The tradition and history behind this cartridge is just one reason that this cartridge should be considered the best, however; it would not have the history it does if it was not also a highly practical and effective form of ammunition. The first evidence of the.45 Automatic Colt Pistol cartridge's dominance in practical terms is its stopping power, which has to do with the velocity, size, and impact of the bullet once fired from the cartridge and gun. Basically, "stopping power" is a way to talk about the damage that a bullet inflicts on its target, and the bullet that is a part of the.45 ACP cartridge has one of the best stopping powers of all bullets in its calls. Its size was finally decided on after much testing to maximize the penetration of the bullet and the damage it inflicts along with a loss of velocity, so that the bullet does not pass through the target and so hit other objects/targets unintentionally. It has the ability to penetrate quite deeply, however, making it especially effective in a defensive weapon as it does not hold up to much argument. Once a target has been hit with a Colt.45 ACP, they are not likely to keep attacking. The wound channel created by the bullet's penetration is also fairly wide, which again increases the cartridge's stopping power.

The.45 ACP cartridge's effectiveness practicality does not only matter to the target, however. There are also design...

Most pronounced in this area is the reduced muzzle flash and recoil that Browning developed and incorporated into the cartridge. This means that a gun firing these cartridges kicks back less in the shooter's hand, which makes the cartridge easier to use and improves the shooter's accuracy. The reduced muzzle flash also draws less attention to the shooter, so that in situations where the shooter needs to have some amount of secrecy, this cartridge is again the best choice. Overall, what make sthis bullet so effective is the balancing act in its design between power and ease of use; the bullet is strong enough to penetrate almost any conceivable target with significant stopping power, while at the same time remaining passive enough not to continue into other targets, and keeping the muzzle flash and kickback relatively low, improving accuracy and safety for the shooter while still sending the bullet forward with great force.
The balance that was struck in the design of the.45 Automatic Colt Pistol cartridge strikes the maximum efficiency between power and reliability, making it the best choice of handgun ammunition available even a full century after it was first created. The tradition, stopping power, and ease of use that the cartridge provides makes it an ideal bullet for all users, in many situation.