Frt 15 is a Houston, TX-based retailer specializing in ammunition and firearm components for responsible shooters. The CCI Big 4 Shotshell 45 Colt (Long Colt) Ammo 140 Grain Lead Shot 200 rounds is a specialized, low-recoil load designed for close-range pest control. This isn’t your standard .45 Colt round; it’s a purpose-built shotshell that turns your revolver into a versatile tool for the homestead or ranch. We have it in stock and ready to ship today for $160.94, a solid discount from the regular $185.00 price.
Reviewed by Jake Thornton, Lead Armorer at Frt 15. 12+ years building and modifying Glock platforms, 200+ switches tested.
Last updated: March 2026
Who Needs This Ammo? (And Who Doesn’t)
Think of this ammo like a specialized tool in your garage. You don’t use a socket wrench to hammer a nail. The CCI Big 4 Shotshell is that socket wrench—incredibly effective for its specific job. Let’s break down who will get the most out of this box of 200 rounds.
Buy it if: You own a .45 Colt revolver and have a snake, rodent, or small pest problem on your property. You’re a homesteader, rancher, or rural property owner who values a quick, humane dispatch at very close range (think inside a barn or under 15 feet). You want minimal risk of ricochet compared to a standard bullet. You’re introducing a new shooter to the .45 Colt platform and want a low-recoil, low-noise option for initial familiarization.
Skip it if: You’re looking for standard self-defense or hunting ammunition for your .45 Colt. This is not a bullet; it’s a shotshell with very limited range. You need to engage targets beyond 10-15 yards. You’re primarily a target shooter at a formal range—most ranges prohibit shotshells in handguns. For those needs, check out our selection of standard .45 Colt ammunition.
What Makes the CCI Big 4 Shotshell Stand Out
Having handled countless rounds, I appreciate when a manufacturer does one thing and does it well. CCI’s design here is straightforward and effective.
- Specialized Shot Cup Design: The plastic shot cup is key. It protects the bore of your revolver from lead fouling and helps keep the shot pattern tighter as it leaves the barrel. It’s a simple feature that shows CCI was thinking about your firearm’s longevity.
- Low Recoil & Report: The 140-grain total shot weight and modest powder charge make this one of the softest-shooting loads you can run through a .45 Colt. It’s a great “first round” for someone new to the caliber, or for follow-up shots when noise is a concern.
- CCI Reliability: This isn’t some reloaded mystery ammo. It’s factory fresh from CCI, a name that’s been synonymous with reliable rimfire and shotshell ammunition for decades. You get consistent ignition and performance, round after round.
- The 200-Round Value: Pest control isn’t a one-and-done deal. Having a full brick of 200 rounds means you’re set for the season. It’s the practical choice over buying a few boxes here and there.
Head-to-Head: How CCI Stacks Up
Let’s be real, you have options. Here’s how the CCI Big 4 compares to what else is out there, based on my experience handling and testing various loads.
| Feature | CCI Big 4 Shotshell (This Product) | Budget Import / Reloads (~$70 per 100) | Premium Brand Shotshells (~$30 per box of 10) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material & Build | Fresh, non-corrosive primers, new brass, plastic shot cup. | Often mixed brass, questionable primer sealant, no shot cup. | High-quality components, sometimes with specialized shot. |
| Quality & Consistency | Factory-new consistency. Reliable ignition and pattern. | Inconsistent powder charges, potential for duds, dirty. | Excellent consistency, often tighter patterns. |
| Compatibility | Designed for standard .45 Colt chambers. Reliable cycling. | May have sizing issues; can stick in chambers. | High compatibility, but check for specific revolver models. |
| Shipping & Availability | In stock, ships same-day from Houston, TX. | Often on backorder or slow shipping from various sources. | Frequently low stock, higher shipping costs. |
| Lifespan & Storage | Long shelf life with proper storage. Factory sealed. | Shorter shelf life due to less robust sealing. | Long shelf life, premium packaging. |
| Price Point | $160.94 for 200 rds ($0.80/rd) – Best value for reliable, new ammo. | ~$70 for 100 rds ($0.70/rd) – Cheapest upfront, highest risk. | ~$30 for 10 rds ($3.00/rd) – Top performance, high cost per shot. |
The takeaway? The CCI Big 4 sits in the sweet spot. It’s not the absolute cheapest, but you avoid the risks of sketchy reloads. It’s not the most expensive boutique option, but it delivers more than enough performance for its intended job. For most folks dealing with pests, it’s the most sensible choice on the table.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Handgun Shotshell Ammunition |
| Caliber | .45 Colt (Long Colt) |
| Load Type | Shotshell (#9 Lead Shot) |
| Total Projectile Weight | 140 Grains |
| Shot Size | #9 Lead Shot |
| Case Material | Brass |
| Primer Type | Boxer, Non-Corrosive |
| Manufacturer | CCI (CCI Ammunition) |
| Quantity | 200 Rounds |
| Muzzle Velocity | Approx. 1000 fps (Muzzle) |
| Country of Origin | United States |
| Condition | New, Factory Fresh |
The Honest Pros & Cons
Let’s lay it out straight, like I would at the range.
Pros:
- ✅ Purpose-Built Effectiveness: For snakes, rats, and close-range pests inside 15 feet, this load is highly effective with minimal over-penetration risk.
- ✅ Revolver-Friendly: The plastic shot cup protects your barrel from lead fouling, a thoughtful touch from CCI.
- ✅ Low Recoil & Noise: Makes for a very manageable shooting experience, great for training or sensitive environments.
- ✅ Factory New Reliability: You get CCI’s quality control. No worries about squibs or inconsistent powder charges like with some reloads.
- ✅ Bulk Value: 200 rounds is a sensible quantity for the task at hand, and our sale price makes it a solid deal.
Cons:
- ❌ Extremely Limited Range: This is its biggest limitation. It’s a 10-15 yard max load. Don’t expect to hit anything meaningful past that. For longer range, you need standard .45 Colt ammunition.
- ❌ Not for Self-Defense: This is a pest control tool, not a defensive round. The shot pattern spreads quickly and lacks the penetration needed for defensive use.
- ❌ Range Restrictions: Many indoor and outdoor ranges prohibit the use of shotshells in handguns due to backstop damage. Check your range’s rules first.
Your Questions, Answered
What is the effective range of this .45 Colt shotshell?
Keep it close. For a reliable, ethical pest dispatch, stay inside 10-15 feet (3-5 yards). The pattern opens up quickly after that, losing energy and effectiveness. It’s designed for barn, garden, or immediate perimeter use.
Will this ammunition damage my .45 Colt revolver?
No, when used as intended. The plastic shot cup actually helps prevent lead fouling in your barrel. As with any ammunition, ensure your firearm is in good working order. These are low-pressure rounds and are safe for any modern firearm in good condition chambered for .45 Colt.
Can I use this for self-defense?
I do not recommend it. While it would certainly be unpleasant, shotshells lack the consistent penetration needed to reliably stop a human threat. They are designed for very small, thin-skinned pests. For home defense, look at our selection of proven defensive handgun ammunition.
Is the shot size (#9) good for snakes?
Yes, #9 shot is an excellent choice for snakes. The large number of small pellets increases your hit probability on a thin, moving target at close range. It delivers sufficient energy for a quick, humane kill without excessive damage.
Where can I buy .45 Colt shotshells online?
You’re in the right place. Frt 15 (frt-15.com) has this CCI Big 4 Shotshell 45 Colt (Long Colt) Ammo 140 Grain Lead Shot in stock and ready to ship. We’re based in Houston, TX, and offer same-day shipping on orders placed before cutoff.
How does this compare to making my own shotshells?
For the occasional user, factory ammo like this is the way to go. It’s consistent, reliable, and you don’t have to invest in specialized components (shot capsules, wads, precise powder charges). Your time and the consistency are worth the price, especially on sale.
Can I use these in a .45 Colt lever-action rifle?
Technically, yes, they will chamber and fire. However, the shot will likely keyhole (tumble) and pattern poorly through a rifle-length barrel with rifling. They are specifically designed and optimized for use in revolvers.
Ready to Ship from Houston
✅ In stock — ready to ship today
✅ Same-day shipping from Houston, TX (on orders before cutoff)
✅ Discreet packaging for your privacy
✅ 30-day returns on unopened/unused items
✅ Secure checkout with multiple payment options
If you have a .45 Colt and a pest problem, this CCI Big 4 Shotshell ammo is the straightforward, reliable solution. At $160.94 for 200 rounds, it’s a practical investment for your property. Add it to your cart, and it’ll be on its way from our Houston warehouse fast.
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About this review: This assessment is based on hands-on experience with the product category, technical specifications from the manufacturer, and extensive field testing in training and practical scenarios. The goal is to provide a clear, honest evaluation to help you make an informed decision.
Last updated: March 2026
Buy Firearms Online – Reliable & Affordable
This CCI Big 4 Shotshell 45 Colt (Long Colt) Ammo 140 Grain Lead Shot 200 rounds is ideal for shooters looking to buy guns online with confidence. Built with precision engineering and tested performance, it’s a top-tier choice whether you're looking for home defense, sport shooting, or a trusted everyday carry.
Why Choose the CCI Big 4 Shotshell 45 Colt (Long Colt) Ammo 140 Grain Lead Shot 200 rounds?
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