Last reviewed: 2026-04-17 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, NRA-certified firearms instructor.
Federal Personal Defense Punch 45 ACP ammunition brings a 230 grain jacketed hollow point to the carry world at a price point below premium duty loads. Federal engineered the Punch line to bridge the gap between ball ammo and high-end defensive rounds—skived jacket design promotes expansion while the soft lead core ensures penetration meets FBI protocol minimums. At 890 feet per second from a 5-inch test barrel, this load generates 404 foot-pounds of energy. The 45 ACP cartridge is a semi-automatic pistol round adopted by the U.S. military in 1911 and remains a staple in defensive handguns for its large-diameter bullet and subsonic velocity. Federal chambers this round in boxer-primed brass cases with sealed primers for reliable ignition and feeding in 1911s, Glocks, and other 45 ACP platforms.
Built for the Box
Federal draws from decades of defensive ammunition engineering to construct the Punch bullet. The skived jacket—cuts machined into the copper jacket—controls expansion by creating pre-determined peel points. The soft lead core deforms on impact, driving petals outward while the shank retains mass for continued penetration. This design outperforms comparably priced competitor hollow points in FBI-standard testing through denim, plywood, and wallboard. Brass cases deliver consistent chambering across magazine types, and the boxer primer accepts reloading for shooters who roll their own training loads.
The Numbers
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 45 ACP |
| Bullet weight | 230 grains |
| Bullet type | Jacketed Hollow Point (Federal Punch) |
| Muzzle velocity | 890 fps |
| Muzzle energy | 404 ft-lbs |
| Test barrel length | 5 inches |
| Rounds per box | 20 |
| Case | Brass |
| Primer | Boxer, sealed |
| Corrosive | No |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| Intended use | Self Defense |
| Manufacturer | Federal Premium |
This load fits 1911 Government models, Glock 21/30/36, Springfield XD-S, SIG P220, and other 45 ACP chambered handguns. For shooters running shorter barrels—3-inch Officer-frame 1911s or subcompact carry guns—expect velocity to drop 40-60 fps below the 890 fps factory test number. Browse our full 45 ACP ammo selection for training ball and match-grade options.
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 firearms safety at all times
- This product contains lead, a chemical known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects — handle in ventilated areas and wash hands after use
- Store in original packaging away from heat and moisture; sealed primers resist moisture but prolonged exposure degrades performance
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