Last reviewed: 2026-04-17 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, NRA-certified firearms instructor.
The Black Hills HoneyBadger 45 ACP self-defense ammo employs a 135-grain Lehigh Xtreme Defense fluted projectile that cuts through tissue rather than expanding like a traditional hollow point. This design eliminates the risk of plugging with fabric or drywall, delivering reliable penetration in real-world defensive encounters. At 1250 fps from a 5-inch barrel, the load produces 469 ft-lbs of muzzle energy—velocity that drives the fluted edges through barriers while the homogenous copper construction ensures consistent weight retention. Black Hills manufactures this ammunition to military and competitive-shooter standards, using new brass cases, non-corrosive Boxer primers, and lead-free components that comply with indoor-range restrictions and California Proposition 65.
Load Profile
Black Hills partners with Lehigh Defense to produce a projectile with radial flutes machined into the ogive and sharp cutting edges at the nose. Upon impact, tissue is sheared and redirected outward by the flutes, creating a permanent wound channel without requiring expansion. This geometry remains effective after passing through heavy clothing, auto glass, or interior walls—scenarios where conventional hollow points can fail to open. The 135-grain weight sits lighter than traditional 230-grain ball but heavier than most +P defensive loads, offering a balance of velocity and recoil management in full-size and compact 1911 and double-stack 45 ACP pistols.
The Numbers
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 45 ACP |
| Bullet weight | 135 grains |
| Bullet type | Lehigh Xtreme Defense Fluted (lead-free copper) |
| Muzzle velocity | 1250 fps |
| Muzzle energy | 469 ft-lbs |
| Rounds/box | 20 |
| Case | Brass (reloadable) |
| Primer | Boxer |
| Corrosive | No |
| Intended use | Self Defense |
| Manufacturer | Black Hills (USA) |
Black Hills loads this ammunition to the same tolerances used in their military contracts and match-grade rifle cartridges. The fluted projectile’s geometry is replicated shot-to-shot through CNC manufacturing, ensuring consistent point-of-aim from magazine to magazine. Reloadable brass cases extend training budgets for shooters who handload, while the lead-free composition allows unrestricted use at indoor ranges and in jurisdictions with lead bans. Pair this load with 45 ACP ammo in heavier ball weights for range work, then carry the HoneyBadger for defensive carry.
Safe Handling & Compliance
Federal law requires purchasers to be at least 18 years old for rifle and shotgun ammunition, and at least 21 for handgun ammunition. Ammunition cannot be shipped to certain states, counties, and cities — review our ammunition shipping restrictions before ordering. Store ammunition in a cool, dry location away from heat sources and out of reach of unauthorized users.
- Follow the four rules of firearm safety at all times — treat every firearm as loaded, never point at anything you are not willing to destroy, keep your finger off the trigger until ready to fire, and be certain of your target and what lies beyond.
- Verify that your state, county, and municipality allow possession of this ammunition. Some jurisdictions restrict or prohibit hollow-point and fragmenting defensive ammunition.
- Store this ammunition in its original packaging to prevent mixing with practice loads. The lighter 135-grain projectile shoots to a different point of impact than 230-grain ball — zero your pistol with the defensive load you intend to carry.
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