15 Best 45 ACP Brass Reloading Components: Precision-Forged Rounds

The 45 ACP cartridge has established itself as a versatile and reliable choice in the world of handguns. It combines substantial stopping power with manageable recoil, making it suitable for both self-defense and competitive shooting. This article examines some of the top 45 ACP brass options available today, comparing their quality, reliability, and value to help you make an informed choice.

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ABUS 83CS/45 Rekeyable Padlock

This rekeyable padlock combines solid brass construction with a hardened steel shackle for lasting security. The corrosion-resistant coating and double-bolting system protect against both prying and cutting attempts. The master-key capability and quick-rekeying feature give you flexibility while maintaining high security standards.

Decorative Flat Brass Bar

This decorative flat brass bar adds a touch of elegance to cabinet faces and panels, with its simple yet sophisticated design. The bars, which measure 48 inches in length and just over 3/8 inch in width, come in straight sections that can be cut to size - making them versatile for various installation needs. When paired with decorative corner straps, they create a cohesive look that transforms plain surfaces into stylish focal points.

ABUS 83/45-300 Schlage 45mm All Weather Solid Brass

This solid brass padlock combines robust durability with practical security features. The hardened steel shackle and dual ball-bearing locking mechanism resist common attack methods, while the rekeyable cylinder allows easy matching to existing keys. The convenient Z-bar function lets you switch between key-retaining and non-key-retaining modes quickly, making it a versatile addition to your locking system.

ABUS 70/45 Brass Padlock

This all-weather padlock combines solid brass construction with a durable vinyl coating that protects against scratches and moisture. The self-locking mechanism secures with the simple push of the shackle, while double-bolting and a 5-pin cylinder provide robust protection against manipulation. The hardened steel or stainless steel shackles resist cutting, rounding, and other forms of attack, making this lock a practical choice for both residential and commercial applications.

K&S 234 Brass Strip

These K&S Brass Strips combine durability with shaping versatility, making them a practical addition to any crafting or modeling project. The pure brass construction holds up well to bending and cutting, while the 12-inch length provides plenty of material for various applications. Whether you’re building models, creating decorative pieces, or needing custom spacers or shims, these strips offer the flexibility and quality you’d expect from a crafting material.

ALADEAN 1/8” x 2” C360 Brass Flat Bar

Crafted from solid brass with a precise 1/8” thickness, this 12” bar has a clean mill finish that’s perfect for toolmakers and craftspeople. The medium-hard material mills easily while maintaining its sharp edge, making it an excellent choice for knife blade raw material. The fresh-cut edges may have slight variations of up to 1mm, adding to its authentic character.

ABUS 55/45 B Ka

These marine-grade padlocks combine solid brass construction with hardened steel shackles for lasting security. The 10-pin tumbler system and ball-bearing detente offer superior pick resistance, while the dimple key design makes duplication difficult. Whether securing outdoor gates, boat access points, or valuable storage, these locks deliver reliable protection against corrosion and forced entry.

ABUS 55/45 B KD

These marine-grade padlocks pair heavy-duty brass construction with a reinforced 1/4-inch steel shackle for maximum security against both theft and environmental damage. The precision 10-pin cylinder resists picking and duplication, while the dimple key design makes it nearly impossible for unauthorized copies to be created. Thanks to its rust-free internal components and protective healing and toe bolting, this lock maintains consistent performance through extreme weather conditions, making it ideal for outdoor applications where standard padlocks would fail.

ABUS 83/45 Solid Brass Padlock

Crafted from solid brass with a sleek chrome finish, this versatile padlock combines premium materials with robust security features. The high-precision cylinder can be rekeyed for added convenience, while the quick-shackle change mechanism allows for seconds of adjustment when you need to switch locks. Whether you’re securing a tool box or reinforcing a high-risk door, this lock delivers the reliability you’d expect from a trusted brand.

AP Products MEJ400 Liquid Lvl Vent Valve

The AP Products MEJ400 vent valve makes filling containers a breeze while keeping your liquid level in check. With both brass and stainless steel options, you get a reliable connection that’s built to last. The brass version’s knurled stem makes it easy to replace, while the stainless steel model features a handy t-handle for simple operation.

American Lock A40 Solid Brass Padlock

Designed for both marine and industrial use, these solid brass padlocks feature hardened boron alloy shackles and a dual stainless steel ball bearing locking mechanism. The 1/2” (38mm) wide design resists pulling and prying attempts while the five-pin APTC12 cylinder requires specialized tools for picking. Optional upgrades include rust-resistant brass shackles and Weatherbuilt protection.

K&S 249 Brass Strip

These brass strips make building and crafting so much easier – they’re flexible enough to bend into any shape you need, and the pure brass material holds its form well. At just over an ounce per strip, they’re lightweight but sturdy enough for serious projects like gun parts or intricate models. The 12-inch length gives you plenty of material to work with while the 0.064-inch thickness adds just the right amount of stability.

C260 Brass Sheet

This shiny yellow brass sheet, with its distinctive golden hue, makes an interesting addition to any metal collection. The lightweight sheet, measuring just over an inch thick and spanning ten by twelve inches, has a history in ammunition manufacturing, though its current purpose is purely decorative.

HSM Brass 45 ACP Once Fired

Handy 100-count box of once-fired 45 ACP brass cases that’s already deprimed, reamed, and finished to full length size – all you need to do is load up and shoot these premium-quality casing blanks.

Lee Carbide 3-Die Set

This reloaders toolkit features a three-die set for 45 ACP ammunition, including a sizing die with durable carbide construction, a seating die, and a powder-through expander die. The set also includes a colored spline drive breech bushing for each die, making it simple to distinguish between them. Additionally, you get a universal shell holder and powder dipper with load data included.

Buyer’s Guide

45 ACP brass ammunition cases offer several advantages for both new and experienced gun owners. Understanding the key features and considerations will help you select the right brass cases for your needs.

Brass Case Material and Quality

Choose brass cases made from high-copper alloys for better corrosion resistance and longer lifespan. The case walls should be consistent and uniform to maintain proper chamber fit and ensure reliable chambering. Quality manufacturers often use stress-relief processes to prevent case neck cracks and extend service life.

Headstamp Information

Check the manufacturer’s headstamp for quality assurance. Look for distinct lettering and a smooth surface. The headstamp location varies by maker, but it usually appears on the case floor. Notable manufacturers include Lake City (LC), Primaires (PP), and Federal Cartridge (FC).

Case Consistency and Inspection

Uniform case thickness and neck tension are crucial for reliable performance. Premium brass cases typically have consistent dimensions across all cases in a lot. Use a case sorter to identify any outliers. Visual inspection for dents, cracks, or imperfections helps identify potential issues before use.

Reloading Considerations

If reloading, consider cases with minimal forming neck compression for easier resize operations. Premium brass cases often have slightly larger necks for improved primer extraction. Proper case preparation includes cleaning, inspection, and conditioning with a quality case-lubricant

FAQ

What is 45 ACP brass?

45 ACP brass refers to the brass cases used in 45 ACP (Automatic Colt Pistol) ammunition. These brass cases are specifically designed to hold the pressure of 45 ACP cartridges and are widely used by shooters for reloading.

The brass cases undergo multiple uses before needing replacement, making them a cost-effective alternative to purchasing complete ammunition rounds.

How is 45 ACP brass different from other types of brass?

45 ACP brass is specifically engineered to withstand the pressure of 45 ACP cartridge firing, with tighter tolerances and specialized metallurgy. Unlike some lower-pressure or rimfire brass, it cannot be safely reloaded to the same specifications.

The alloy composition and tempering process of 45 ACP brass differ from other calibers, making it incompatible with brass from other pressure classes.

What factors affect the quality of 45 ACP brass?

The quality of 45 ACP brass depends on its source and history. High-quality brass comes from reliable manufacturers and has minimal defects. Proper annealing and treating processes enhance its reliability.

Signs of previous use, such as visible firing lines or significant neck stretch, reduce its suitability for reloading. Brass with sharp edges, cracks, or dents should be avoided.

How do I properly store 45 ACP brass?

Store 45 ACP brass in a cool, dry place to prevent corrosion. Use desiccants like silica gel to maintain humidity control. Keep brass organized by caliber and lot number for easy tracking of batches.

Regularly inspect stored brass for signs of corrosion or damage. Refrain from stacking cases too high to prevent warping and ensure adequate air circulation.

What are the legal considerations for buying 45 ACP brass?

Local laws may affect brass purchases, particularly for quantities that could be considered bulk buying. Check with your jurisdiction’s firearm regulations to ensure compliance.

Some areas require background checks for large purchases of brass, similar to firearm regulations. Always verify your rights before making a purchase in your area.

How do I choose between new and used 45 ACP brass?

New brass offers the highest reliability with guaranteed quality, while used brass can be cost-effective. Consider your shooting frequency and experience level when deciding between options.

For new shooters or casual users, new brass provides the best reliability and consistency. Experienced reloaders may find well-maintained used brass suitable for occasional use.

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