Last reviewed: 2026-04-17 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, NRA-certified firearms instructor.
Federal Gold Medal Match 45 ACP ammunition carries a 185 grain full metal jacket projectile at 780 feet per second, generating 250 foot-pounds of muzzle energy. Federal Premium designed this load for competitive shooting disciplines where consistent velocities and match-grade components determine group size and stage performance. The 185 grain bullet weight sits between the standard 230 grain service load and lighter 165 grain options — offering reduced recoil impulse while maintaining sufficient mass for reliable function in 1911 platforms and striker-fired 45 ACP pistols. Brass cases accept Boxer primers and reload cleanly, extending brass life across multiple firing cycles for competitors tracking cost per round during high-volume training blocks.
Built for the Box
Federal Premium manufactures this cartridge in Anoka, Minnesota, holding component selection and powder charges to tolerances tighter than standard-velocity plinking ammunition. Match-grade primers ignite uniformly, reducing velocity spreads that translate to vertical stringing at 25 yards. Competition-grade bullets seat concentrically in premium brass cases, minimizing runout that affects bullet yaw during initial flight. The full metal jacket construction feeds reliably through match chambers and maintains jacket integrity on steel targets — competitive shooting sees thousands of rounds downrange per season, and FMJ bullets resist deformation that copper-plated lead sometimes exhibits after repeated magazine cycling.
The Numbers
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 45 ACP |
| Bullet weight | 185 grains |
| Bullet type | Full Metal Jacket |
| Muzzle velocity | 780 fps |
| Muzzle energy | 250 ft-lbs |
| Rounds/box | 50 |
| Case | Brass |
| Primer | Boxer |
| Corrosive | No |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| Intended use | Range & Target |
| Manufacturer | Federal Premium (Anoka, Minnesota) |
Federal Premium sources components domestically and manufactures this load in the United States. Brass cases run non-corrosive Boxer primers — after firing, deprime with standard reloading presses and resize for subsequent loadings. The 185 grain projectile measures within SAAMI specs for 45 ACP overall cartridge length, feeding from single-stack 1911 magazines and double-stack polymer frames without modification. For competitive shooters building match ammunition libraries, this load pairs with other 45 ACP ammo options when practice drills require different recoil profiles or when rules mandate full-power service loads.
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 rules of firearms safety: treat every firearm as loaded, never point at anything you are not willing to destroy, keep your finger off the trigger until sights are on target, and be certain of your target and what lies beyond it.
- Verify that your firearm is chambered for 45 ACP before loading — headstamp and chamber must match. Do not attempt to fire ammunition in firearms not rated for that cartridge.
- This ammunition contains lead components. Wash hands after handling, and clean firearms in well-ventilated areas. California Proposition 65 warning: this product can expose you to lead, known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive harm. More information at www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
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