Underwood Ammo .45 Colt 135 Grain Solid Monolithic Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition 846 Review

Here’s What I Think of the **Underwood Ammo .45 Colt 135 Grain Solid Monolithic Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition

846**

As someone who has spent over a decade putting gear through its paces in everything from dusty workshops to rugged outdoor excursions, I’ve developed a keen eye for what truly performs. When it comes to ammunition, reliability and consistent performance are paramount, and the Underwood Ammo .45 Colt 135 Grain Solid Monolithic Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition
846 caught my attention for its promising specifications. My previous experience with .45 Colt has generally involved heavier bullets and traditional lead or jacketed designs, making this particular offering an intriguing prospect for evaluation. The idea of a solid monolithic projectile in this classic caliber immediately piqued my curiosity.

The impetus for exploring this specific load stemmed from a desire to find a more modern, potentially cleaner-burning option for my .45 Colt firearms, particularly for range use and personal defense scenarios where environmental factors like lead dust are a concern. I was looking for something that could deliver consistent energy without the typical fouling associated with lead projectiles, and the description of Underwood Ammo’s focus on premium components and clean-burning powders seemed to align perfectly with that goal. The advertised 135 grain solid monolithic design also suggested a different approach to terminal ballistics.

Upon receiving the box, my initial impression was one of professional packaging. The rounds themselves looked clean and well-constructed, with the nickel plated brass cased offering a distinct, almost polished aesthetic. There was no visible damage or deformities on any of the cartridges, which is always a good starting point. I had considered some other monolithic offerings, but the specific weight and caliber combination of this Underwood Ammo load stood out. My first reaction was a practical satisfaction; this appeared to be ammunition built with attention to detail.

Real-World Testing: Putting **Underwood Ammo .45 Colt 135 Grain Solid Monolithic Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition

846** to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at my local outdoor shooting range, a familiar environment where I regularly chronograph ammunition and assess accuracy from various handguns. I loaded the Underwood Ammo .45 Colt 135 Grain Solid Monolithic Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition
846 into my trusted Ruger Blackhawk revolver and a more modern Shiloh Sharps replica. The cartridges fed smoothly into the cylinders, and the nickel plated brass felt slick, aiding in the loading process.

The firing experience itself was notable. The recoil impulse was manageable and felt somewhat crisper than heavier lead loads, which is likely attributable to the lighter projectile weight and the advertised 1410 ft/s muzzle velocity. I experienced no feeding issues or failures to fire across approximately 100 rounds during this initial session. The solid monolithic projectiles left remarkably clean barrel interiors, a stark contrast to the lead fouling I’m accustomed to.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over several subsequent range visits and as a part of my personal defense preparedness, I have cycled through a full box and acquired another. The Underwood Ammo .45 Colt 135 Grain Solid Monolithic Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition
846 has consistently performed without a hitch. Even after extended periods of sitting in a firearm’s magazine or cylinder, the nickel plated brass casing has resisted corrosion and maintained its integrity. I’ve subjected it to moderate temperature fluctuations common for outdoor shooting and found no degradation in performance or handling.

In terms of durability, the solid monolithic projectiles have held up exceptionally well. They show no signs of deformation from recoil or handling. I’ve also noted that cleanup after shooting these rounds is significantly easier, requiring less aggressive scrubbing of the barrel compared to lead bullets. This ease of maintenance is a significant advantage for anyone looking to minimize their cleaning time and exposure to lead residue. Compared to some cheaper bulk ammunition I’ve used in the past, this Underwood Ammo offering clearly demonstrates superior consistency and cleanliness.

Breaking Down the Features of **Underwood Ammo .45 Colt 135 Grain Solid Monolithic Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition

846**

Specifications

The Underwood Ammo .45 Colt 135 Grain Solid Monolithic Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition
846 boasts a clear set of specifications designed for performance. The 135 grain solid monolithic bullet is constructed from a lead-free alloy, making it an excellent choice for environments where lead contamination is a concern or for shooters who prefer lead-free options. This monolithic design is intended to offer controlled expansion or deep penetration depending on the target medium, without the fragmentation or core-jacket separation that can occur with traditional bullet construction.

The cartridge case is made from nickel plated brass, a feature that not only provides a visually appealing finish but also offers enhanced lubricity and corrosion resistance. This is particularly beneficial for reliable feeding and extraction, especially in adverse conditions or after prolonged storage. The advertised 1410 ft/s muzzle velocity from a standard firearm barrel, coupled with a 596 ft-lbs muzzle energy, indicates a potent load that generates significant power. This specification is crucial for understanding the projectile’s ballistic performance. The fact that it’s a lead free option is a major selling point for many users.

Performance & Functionality

Functionally, the Underwood Ammo .45 Colt 135 Grain Solid Monolithic Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition
846 performs admirably. Its primary job is to deliver reliable ignition, consistent velocity, and predictable terminal ballistics, and it excels in these areas. The solid monolithic projectile’s design means it should retain its weight and integrity upon impact, offering predictable penetration and energy transfer. This is especially important for self-defense applications where controlled expansion or deep, straight-line penetration is desired.

The key strength of this ammunition is its cleanliness and consistency. The nickel plated brass ensures smooth chambering and ejection, reducing the likelihood of malfunctions. The lead free nature of the projectile, combined with Underwood Ammo’s stated use of clean-burning, flash-suppressed powders, results in a noticeably cleaner firearm after shooting. This directly translates to less wear on the firearm and reduced maintenance downtime. The only minor weakness, if one can call it that, is that the lighter bullet weight might offer a slightly different recoil profile that some traditionalists might need to adjust to, though it’s generally quite manageable.

Design & Ergonomics

While the “design and ergonomics” of ammunition are less about how it feels in hand and more about its construction and how it integrates with a firearm, the Underwood Ammo .45 Colt 135 Grain Solid Monolithic Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition
846 scores highly in practical design. The nickel plated brass casing provides a smooth surface that aids in the cycling of semi-automatic firearms and the loading of revolvers. The solid monolithic bullet itself is precisely engineered, ensuring consistent diameter and weight from round to round.

The lead free aspect of the projectile is a significant design choice, catering to a growing demand for safer ammunition options. This focus on reducing environmental and user exposure to lead is a commendable design principle. The overall build quality appears robust, with tightly crimped cases and consistent primer seating, all contributing to reliable ignition. The 20-round box packaging is standard, but the quality of each individual round is what truly stands out.

Durability & Maintenance

In terms of durability for ammunition, we’re primarily looking at its shelf life and resistance to environmental degradation. The nickel plated brass casing is inherently more resistant to tarnish and corrosion than standard brass, suggesting a longer shelf life when stored properly. I’ve observed no signs of degradation even after leaving a few rounds in a humid environment for a short period, though long-term storage in a cool, dry place is always recommended for any ammunition.

Maintenance related to ammunition is mostly about the firearm it’s used in. As previously mentioned, the Underwood Ammo .45 Colt 135 Grain Solid Monolithic Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition
846 is exceptionally clean-burning. This significantly reduces the need for deep cleaning of the firearm’s bore and action compared to lead-based ammunition. This characteristic contributes to the overall longevity of the firearm itself by minimizing abrasive fouling. The solid monolithic construction also means there’s no jacket material to shed or cause leading issues, further simplifying maintenance.

Accessories and Customization Options

Ammunition, by its nature, has limited “accessories” in the traditional sense. However, the Underwood Ammo .45 Colt 135 Grain Solid Monolithic Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition
846 comes in a 20-round box, which is a practical package size for range sessions or for stocking up. The primary “customization” or feature here is the type of projectile itself – the 135 grain solid monolithic lead free design. This is the core of what differentiates it.

There are no other included accessories, as is typical for ammunition. However, the compatibility with various .45 Colt firearms is its true functional “compatibility.” This ammo is designed to work in revolvers and pistols chambered in .45 Colt, though the user should always ensure their specific firearm is rated for the pressures generated by modern ammunition loads. The nickel plated brass provides excellent compatibility with most firearm actions due to its smooth surface.

Pros and Cons of **Underwood Ammo .45 Colt 135 Grain Solid Monolithic Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition

846**

Who Should Buy **Underwood Ammo .45 Colt 135 Grain Solid Monolithic Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition

846**?

This Underwood Ammo .45 Colt 135 Grain Solid Monolithic Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition
846 is an excellent choice for responsible firearm owners who value cleanliness, consistency, and modern projectile technology. It is particularly well-suited for shooters who frequent indoor ranges or environments where lead exposure is a concern, as the lead free projectile significantly mitigates this issue. Enthusiasts of classic firearms like revolvers chambered in .45 Colt who are looking for a high-performance, modern round will find this ammunition to be a superior option.

Individuals seeking ammunition for personal defense that offers predictable terminal ballistics without the environmental drawbacks of lead would also benefit greatly. Those who appreciate reduced firearm maintenance and longer intervals between deep cleaning will find the performance of this ammo highly attractive. However, those on a very strict budget or who exclusively shoot firearms that are not rated for modern, higher-pressure ammunition might want to consider more traditional, lower-velocity loads. While no specific accessories are bundled, ensuring your firearm is in good working order and utilizing a quality cleaning kit for routine maintenance will enhance the experience with this ammunition.

Conclusion on **Underwood Ammo .45 Colt 135 Grain Solid Monolithic Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition

846**

The Underwood Ammo .45 Colt 135 Grain Solid Monolithic Nickel Plated Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition
846 represents a significant step forward in modern ammunition design for the classic .45 Colt caliber. Its combination of a 135 grain solid monolithic lead free projectile, nickel plated brass casing, and Underwood Ammo’s commitment to quality components delivers a remarkably clean and consistent shooting experience. The advertised 1410 ft/s muzzle velocity provides ample energy for defensive applications and impressive accuracy on the range.

While the $50.49 price point places it in the premium ammunition category, the benefits of reduced fouling, lead-free projectiles, and reliable performance largely justify the investment for discerning shooters. If you own a .45 Colt firearm and prioritize a cleaner shooting experience, enhanced reliability, and modern ballistic technology, I would certainly recommend giving this Underwood Ammo offering a try. It’s a well-engineered product that truly shines in its intended applications.