Yes, the .45 GAP (Glock Automatic Pistol) is different from the .45 ACP (Automatic Colt Pistol) cartridge. Here are some key differences between the two:
1. Cartridge Design: The .45 ACP was developed by John Browning in 1905 for use in the Colt M1911 pistol. It features a rimless, straight-walled case with a large, low-pressure chamber. On the other hand, the .45 GAP was introduced by Glock in 2003 and was designed to provide .45 ACP performance in a more compact cartridge. The .45 GAP has a shorter case length and a slightly smaller diameter than the .45 ACP.
2. Case Dimensions: The .45 ACP has a case length of 0.898 inches (22.8mm) and a bullet diameter of 0.451 inches (11.5mm). In comparison, the .45 GAP has a case length of 0.755 inches (19.2mm) and a bullet diameter of 0.451 inches (11.5mm). The shorter case length of the .45 GAP allows it to be used in handguns with a more compact grip design.
3. Ballistics: In terms of ballistics, the .45 ACP typically operates at lower pressures and velocities compared to the .45 GAP. The .45 ACP commonly uses bullet weights ranging from 185 grains to 230 grains, while the .45 GAP typically uses bullet weights between 185 grains and 200 grains. Despite the differences in ballistics, both cartridges are considered effective for self-defense purposes.
4. Magazine Capacity: Due to its shorter case length, the .45 GAP allows for increased magazine capacity in pistols designed specifically for this cartridge. Glock pistols chambered in .45 GAP, for example, can typically hold more rounds compared to their .45 ACP counterparts.
It's important to note that while the .45 ACP is widely popular and has a long history, the .45 GAP has a more limited adoption and availability of firearms chambered in this cartridge. As always, when using firearms and ammunition, it's essential to consult the manufacturer's guidelines and ensure that you use the appropriate ammunition for your specific firearm.
1. Cartridge Design: The .45 ACP was developed by John Browning in 1905 for use in the Colt M1911 pistol. It features a rimless, straight-walled case with a large, low-pressure chamber. On the other hand, the .45 GAP was introduced by Glock in 2003 and was designed to provide .45 ACP performance in a more compact cartridge. The .45 GAP has a shorter case length and a slightly smaller diameter than the .45 ACP.
2. Case Dimensions: The .45 ACP has a case length of 0.898 inches (22.8mm) and a bullet diameter of 0.451 inches (11.5mm). In comparison, the .45 GAP has a case length of 0.755 inches (19.2mm) and a bullet diameter of 0.451 inches (11.5mm). The shorter case length of the .45 GAP allows it to be used in handguns with a more compact grip design.
3. Ballistics: In terms of ballistics, the .45 ACP typically operates at lower pressures and velocities compared to the .45 GAP. The .45 ACP commonly uses bullet weights ranging from 185 grains to 230 grains, while the .45 GAP typically uses bullet weights between 185 grains and 200 grains. Despite the differences in ballistics, both cartridges are considered effective for self-defense purposes.
4. Magazine Capacity: Due to its shorter case length, the .45 GAP allows for increased magazine capacity in pistols designed specifically for this cartridge. Glock pistols chambered in .45 GAP, for example, can typically hold more rounds compared to their .45 ACP counterparts.
It's important to note that while the .45 ACP is widely popular and has a long history, the .45 GAP has a more limited adoption and availability of firearms chambered in this cartridge. As always, when using firearms and ammunition, it's essential to consult the manufacturer's guidelines and ensure that you use the appropriate ammunition for your specific firearm.