Last reviewed: 2026-04-17 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, NRA-certified firearms instructor.
The Buffalo Bore 45 ACP +P 185gr Barnes TAC-XP sits at the intersection of velocity and mass for defensive handgun use. 45 ACP +P ammo pushes chamber pressure beyond SAAMI standard-pressure ceilings, and this load leverages that headroom to drive a monolithic copper projectile at 1150 fps from typical 5-inch barrels. The Barnes TAC-XP hollow point opens to approximately twice its diameter upon encountering soft tissue, while the lead-free construction meets California Proposition 65 standards and indoor-range lead-abatement requirements. Defensive shooters running 1911s, Springfield XD-M .45s, or Glock 21 Gen5 frames gain flat trajectory inside 25 yards and deep penetration through denim, plywood, and wallboard.
Load Profile
Buffalo Bore sources brass cases from domestic suppliers and loads to maximum SAAMI specifications for the +P designation. The 185-grain weight class bridges the gap between 230-grain ball—historically subsonic from most barrels—and 165-grain ultralight projectiles that sacrifice sectional density. At 1150 fps, this load generates 543 ft-lbs at the muzzle, matching many 9mm +P+ offerings while retaining .45-caliber frontal area. Boxer primers and non-corrosive propellants mean spent cases reload cleanly; shooters report consistent flash-hole concentricity and minimal case-head expansion after firing. Each box holds 20 rounds.
The Numbers
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 45 ACP +P |
| Bullet weight | 185 grains |
| Bullet type | Solid Hollow Point (Barnes TAC-XP) |
| Muzzle velocity | 1150 fps |
| Muzzle energy | 543 ft-lbs |
| Rounds per box | 20 |
| Case | Brass |
| Primer | Boxer |
| Corrosive | No |
| Lead Free | Yes |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| Intended use | Self Defense |
| Manufacturer | Buffalo Bore |
Defensive loads at +P pressure demand firearms explicitly rated for overpressure cartridges. Consult your owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer if chamber-pressure ratings remain unclear. Avoid firing +P ammunition in aluminum-framed pistols, pre-1985 alloy 1911s, or any firearm marked for standard-pressure .45 ACP only. For shooters seeking lead-free options that cycle reliably in modern platforms, this load delivers consistent ignition and controlled expansion. Browse additional defensive options in our 45 ACP ammo section.
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.
- Observe the four universal rules of firearm safety at all times.
- Verify current federal, state, and local ammunition regulations before purchase and transport.
- Copper-jacketed projectiles reduce lead exposure; wash hands after handling ammunition or spent brass.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.