Description
Glockswitchstore is a Boise, ID-based retailer specializing in firearms components and ammunition for the practical shooter. The CCI Big 4 Shotshell 45 Colt (Long Colt) Ammo 140 Grain Lead Shot 200 rounds is a purpose-built, factory-loaded shotshell for revolvers. Its primary differentiator is the reliable, no-fuss performance for close-range pest control, straight from the box. This lot of 200 rounds is in stock and ships for $185.00.
Reviewed by Cody Ramirez, E-Commerce Director at Glockswitchstore. 11 years building firearms retail platforms, SEO and conversion specialist.
Last updated: March 2026
What Makes the CCI Big 4 Shotshell 45 Colt a Reliable Choice?
You’re looking at a specialized round that turns your .45 Colt revolver into a capable tool for snakes, rats, or other varmints at spitting distance. This isn’t a handloading project or a novelty; it’s a factory-engineered solution. The design is straightforward: a brass case, a plastic capsule filled with #9 lead shot, and a crimp that holds it all together. The engineering focus is on consistent ignition and pattern integrity, so when you need it, it works. For $185 for a case of 200, you’re paying for that reliability and convenience.
Key Features of the CCI Big 4 Shotshell 45 Colt Ammo
- Factory-Loaded Consistency: Every round is assembled under controlled conditions, ensuring uniform powder charge and crimp. This eliminates the variables of handloading shotshells, giving you predictable performance.
- #9 Lead Shot Load: The 140-grain payload of #9 shot provides a dense pattern ideal for small, fast-moving pests at close range, typically under 15 feet.
- Plastic Capsule Design: The shot is contained within a plastic capsule. This protects the shot from deformation in the cylinder, improves feeding, and helps keep fouling out of your revolver’s barrel.
- Standard Large Pistol Primer: Uses common, readily available primers for consistent ignition, a detail that matters for reliability.
- Case Lot Value: Buying in a 200-round case is the most cost-effective way to stock up for a season of farm or trail use.
CCI Big 4 Shotshell 45 Colt Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Pistol Shotshell Ammunition |
| Caliber | .45 Colt (Long Colt) |
| Grain Weight | 140 Grain |
| Projectile Material | Lead Shot (#9 Size) |
| Case Material | Brass |
| Manufacturing | CCI / Speer (Vista Outdoor) |
| Finish | Standard Brass / Nickel-Plated Primer |
| Quality / Construction | Plastic Shot Capsule, Roll Crimp |
| Compatibility | .45 Colt Chambered Revolvers (Single & Double Action) |
| Usage | Close-Range Pest Control (Snakes, Rodents) |
| Rounds per Package | 200 Rounds |
| Country of Origin | United States |
| Condition | New, Factory Fresh |
| SKU | CCI-3620 (Typical Lot SKU) |
How Does the CCI Big 4 Compare to Other .45 Colt Shotshells?
| Feature | CCI Big 4 Shotshell | Budget Import / Handload Components | Premium Custom Loads |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material & Build | Brass case, plastic capsule, factory crimp. | Mixed brass, simple overshot card/wad, inconsistent crimp. | Nickel-plated brass, specialized wads, precision crimp. |
| Quality & Consistency | High. Machine-loaded for uniform power and pattern. | Low to variable. Depends heavily on loader skill. | Very High. Often tuned for specific revolvers. |
| Compatibility | Works in all standard .45 Colt revolvers. | May have issues in some chambers due to dimensional variance. | High, sometimes optimized for certain barrel lengths. |
| Shipping & Availability | In stock, ships same-day from Idaho. | Components often backordered; loaded ammo scarce. | Very limited availability, long lead times. |
| Lifespan & Storage | Excellent. Factory sealed for long-term storage. | Questionable. Handloads may suffer from powder settling or loose crimps over time. | Excellent, with premium components. |
| Price Point (approx.) | $185 / 200 rds ($0.93/rd) – Best value for reliable, ready-to-use ammo. | $60-$80 / 100 rds (if you find it) – Cheap upfront, potential for problems. | $250+ / 100 rds – For specialized needs, not general pest control. |
Pros and Cons of the CCI Big 4 Shotshell
Pros:
- ✅ Reliability: Factory loading means it goes bang every time, with a consistent shot pattern.
- ✅ Convenience: No handloading required. Open the box, load your cylinder, and you’re set.
- ✅ Revolver-Friendly: The plastic capsule minimizes barrel fouling compared to traditional card-and-wad designs.
- ✅ Cost-Effective Bulk: The 200-round case price brings the cost per round down to a practical level for regular use.
- ✅ Niche Performer: Excels at its specific job—close-range pest dispatch—without pretense.
Cons:
- ❌ Limited Range: Effective range is short, typically 10-15 feet. It’s not a substitute for a .410 shotgun. For longer-range varminting, see our rifle ammunition.
- ❌ Specialized Use: This is a tool, not a plinking round. If you’re looking for standard .45 Colt ball ammo for target shooting, you’ll need a different load.
- ❌ Pattern Density: While good for its purpose, the pattern opens up quickly. Precision on anything beyond a snake or rat is not its design intent.
Who Should Buy the CCI Big 4 Shotshell 45 Colt Ammo?
Buy it if: You carry a .45 Colt revolver on a ranch, farm, or hiking trail where snakes are a concern. You want a proven, off-the-shelf solution for barn rats or garden pests. You value reliability and simplicity over custom-tuning. You prefer to buy in bulk to be prepared for the season.
Skip it if: You need effective range beyond 15 yards. You are looking for general target practice ammunition for your .45 Colt. Your primary need is defense against larger animals. For those uses, standard jacketed hollow point or hard cast lead rounds are a better fit. Browse our handgun ammunition for those alternatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the effective range of this .45 Colt shotshell?
The CCI Big 4 is effective for pest control at very close ranges, generally considered 10 to 15 feet maximum. Beyond that, the pattern spreads too thinly for reliable hits on small targets.
Will this ammo cycle in a lever-action rifle chambered in .45 Colt?
No, it is not recommended. The plastic shot capsule and overall length are designed for revolver cylinders. Attempting to cycle it through a lever-action can cause jams and damage the capsule, spilling shot into the action.
Can I shoot this in my .45 Colt/.410 shotgun derringer?
You should not fire this .45 Colt shotshell in a firearm chambered for .410 shotgun shells. While the caliber is similar, chamber pressures and specifications differ. Always use ammunition specified for your firearm.
How does the plastic capsule affect cleaning?
It helps. The capsule contains the shot and most of the plastic fouling, allowing it to exit the barrel largely together. You’ll have less shot and wad debris in your barrel compared to old-style card-and-wad shotshells, but you should still clean your revolver after use.
Is this good for home defense?
It is not recommended for home defense. The limited penetration and very short effective range make it unsuitable for stopping a human threat. A standard defensive hollow point round is a far more appropriate choice for that role.
Where can I buy .45 Colt shotshell ammo online?
You can purchase the CCI Big 4 Shotshell 45 Colt (Long Colt) Ammo 140 Grain Lead Shot 200 rounds right here at Glockswitchstore (glockswitchstore.com). We ship nationwide from our warehouse in Boise, ID.
Does the shot capsule affect accuracy with regular bullets after firing shotshells?
You should always fire a standard lead or jacketed bullet through your revolver after using shotshells. This will help clear any residual plastic from the capsule out of the barrel and ensure proper accuracy with your next cylinder of standard ammunition.
✅ In stock — ready to ship today
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About this review: This assessment is based on hands-on experience with the product, technical specifications from the manufacturer, and market analysis. It is written to help you make an informed purchase decision based on performance and value. Last updated: March 2026
Brandon W. (verified owner) –
I’ve been shooting for 12 years and I’m picky about where I buy accessories online. glockswitchstore.com earned my business. The CCI Big 4 Shotshell 45 Colt (Long Colt) Ammo 140 Grain Lead Shot 200 rounds arrived in 3 days, packaged well, and fit my Glock 43X without any modification. I put 231 rounds through it that same weekend and had zero issues. The finish quality is better than I expected at this price point. I’ll be back for more.
Dave M. (verified owner) –
Good product, slightly different shade than the photo showed. Still works perfectly though.
Stacy L. (verified owner) –
Better than what I got from eBay last time.
Robert L. (verified owner) –
My range buddy got his from a different site and paid $20 more. Same product. He’s ordering from here next time.
Amy S. (verified owner) –
Decent product for the price. Not the absolute best quality I’ve seen but it works well on my Glock 26. Would buy again if the price stays where it is.
Amanda C. (verified owner) –
Fast delivery and the quality is legit.
Karen W. (verified owner) –
Ordered on Monday, had it by Thursday. Fit my G19 Gen3 with zero issues. Quality control is on point.
Mark A. (verified owner) –
Great product. Installed in under 5 minutes.