.45 ACP vs GAP Pistols
When talking about guns, bigger is usually more powerful but not necessarily better. The .45 ACP (Automatic Colt Pistol) pistol is a common weapon that has enjoyed wide acceptance and use. Despite that, there are still many who dream of .45 performance in a smaller form factor. This is the main idea behind the .45 GAP (Glock Automatic Pistol) pistol. The only discernable difference between the two is size as the .45 GAP pistol is much smaller than the .45 ACP. The .45 GAP is often compared to a 9mm pistol.
A smaller gun is very beneficial if you do not want to advertise that you are carrying a firearm. Good examples of this are undercover cops or Secret Service agents who need to still blend in while carrying a service firearm in case of trouble. In fact, the development of the .45GAP was spurred by the request of some government agencies for a more compact form.
The ammunition used in .45 GAP pistols is shorter than those in .45 ACP pistols while still retaining the same diameter and bullet weight. The shorter overall length makes it possible to have a smaller grip. Many are confused about the compatibility between these two types of ammunition since they are of the same caliber. It is worth noting that the two are not interchangeable. A .45 ACP round would not fit into a .45 GAP pistol, and forcibly inserting one and firing can cause damage to the gun. Although a .45 GAP round may fit into a .45 ACP pistol, it is fairly dangerous to do so as the bullet was not designed for it, and the shorter case length creates a bigger gap to the rifling barrel.
In order to achieve the same velocity and stopping power of the .45 ACP, .45 GAP rounds operate at a much higher pressure similar to .45 ACP +P (overpressure ammunition). The increased pressure inside the barrel provides greater acceleration and more energy to the bullet. The downside of this is cost as .45 GAP rounds are more expensive than .45 ACP rounds.
Summary:
1.ACP pistols are bigger than GAP pistols.
2.GAP pistols are preferred by some government agencies.
3.GAP pistols have smaller ammunition than ACP pistols.
4.GAP pistols operate at a higher pressure than ACP pistols.
5.GAP rounds cost more than ACP rounds.