DoubleTap 45 ACP SnakeShot Defense – Versatile +P Hollow Point Shotshell Hybrid, 20 Rounds

Description

DoubleTap 45 ACP SnakeShot Defense is a hybrid load that stacks a 185 grain jacketed hollow point on top of a charge of #9 lead shot, all loaded to +P pressure in a standard 45 ACP case. The result is a round that can break up a snake or small varmint at close range and still put a full-size hollow point where it counts against a two-legged threat. Each box holds 20 rounds, which is plenty for loading a magazine or two and testing function in your pistol.

• One Cartridge, Two Jobs
• DoubleTap 45 ACP SnakeShot Defense Specifications
• Field Notes and Carry Tips

One Cartridge, Two Jobs

Most 45 ACP owners treat snake loads and defense loads as separate boxes. DoubleTap took a different route. Their SnakeShot Defense design starts with roughly 120 pellets of #9 shot ahead of a 185 grain JHP. At contact distance the shot cloud spreads enough to deal with a rattlesnake on the trail or a rat in the feed room, while the hollow point follows the same path and does the heavy lifting.

DoubleTap reports that the projectile penetrates about 10 to 12 inches in ballistic gel and opens to roughly .70 inch. That penetration figure is on the shallow side by design. It makes this load a reasonable pick for apartment or close-quarters home defense, where over-penetration through interior walls is a real concern, and for backcountry carry where snakes are a more likely problem than anything else.

Because the shot sits in front of the bullet, recoil and muzzle rise feel a bit different from standard ball. Plan to run a few magazines through your pistol before trusting it for carry, and confirm the rounds feed, fire and lock the slide back every time.

DoubleTap 45 ACP SnakeShot Defense Specifications

Here is what you get in each box, based on DoubleTap’s own listing for UPC 659465160387. Some distributor listings show a different grain weight, so the numbers below follow the manufacturer’s published data.

• Brand: DoubleTap Ammunition
• Item number: 45ASS20
• Caliber: 45 ACP +P
• Projectile: 185 grain jacketed hollow point
• Shot charge: about 120 pellets of #9 lead shot
• Total payload: 245 grains
• Gel penetration: about 10 to 12 inches
• Expansion: about .70 inch
• Rounds per box: 20
• UPC: 659465160387

Field Notes and Carry Tips

This is a +P load, so only use it in a 45 ACP pistol or revolver that the maker rates for +P ammunition. Older or lightweight frames may wear faster with steady +P use. DoubleTap also notes that SnakeShot Defense is not recommended for use with suppressors, since the shot can strike baffles.

Shot loads can be finicky in some semi-autos. Test the full box if you can, and check that your extractor and magazine springs are in good shape. Many owners load the first one or two rounds with SnakeShot and follow with conventional hollow points, giving them a short-range option without giving up deeper penetration for the rest of the magazine.

For hikers, ranchers and hunters who carry a 1911 or other 45 in snake country, this load covers the most common close encounters without switching guns or carrying a second cartridge type. Keep shots close, since the shot pattern spreads quickly and loses energy past a few yards.

If you want a single 45 ACP round that handles snakes, rodents and close-range defense, DoubleTap 45 ACP SnakeShot Defense is a smart addition to your range bag or nightstand. Pair it with a spare magazine and a box of standard JHP, and you have a flexible setup for both the trail and the house.

Want a deeper-penetrating carry round to follow it in the magazine? See DoubleTap 45 ACP 230gr Low Flash JHP, or read DoubleTap’s SnakeShot Defense product page for full load details.