The designation 45-110 refers to a historical black powder firearm cartridge, specifically describing a .45 caliber bullet propelled by a charge of 110 grains of black powder. It is a term deeply rooted in late 19th-century cartridge nomenclature, often indicating the caliber and the standard black powder load.
Understanding the 45-110 Designation
Historically, many black powder cartridges were named using a combination of the bullet's caliber and the weight of the powder charge in grains. The "45-110" is a prime example of this system, providing immediate information about the cartridge's key specifications. It signifies a powerful load designed for large-bore rifles of its era.
- Caliber (.45): The first number, "45," indicates the approximate diameter of the bullet, which is .45 inches. This falls into the category of large-caliber rifle cartridges.
- Powder Charge (110): The second number, "110," denotes the weight of the black powder propellant charge in grains. A 110-grain charge was substantial, indicative of a cartridge designed for significant power and range.
Not a Standard Headstamp
It is important to note that "45-110" was often more of a descriptive term for a specific loading rather than an official cartridge designation or a common headstamp found on the brass casing itself. For instance, the 45/110 Winchester was not typically marked as such on the cartridge head. Instead, it described a cartridge built around the .45 2 7/8 case loaded with 110 grains of black powder. This particular case length (.45 caliber and 2 and 7/8 inches long) housed the substantial black powder charge, delivering potent performance for long-range shooting and big-game hunting during its time.
This descriptive naming convention was common for cartridges used in iconic firearms of the period, such as those produced by Sharps or Winchester, highlighting the specific characteristics of the ammunition for shooters and reloaders.
