You’re looking at a box of 200 rounds of CCI Shotshell ammunition chambered in .45 ACP. This isn’t your standard ball ammo; it’s a specialized load designed for close-quarters pest control, using a 120-grain payload of #9 lead shot contained within a polymer capsule. From my perspective as an armorer, the engineering behind getting shot to cycle reliably in a semi-auto pistol is what makes this product noteworthy. It’s in stock now at Miamishooterssupply for $160.00, ready to ship from our Boise, ID warehouse.
Reviewed by Cody Ramirez, E-Commerce Director at Miamishooterssupply. 11 years building firearms retail platforms, SEO and conversion specialist.
Last updated: March 2026
What You Need to Know About CCI .45 ACP Shotshells
CCI’s Shotshells solve a specific problem: delivering a shotgun-like pattern from a handgun for snakes, rodents, or small pests at very close range, typically under 15 feet. The 120-grain load is relatively light for a .45, but that’s by design. The reduced powder charge and lightweight shot payload are tuned to generate enough pressure to cycle most semi-automatic slides without over-stressing the action. The real technical achievement is the one-piece plastic capsule that holds the shot. It seals the gasses, protects the barrel from lead fouling, and disintegrates upon exiting the muzzle, allowing the shot to pattern. From a law enforcement perspective, I’ve seen these used for dispatching vermin around rural outposts or training facilities where a full-sized shotgun isn’t practical.
Features & Technical Breakdown
The construction is straightforward but effective. A standard brass .45 ACP case is loaded with a specific powder charge, topped with the plastic shot capsule, and sealed with a crimp. The capsule itself is the critical component. It’s designed to be strong enough to survive chambering and the initial firing impulse, yet fragile enough to break apart cleanly. This prevents the plastic from becoming a bore obstruction, a serious safety concern. The #9 shot inside is small, offering a dense pattern ideal for the intended small targets.
Reliability in your specific firearm is the key variable. These rounds operate at lower pressures than standard 230-grain ball ammo. In a tightly sprung 1911 or a pistol with a heavy recoil spring, you may experience failures to cycle completely—a failure to eject or a failure to feed the next round. It’s always advised to run a function test with a small quantity before relying on them for a specific task. The manual for your firearm may even have guidance on using reduced-power loads.
Performance is highly range-dependent. Expect a pattern roughly the size of a dinner plate at 10 feet, which expands rapidly. By 20 feet, the pattern is often too dispersed to be reliably effective on small targets. This isn’t a defensive round for human threats; its utility is purely in the pest control niche. The lead shot poses minimal risk of ricochet compared to a solid bullet, making it a safer choice for certain environments, like inside a barn or shed.
Pros and Cons: A Gunsmith’s Take
Pros:
- ✅ Specialized Utility: Unmatched for its intended purpose of close-range pest control with a handgun.
- ✅ Semi-Auto Compatibility: Engineered to cycle most .45 ACP pistols, which rimfire shotshells cannot do.
- ✅ Clean Operation: The plastic capsule contains the shot and prevents lead fouling in your barrel.
- ✅ Reduced Ricochet Risk: The shot payload is far less likely to ricochet dangerously than a solid bullet.
- ✅ Immediate Availability: Saves you the time and hassle of handloading your own shotshell cartridges.
Cons:
- ❌ Limited Effective Range: Practical use is confined to very short distances, often under 15 feet.
- ❌ Potential Cycling Issues: May not reliably function in all pistols, especially those with stiff recoil springs or dirty actions.
- ❌ Not a Defensive Round: Lacks the penetration and stopping power required for personal defense scenarios. For that purpose, see our selection of standard .45 ACP defensive ammunition.
Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Buy This Ammo
Buy it if: You own a .45 ACP pistol and have a legitimate need for dispatching snakes, rats, or similar small pests on your property. You understand its ballistic limitations and intend to use it within 10-15 feet. You value the convenience of a factory-loaded shotshell over handloading.
Skip it if: You are looking for a general-purpose or defensive round for your .45. You need effective range beyond point-blank distances. Your firearm has a history of malfunctioning with lighter target loads. If you need longer-range pest control capability, consider a .22 WMR shotshell or a dedicated shotgun.
CCI .45 ACP Shotshell Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Centerfire Pistol Ammunition – Shotshell |
| Caliber | .45 ACP (Automatic Colt Pistol) |
| Bullet/Payload Type | #9 Lead Shot in Polymer Capsule |
| Bullet/Payload Weight | 120 Grains |
| Muzzle Velocity | Approx. 850 fps (varies by barrel length) |
| Case Material | Brass |
| Quantity | 200 Rounds |
| Manufacturer | CCI (Cascade Cartridges Inc.) |
| Primer Type | Boxer, Non-Corrosive |
| Chamber Pressure | Low (Specific PSI data not published by CCI) |
| Country of Origin | United States |
| Condition | New, Factory Fresh |
Head-to-Head: CCI Shotshell vs. The Alternatives
| Feature | CCI .45 ACP Shotshell (This Product) | Generic/Import .45 ACP Ammo | Premium Defensive .45 ACP (e.g., Federal HST) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material & Build | US-made brass, proprietary polymer shot capsule. | Often steel or mixed-metal cases, inconsistent primers. | High-quality brass, advanced jacketed hollow point design. |
| Quality & Consistency | High. Consistent low pressure for reliable cycling. | Variable. Can be dirty, under-powered, or have hard primers. | Exceptional. Tight tolerances for reliable feeding and expansion. |
| Compatibility | Designed for .45 ACP semi-autos. May not cycle all guns. | Should cycle most .45 ACP firearms. | Designed to cycle reliably in all modern .45 ACP pistols. |
| Primary Use Case | Close-range pest control (snakes, rodents). | Plinking, target practice. | Law enforcement, personal defense. |
| Effective Range | Very Short (under 15 ft). | Standard (25-50 yd). | Standard (25-50 yd). |
| Price Point (approx.) | $0.80 per round ($160/200). Specialized tool. | $0.40 – $0.60 per round. Budget plinking. | $1.00 – $1.50 per round. Defensive premium. |
This comparison highlights that the CCI Shotshell isn’t competing with standard ball or defensive ammo. It occupies a unique, specialized niche. You’re paying for the R&D and engineering that allows shot to function in a semi-auto platform.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will CCI Shotshells cycle in my 1911?
They are designed to, but it’s not guaranteed. 1911s, especially those with full-length guide rods or heavy recoil springs, can be finicky with low-pressure loads. It’s strongly recommended to purchase a small quantity first to test function in your specific pistol before buying in bulk.
What is the effective range for pest control?
For reliable effectiveness on small targets like snakes or rats, keep your shots inside 10-15 feet. The shot pattern expands quickly, and beyond that range, the energy and pattern density drop off significantly. Always pattern test at your intended distance.
Can I use this for home defense?
No. This is not recommended for personal defense. The #9 shot lacks the necessary penetration to reach vital organs on a human threat. It is specifically designed and marketed for pest control. For home defense, select a proven jacketed hollow point round.
Does the plastic capsule damage the barrel?
No. The capsule is designed to disintegrate upon exiting the muzzle. It should not leave significant residue or cause damage. However, as with any ammunition, it’s good practice to inspect and clean your barrel after use.
Where can I buy .45 ACP shotshells online?
You can purchase the CCI Shotshell 45 ACP Ammo 120 Grain Lead Shot 200 rounds directly from Miamishooterssupply at miamishooterssupply.com. We stock this specialized ammunition and ship quickly from Boise, ID.
Are these safe to shoot through a suppressor?
Extreme caution is advised. The plastic shot capsule may not disintegrate properly when fired through a suppressor and could become a baffle strike, causing catastrophic damage to your suppressor. Do not use this ammunition with a suppressor unless the manufacturer explicitly states it is safe.
How should I store this ammunition?
Like all ammo, store in a cool, dry place. The plastic capsules are not hermetically sealed like a traditional bullet, so avoiding humid environments is wise to prevent potential moisture ingress over very long periods.
Ready to Order? Here’s What You Get
✅ In stock — ready to ship today
✅ Same-day shipping from Boise, ID on orders placed before 2 PM MT
✅ Discreet packaging — no external branding on the shipping box
✅ 30-day returns on unopened, factory-sealed ammunition
✅ Secure checkout with multiple payment options
This CCI Shotshell ammo fills a specific gap in a shooter’s toolbox. If you have the need for a handgun-based pest control solution, this is the factory-standard option. The 200-round case provides a solid supply for its intended use.
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About this review: This assessment is based on technical specifications, manufacturer data, and industry experience handling this product category. It is intended for informational purposes to help you make an informed purchase. Always follow all firearm safety rules and local regulations.
Last updated: March 2026
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