Last reviewed: 2026-04-17 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, NRA-certified firearms instructor.
Federal Premium 45 ACP +P HST 230 grain jacketed hollow point ammunition is the same duty load selected by law enforcement agencies nationwide for defensive handgun applications. Chambered in 45 ACP +P, this load pushes a 230-grain HST projectile to 950 feet per second from a 5-inch test barrel, generating 461 foot-pounds of muzzle energy. The HST bullet nose profile remains unobstructed when passing through heavy clothing, automotive glass, wallboard, and plywood — barriers that plug conventional hollow points and limit expansion. Federal Premium engineers the HST jacket and core to remain bonded through FBI protocol barriers, retaining nearly 100 percent of bullet weight while expanding to diameters that exceed SAAMI maximums for terminal effectiveness without overpenetration in tissue simulant.
Built for the Box
Federal Premium manufactures this ammunition in the United States using nickel-plated brass cases, non-corrosive Boxer primers, and jacketed hollow point HST projectiles. The nickel case finish reduces friction during feeding cycles in semi-automatic pistols, improving reliability in 1911, Glock 21, SIG P220, and Springfield XD platforms chambered for 45 ACP. The +P pressure designation generates approximately 10 percent more chamber pressure than standard 45 ACP loads — verify that your firearm is rated for +P ammunition before use. Each case is reloadable, and the Boxer primer pocket accepts standard large pistol primers during handloading operations.
The Numbers
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 45 ACP +P |
| Bullet weight | 230 grains |
| Bullet type | Federal HST Jacketed Hollow Point |
| Muzzle velocity | 950 fps |
| Muzzle energy | 461 ft-lbs |
| Test barrel length | 5 inches |
| Rounds per box | 20 |
| Case | Nickel-plated brass |
| Primer | Boxer, non-corrosive |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| Lead-free | No |
| Intended use | Self defense |
| Country of origin | United States of America |
This load passes the FBI ammunition protocol — a standardized test battery used by federal, state, and municipal agencies to evaluate terminal performance through barriers including heavy clothing, wallboard, plywood, and automotive glass. The HST projectile maintains structural integrity and expansion characteristics across all barrier types, delivering consistent penetration depth between 12 and 18 inches in 10-percent ordnance gelatin. For additional defensive handgun ammunition options, browse our full selection of 45 ACP ammo.
Who It’s For
Federal Premium 45 ACP +P HST 230 grain ammunition serves concealed carry permit holders, off-duty law enforcement officers, and home defense users operating full-size 45 ACP pistols rated for +P pressures. The 230-grain bullet weight pairs with moderate recoil impulse in steel-frame 1911 pistols and polymer double-stack platforms, and the 950 fps velocity generates sufficient energy transfer for two-legged threats without excessive overpenetration in residential construction. Shooters running suppressed 45 ACP pistols will experience subsonic report with this load — 950 fps remains below the 1,125 fps speed of sound threshold at sea level. Compact and subcompact 45 ACP pistols with barrel lengths under 4 inches will see reduced velocity and may experience increased felt recoil due to lighter slide mass and shorter recoil spring assemblies.
Safe Handling & Compliance
Federal law requires purchasers to be at least 21 years old 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 universal rules of firearm safety during all range sessions and handling operations
- Verify that your firearm is rated for +P ammunition — consult the owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer before firing +P loads in older or compact 45 ACP pistols
- This product contains lead, a chemical known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm under Proposition 65 — wash hands after handling ammunition and use adequate ventilation during indoor range sessions
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