performance at the range.
While the price is higher than some alternatives, the value is justified by the superior performance and reliability. The peace of mind knowing you have a dependable and effective defensive load is worth the investment. It is even more compelling with the current 30% Off discount.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this ammunition to anyone seeking a premium .45 ACP defensive load. If you are looking for a .45 ACP round that you can depend on, then look no further. Take advantage of the 30% Off discount while it lasts and experience the Wilson Combat difference!