First Impressions of Wilson Combat Remanufactured .45 ACP 200 Grain Hornady HAP Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition, 850 FPS RA45-200-HAP 12% Off
The promise of match-grade accuracy at a reasonable price point always piques my interest, especially when it comes to .45 ACP ammunition. Wilson Combat, a name synonymous with quality 1911s and related accessories, offering remanufactured ammunition loaded with Hornady HAP bullets is a compelling proposition. I was immediately intrigued by the combination of premium components and the cost savings associated with remanufactured ammunition.
My search for consistent, accurate .45 ACP rounds for both training and local competitions led me to this product. I’ve been using a variety of factory and hand-loaded ammunition, but I’ve been chasing that elusive sweet spot of performance and value. The claim that these rounds are optimized for the 1911 platform, specifically, resonated strongly with me as I primarily shoot a custom 1911.
Upon receiving the Wilson Combat Remanufactured .45 ACP 200 Grain Hornady HAP Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition, 850 FPS RA45-200-HAP 12% Off, the packaging was functional and straightforward. The brass casings appeared clean and well-polished, indicative of a meticulous remanufacturing process. The 200-grain Hornady HAP bullets are a known quantity for accuracy, and seeing them seated consistently in the brass gave me confidence.
I’ve considered other remanufactured ammunition from brands like Freedom Munitions and Atlanta Arms, as well as new ammunition from Federal and CCI. Ultimately, the Wilson Combat offering stood out because of the Hornady HAP bullet choice and the Wilson Combat reputation for quality control. My initial excitement stemmed from the potential to get near-handload performance from factory ammunition, at a more accessible price.
Frankly, my first impression was cautiously optimistic. Remanufactured ammunition can be a gamble, but the Wilson Combat name and the use of premium components suggested a higher level of quality than typical remanufactured offerings. I was eager to hit the range and see if the ammunition lived up to its promise.
Real-World Testing: Putting Wilson Combat Remanufactured .45 ACP 200 Grain Hornady HAP Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition, 850 FPS RA45-200-HAP 12% Off to the Test
First Use Experience
My first range session with the Wilson Combat Remanufactured .45 ACP 200 Grain Hornady HAP Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition, 850 FPS RA45-200-HAP 12% Off was at my local outdoor range. I primarily shot from 15 and 25 yards, using my custom 1911 with a red dot sight. The weather was clear and mild, ideal for testing ammunition.
The ammunition performed admirably, exhibiting consistent cycling and manageable recoil. I did not experience any malfunctions – no failures to feed, fire, or eject – through the first 200 rounds. The accuracy was also immediately apparent, with tight groupings forming on my targets.
The recoil felt slightly snappier than my usual 230-grain loads, but that was expected given the lighter bullet weight and higher velocity. One minor surprise was the slightly increased muzzle flash compared to standard factory ammunition, but this did not negatively impact my shooting. I did notice that the ammunition burned relatively clean and the cases were easy to recover and appeared safe for reloading if desired.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months and approximately 1000 rounds of use, the Wilson Combat Remanufactured .45 ACP 200 Grain Hornady HAP Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition, 850 FPS RA45-200-HAP 12% Off continues to perform consistently. I’ve used it in several local competitions and training sessions, with no ammunition-related issues. There were no squibs, duds, or other serious problems.
The ammunition has proven to be quite durable, with no noticeable degradation in performance over time. I store it in airtight containers to prevent moisture exposure, but even ammunition that sat in my range bag for a few weeks performed flawlessly. I clean my 1911 after each range session, and the Wilson Combat ammunition seems to produce less fouling than some cheaper brands I’ve used.
Compared to my previous experiences with other remanufactured ammunition, the Wilson Combat offering is significantly better in terms of both reliability and accuracy. It consistently outperforms generic bulk ammunition and rivals the performance of some premium factory loads I’ve tested. This ammunition instills confidence, and it has become my go-to choice for practice and competition.
Breaking Down the Features of Wilson Combat Remanufactured .45 ACP 200 Grain Hornady HAP Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition, 850 FPS RA45-200-HAP 12% Off
Specifications
- Caliber: .45 ACP. This is a classic pistol cartridge known for its stopping power and accuracy potential.
- Bullet Weight: 200 grain. This lighter bullet weight contributes to a flatter trajectory and reduced recoil compared to heavier options.
- Bullet Type: Hornady HAP (Hollow Point). The Hornady HAP bullet is designed for accuracy and consistency, making it a popular choice for target shooting and competition.
- Cartridge Case Material: Brass. Brass is the standard for reloadable ammunition due to its durability and consistent dimensions.
- Muzzle Velocity: 850 ft/s. This velocity provides a balance between recoil and energy, optimizing for accuracy and quick follow-up shots.
- Muzzle Energy: 321 ft-lbs. This energy level is sufficient for target shooting and competition.
- Application: Competition, Training. This ammunition is ideally suited for both serious competition and high-volume training.
- Package Type: Box (400 rounds). The 400-round box size is convenient for range trips and extended practice sessions.
- Primer Style: Centerfire. Centerfire primers are known for their reliability and consistent ignition.
- Sectional Density: 0.14. This is a measurement of a bullet’s penetration ability based on its weight and diameter.
- Lead Free: No. This ammunition contains lead, which is important to consider for indoor range use.
- G1 Ballistic Coefficient: 0.131. This coefficient indicates how well the bullet resists air drag during flight.
These specifications are important because they dictate the ammunition’s performance characteristics. The Hornady HAP bullet, combined with the 850 ft/s muzzle velocity, delivers a flat trajectory and manageable recoil, enhancing accuracy and allowing for faster follow-up shots. The brass casing ensures reliable feeding and extraction, while the centerfire primer guarantees consistent ignition.
Performance & Functionality
The Wilson Combat Remanufactured .45 ACP 200 Grain Hornady HAP Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition, 850 FPS RA45-200-HAP 12% Off performs exceptionally well, delivering consistent accuracy and reliable function. My 1911 consistently produces sub-2-inch groups at 25 yards with this ammunition. It’s a level of precision I would normally expect from hand-loads.
The ammunition’s strengths lie in its accuracy, consistency, and clean-burning properties. The recoil is manageable, making it suitable for extended training sessions. One minor weakness is the slightly increased muzzle flash compared to some other ammunition, but this is not a significant issue.
This ammunition consistently exceeds my expectations. It is reliable and accurate, and the remanufactured nature makes it more affordable than comparable new ammunition. It’s a win-win situation for shooters who demand high performance without breaking the bank.
Design & Ergonomics
The brass casings are clean, well-polished, and free from noticeable defects, a testament to Wilson Combat’s remanufacturing process. The consistent bullet seating depth and crimp contribute to the ammunition’s overall accuracy and reliability. The weight of the ammunition is standard for .45 ACP, and the recoil is manageable for most shooters.
The ammunition is exceptionally user-friendly, requiring no special adjustments or modifications to function reliably in my 1911. There is virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The brass casings are durable and reloadable, extending the value of the ammunition. Stored properly in airtight containers, this ammunition should last for many years without degradation. The clean-burning powder reduces fouling and simplifies firearm maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Wilson Combat Remanufactured .45 ACP 200 Grain Hornady HAP Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition, 850 FPS RA45-200-HAP 12% Off doesn’t require any specific accessories, but a quality magazine is essential for reliable feeding. I use Wilson Combat 47D magazines with my 1911, which have proven to be exceptionally reliable. The ammunition is compatible with any standard .45 ACP firearm that is in good working order.
Pros and Cons of Wilson Combat Remanufactured .45 ACP 200 Grain Hornady HAP Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition, 850 FPS RA45-200-HAP 12% Off
Pros
- Excellent accuracy, rivaling hand-loads.
- Reliable functioning in 1911 platforms.
- Clean-burning powder reduces fouling.
- Remanufactured, offering cost savings compared to new ammunition.
- Hornady HAP bullets known for their consistent performance.
Cons
- Slightly increased muzzle flash compared to some other ammunition.
- Remanufactured ammunition may not be acceptable for some competition rules (check specific regulations).
Who Should Buy Wilson Combat Remanufactured .45 ACP 200 Grain Hornady HAP Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition, 850 FPS RA45-200-HAP 12% Off?
This ammunition is perfect for competitive shooters seeking accurate and reliable .45 ACP rounds for practice and matches. It’s also ideal for 1911 enthusiasts who appreciate quality and performance. Those looking for a cost-effective training ammunition that doesn’t sacrifice accuracy will also find this product appealing.
Individuals who require strictly new ammunition due to competition rules or personal preference should skip this product. Shooters who are primarily concerned with self-defense and prioritize expanding hollow points may also prefer ammunition with a different bullet design.
A quality 1911 magazine, such as the Wilson Combat 47D, is a must-have accessory to ensure reliable feeding. A good cleaning kit is also essential for maintaining your firearm and maximizing its lifespan.
Conclusion on Wilson Combat Remanufactured .45 ACP 200 Grain Hornady HAP Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition, 850 FPS RA45-200-HAP 12% Off
The Wilson Combat Remanufactured .45 ACP 200 Grain Hornady HAP Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition, 850 FPS RA45-200-HAP 12% Off offers an exceptional value proposition for .45 ACP shooters. It delivers match-grade accuracy and reliable functioning at a more affordable price point than comparable new ammunition. The remanufacturing process is clearly meticulous, resulting in a high-quality product.
The price is definitely justified by the performance and consistency of the ammunition. It’s a worthwhile investment for serious shooters who demand accuracy and reliability.
I would highly recommend this ammunition to anyone looking for a high-performance .45 ACP load for training or competition. Give it a try – you won’t be disappointed!