Speer Empty Handgun Shot Capsules and Base Plugs in 45 Colt (part no. 8785) let reloaders build custom shot cartridges in their own shot size and velocity. Fill the capsule with your favorite shot charge (not included), snap the base wad into place, and load it into your case like a conventional bullet. Speer designed these specifically for short-range pest and varmint control, not as a substitute for a proper self-defense load, and the same caution applies to firearms fitted with ported recoil compensators.

Key Specifications

• Sized for .45 Colt cases.
• Empty capsule — you fill it with your own shot charge (not included).
• Includes base plugs for assembly.
• Loads like a conventional bullet once filled and capped.
• Lets reloaders customize shot size and velocity per load.
• Intended for short-range pest and varmint control.
• Not recommended for self-defense use, per Speer.
• Not for use in firearms with ported recoil compensators.
• Packaged 25 per box.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does shot come included? No — these are empty capsules, and you fill them with your own shot, which is what lets you customize the load.

Are these good for self-defense? No, Speer specifically does not recommend these for self-defense; they’re intended for short-range pest and varmint control.

Can I use these in a revolver with a ported compensator? No — Speer’s own guidance says not to use these in firearms with ported recoil compensators.

Buy the Speer Empty Handgun Shot Capsules and Base Plugs, 45 Colt

Build a custom pest-control load exactly the way you want it. Order from our Lubbock, Texas gun shop for fast, insured shipping, and browse the rest of our reloading bullets selection.