Can You Shoot .45 GAP in a .45 ACP? A Definitive Answer
The short answer is no, you absolutely should not attempt to shoot .45 GAP ammunition in a .45 ACP firearm. Doing so could result in serious injury or death. While the names sound similar, and the cartridges share a similar overall length, they are fundamentally different and incompatible.
Here's why:
Understanding the Differences Between .45 ACP and .45 GAP
The .45 Automatic Colt Pistol (.45 ACP) and the .45 GAP (Glyde Automatic Pistol) cartridges, despite their similar names, have key distinctions that make them unsafe to interchange:
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Case Length: The most crucial difference lies in the cartridge case length. The .45 GAP has a significantly shorter case than the .45 ACP. Attempting to chamber a shorter .45 GAP round in a firearm designed for the longer .45 ACP cartridge will leave a considerable gap between the cartridge's base and the breech face. This gap can lead to catastrophic failure.
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Case Shape: While less noticeable at a glance, the case shape also differs subtly. These subtle differences in the case design could cause further issues related to feeding and ejection.
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Pressure: Although both cartridges operate at relatively high pressures, slight differences could also cause problems due to the shorter case of the .45 GAP, which can contribute to unexpected pressure build-up when fired in a .45 ACP chamber.
Risks of Mismatched Ammunition
Shooting .45 GAP in a .45 ACP firearm presents several significant risks:
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Bullet Misalignment: The shorter cartridge may not properly seat in the chamber, leading to a dangerous misalignment of the bullet before firing. This can result in a squib load (a partial or complete failure of the round to fire properly), or even a catastrophic rupture of the firearm.
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Chamber Pressure: The firearm may not be able to effectively contain the pressure generated by the .45 ACP round. This can lead to a dangerous pressure spike, potentially causing the weapon to malfunction, explode, or otherwise cause serious injury.
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Damage to Firearm: Even if the firearm doesn't explode, the mismatched ammunition can damage internal components. This damage could render the firearm unsafe to use in the future, necessitating costly repairs or replacements.
Importance of Correct Ammunition Selection
Always double-check your firearm's markings and consult the owner's manual to confirm the correct type of ammunition to use. Using the wrong ammunition is extremely dangerous and should never be attempted. The risks far outweigh any potential benefit, and the consequences can be devastating.
Remember, firearm safety is paramount. Responsible gun ownership includes a thorough understanding of firearm operation, ammunition selection, and safe handling procedures. Never compromise on safety.
