Last reviewed: 2026-04-18 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, NRA-certified firearms instructor.
For cowboy action shooters and 45 Colt enthusiasts, the Winchester USA Cowboy 250 grain flat nose load brings historically accurate velocities and modern component quality to every stage. This 45 Colt (Long Colt) ammunition—often called the cartridge that won the West—pushes a 250 grain lead flat nose bullet to 750 feet per second, generating 312 foot-pounds of muzzle energy. Winchester loads each round in new-production brass with non-corrosive boxer primers, making spent cases ideal for handloaders who reload for single-action revolvers and lever-action carbines.
Performance at a Glance
The 250 grain flat nose projectile cuts clean holes in paper and steel, while the reduced velocity profile minimizes felt recoil in lightweight Colt Single Action Army clones and Ruger Blackhawks. At 750 fps, this load sits well below modern +P pressures, extending the service life of vintage and replica firearms chambered in 45 Colt. Brass cases shed easily from cylinder throats and lever-gun tubular magazines, and the boxer primer simplifies decapping during the reloading process.
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 45 Colt (Long Colt) |
| Bullet weight | 250 grains |
| Bullet type | Flat Nose |
| Muzzle velocity | 750 fps |
| Muzzle energy | 312 ft-lbs |
| Rounds per box | 50 |
| Case | Brass |
| Primer | Boxer |
| Corrosive | No |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| Lead free | No |
| Intended use | Range & Target |
| Manufacturer | Winchester |
This load pairs well with Colt SAA replicas, Ruger Vaqueros, and Winchester 1873 or Marlin 1894 lever rifles chambered in 45 Long Colt. Cowboy action competitors appreciate the clean ignition and consistent point of impact across multiple stages, while recreational shooters value the softer recoil and easy cleanup of non-corrosive residue.
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’re not willing to destroy, keep your finger off the trigger until ready to fire, and be certain of your target and what lies beyond it. Review the NSSF firearms safety rules for additional guidance.
- Verify ammunition compatibility with your firearm’s chamber and pressure rating before loading. Consult your owner’s manual or a qualified gunsmith if unsure.
- This ammunition contains lead components. Wash hands thoroughly after handling ammunition or cleaning firearms. California Proposition 65 requires notification that this product can expose you to lead, a chemical known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive harm. For more information, visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
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