Shorter than .45 Colt, developed for the top-break Schofield revolver. The Army issued both .45 Colt and .45 Schofield simultaneously — creating a supply nightmare since Schofields could not chamber .45 Colt.
Type: Revolver
Introduced: 1875, United States
Parent case: .45 Colt
Standardization: SAAMI
Bullet diameter: 0.456" (11.58 mm)
Case length: 1.1" (27.94 mm)
Overall length: 1.43" (36.32 mm)
Max pressure: 13,500 PSI
Rim type: Rimmed
Primer: Large Pistol
Typical twist rate: 1:16
Muzzle velocity: 700–800 fps
Muzzle energy: 250–330 ft-lbs
Effective range: 50 yd
Common bullet weights: 230 gr
Primary use: Military (Historical), Cowboy Action
Production status: Active
Also known as: .45 S&W Schofield · .45 S&W
History: Major George Schofield of the 10th Cavalry pushed for adoption of the S&W Schofield revolver. Its top-break action allowed faster reloading on horseback than the Colt SAA. The Army bought 8,969 Schofields but the incompatibility with .45 Colt proved a logistical disaster. Buffalo Bill Cody reportedly preferred the Schofield for its faster reload.
Notable firearms: S&W Schofield Model 3, Cimarron Model P Jr.
Military use: {"country":"U.S. Army","years":"1875-1892"}
Similar cartridges: .45 Colt, .45 ACP