Hornady 45 Cal 185gr XTP

The Hornady 45 Cal 185gr XTP^® is a fast, high-energy handgun bullet designed for reliable expansion and deep penetration across a broad range of handgun velocities. Tailored for self-defense, duty use, and hunting, this 185-grain projectile delivers outstanding terminal performance without sacrificing accuracy. Whether you’re carrying a compact .45 ACP or loading for a full-size platform, the 185gr XTP^® offers a blend of lightweight speed and consistent stopping power.

Its swaged lead core and precisely drawn gilding metal jacket combine to create a bullet that expands reliably while maintaining structural integrity on impact. The lighter weight compared to a 230gr alternative allows for faster muzzle velocities, flatter trajectories, and slightly reduced recoil—ideal for competitive shooters, concealed carriers, or those looking to maximize energy transfer at closer ranges.

Upon impact, the hollow point cavity initiates expansion, while internal serrations direct that expansion into uniform petals. These design elements ensure consistent performance even when velocities drop below typical thresholds, making this bullet well-suited for both standard and subsonic loads. The drawn jacket tapers gradually along the body of the bullet, offering strength without over-penetration, and the nose is fully enclosed in copper to reduce lead fouling and feed issues in semi-automatics.

A precision-formed cannelure ensures consistent case tension and reliable crimping, especially important when loading for high-pressure or defensive loads. Hornady’s attention to detail ensures every bullet maintains tight tolerances, shot after shot. Reloaders will also appreciate that the Hornady 45 Cal 185gr XTP is available in bulk bullets packaging, making it a smart choice for those loading in high volume without compromising on quality.

CONTROLLED EXPANSION

Precise serrations divide the XTP^® into symmetrical sections, strategically weakening the jacket and initiating controlled expansion even at low velocities.

NO EXPOSED LEAD

The gilding metal jacket protects the nose of the bullet, so the hollow cavity functions properly on impact and ensures proper feeding in semi-automatics.

SWAGED CORE

Total uniformity of core density ensures balanced expansion as well as in-flight stability.

DRAWN GILDING METAL JACKET

Expansion is controlled by varying jacket thickness down the length of the XTP, providing a definite advantage over plated bullets with a uniform jacket thickness over the entire bullet.

CANNELURE

On revolver bullets, the cannelure helps achieve accurate, consistent crimping. All cannelures are applied before the final forming process to eliminate any distortion to the finished bullet.

• .45 Cal 185gr XTP^® Hollow Point Bullet
• Ideal for Self-Defense, Law Enforcement, and Hunting Loads
• Lightweight Profile for Higher Velocity and Flatter Trajectories
• Bulk Packaged – Great for Reloaders Seeking Bulk Bullets

— This is not loaded ammunition! —

If you have any questions about the Hornady 45 Cal 185gr XTP or need help selecting the right bulk bullets for your .45 ACP or .45 Colt load, we are always here to help!