I'm wanting a new .45auto

Love&Hate12 · January 13, 2007, 03:03 AM

I am mostly an enthusiast of the 9mm as being the optimum service cartridge for capacity, lower recoil and marginal stopping power(good stopping power in multiple accurate hits of course with expanding ammo).

But I do respect the .45acp greatly and especially the size and weight ratio, it's a big heavy bullet and most modern HP's tend to expand near the .80's, which is pretty significant from a pistol round as well.

I own a Sigarms P220 and a Glock21 and both are tack drivers, the cartridge is very enjoyable to shoot and I have studied a lot of the defensive ammuntion with the .45, my favorite being the 185+p and then the regular 230's.

I am wanting a new .45 with possible carry option, so that leaves out some of the double stacks like the big H&K .45.

Is it time for a 1911 to be added? Or is the SA XD a reasonable hi-cap .45 with the possibility of carry in cooler weather or full dress occasion?

Let me know what seasoned collectors think, I am in my early 20's.

mjrodney · January 13, 2007, 04:30 AM

There are any number of smaller size 1911 platforms to choose from, if a SA only is in the cards for you. If you intend to carry this type of pistol, first decide on how; cocked and locked or on an Israeli draw.

If you prefer DA, fondle a Ruger P345 for a while. It's light as .45's go, thin as in single stack, great ergonomics in the hand and it is totally reliable as a self-defense pistol.

Both of these sell well, so you shouldn't have much trouble finding them.

givo08 · January 13, 2007, 04:47 AM

The new HK45 has a compact version. Also, the G30 is a small but relatively pleasant .45 as far as recoil. Commander sized 1911's are nice too but a commander 1911 is actually a little bigger than your sig 220 (longer overall length, same height, same width).

kgpcr · January 13, 2007, 10:50 AM

The new M&P45 will be out very soon. I would take a look at them. I own XD's and glocks and i love my M&P40 and am going to buy an M&P45 as soon as they hit the street. They point like a dream and are utterly reliable.

**Shane Tuttle** · January 13, 2007, 11:12 AM

I own the XD .45ACP among your choices. Couldn't say enough good stuff without giving you a thesis.
However, if I was in your situation, I'd look into a quality, reasonably priced 1911. The main reason: Everybody's gotta have a 1911 in their inventory.

Springer's Mil Spec, Kimber Pro or Ultra Carry comes to mind. I don't know what your price range is and there are several other variables to consider in your purchase. Those are just a couple that I'd consider first.

HorseSoldier · January 13, 2007, 11:23 AM

+1 on the 1911.

The other .45 cal options that have been mentioned are certainly good as well, but like tuttle8 said, everyone should have a 1911 in their collection.

Jason_G · January 13, 2007, 01:24 PM

H&K USP compact .45. I have a fullsize USP .45, and I love it, but it's a bit big for carry (it could be done, albeit uncomfortably with baggy clothes), but the compact is quite concealable. Good capacity, the design is excellent, and from what I hear they are dead-on accurate. Definitely consider this pistol.

Jason

elwaine · January 13, 2007, 01:39 PM

The XD .45 compact would carry well. I have the XD .45 service model and that, too, can carry concealed without much difficulty, depending on your build. It is one sweet gun - large capacity, not as fat as most double stack guns, very accurate and reliable.

IMO, there is nothing comparable to the 1911. Just a personal preference about 1911's: get a custom gun (Baer, Brown, Wilson, STI, etc.) or get a non-custom, relatively inexpensive gun such as the SA MilSpec and send it away to a good smith for customizing. If you haven't critically compared the difference between a non-custom 1911 and a stock 1911, there is nothing I can say that will matter one way or another. If you have compared the two types, there is nothing I need to say.

Trapper L · January 13, 2007, 02:01 PM

You might want to give the Smith/ Wesson 4516 a look for a carry gun. These things are built like a tank and will last you forever. They are a compact but not necessarily light in weight as compared to a compact alloy frame. Most of the law enforcement guys around here swear by them and malfunctions don't seem to be an issue. It's among the very few Smiths I think are worth having. I'm looking for one myself.
http://www.kitsune.addr.com/Firearms...ls/SW_4516.htm
This should give you an idea about one.

BUCKMARK · January 13, 2007, 02:04 PM

Don't forget about the Kahr P45. Very slim and easy to carry.

Love&Hate12 · January 13, 2007, 04:10 PM

Some good insight here, I should look into all of them.

In terms of the 1911, which brand is known for out of the box reliability more so than others? Obviously it won't be any of the match guns due to the tighter tolerances.

Ant1 · January 13, 2007, 04:43 PM

You could get yourself a Wilson, Very accurate, reliable, great warrenty.

But expensive.

tony pasley · January 13, 2007, 04:49 PM

If you can find one a Colt Double Eagle 45 acp Commander, or full size, they did make a Defender size also. They are a great choice for carry weapon.

BigMak · January 13, 2007, 04:54 PM

Maybe I'm being assumptive here, but if you're in your early 20's money could possibly be tighter than for some of us older folks.

If that's the case, there's 2 .45's I would highly recommend:

1911: The new Taurus PT1911
CCW: Taurus's PT145 MilPro

I'm not necessarily a big Taurus fan (I only have 3 Tauri out of my 17 handguns) but these both have over 2500 rounds through them without any hiccups. Just my .02.

BigMak

Kermit · January 13, 2007, 06:17 PM

I shoot fullsize guns better than my compact guns but I do have a few compacts. That said, I really like fullsize USPs and Colt Gov't models for ALL THINGS 45 acp

Love&Hate12 · January 13, 2007, 07:03 PM

Yes BigMak, funds are always a little tight, but I am the type of owner that goes through guns, so I normally have some free cash for getting something different.

I keep things that I really shoot well and like, such as the G21 and P220, then I own two 9mm's and just sold a .38 special revolver as I am able to comfortably carry the G19, which is better firepower than a snub .38.

So I am not stretched at the moment and don't really own a whole lot of firearms compared to most guys who are really into shooting and guns.

The Colt line looks to be really attractive, the Springfield's are as well but most are overdone in my opinion, such as the Operator and what not, I think solid simplicity does well for 1911, just my opinion.

Some of the Kimbers look nice.

02PSD4ME · January 13, 2007, 08:16 PM

I would also suggest you take a look at the Taurus's PT145 MilPro. It is a fine pistol

hofstet · January 14, 2007, 08:17 AM

check out the Sig P220 Equinox in .45

JDG · January 14, 2007, 08:59 AM

You have a Glock, and probably are used to it, why not get a G36? I carry a P345, and love it!

**Shane Tuttle** · January 14, 2007, 12:05 PM

From your choices between the Springer, Colt, and Kimber:
I'd go with Colt 1st. Hands down. Especially if you're not afraid of the price. Just NOTHING bad to say about one of the original 1911 maker.
Springfield a close 2nd.
Third is Kimber. Great gun, but I can only give you heresay that customer service is not top notch right now and they tend to load up on features that may turn you off if you want simplicity.
I would still research those guns more.
I simply cannot endorse any Taurus product due to shaky quality across the board and resale value hasn't held a candle to the others mentioned. The PT1911 may end up being a good gun, but hasn't proven itself compared to a Colt, etc. IMO.
Buying a Colt is almost an investment these days.

hdawson228 · January 14, 2007, 01:13 PM

Plus one for the 1911, .45. SA if possible.

Ivory Grips · January 14, 2007, 09:55 PM

My choice would be Ruger's model P345. This weapon has a lot going for it. Fits the hand well. (at least mine) Slim, very good sights, light. accurate and reliable. And being a Ruger, its indestructible. There's a lot of quality in this gun, and that's not surpising because after all, it's a Ruger.

4719 · January 14, 2007, 11:02 PM

How about the Sig P220 "Carry"?

gac009 · January 14, 2007, 11:42 PM

G36
P220
P345

DataMax · January 14, 2007, 11:49 PM

Let's really make it difficult on this kid ... If you think you will carry it I would look for a used SW1911SC or a new SW1911PD. They are basically the same gun rebadged. The SC stood for Scandium frame, PD stands for Personal Defense but also has a Scandium frame.

Now ... here is the kick ... Scandium is as light as other alloys and damn near as strong as carbon steel ... and with a 4.25" barrel weighs in at 28 oz. Try and find another near full size 1911 that weighs that much or less ... I couldn't find any.

I own two Smith 1911s and realy like them ... a 1911PD and a 1911DK. I also have Para P13 Ltd and on my night stand you'll find an SA TRP. But for concealed carry in 1911 ... nothing beats the Smith PD.

IMHO (of course)

January 13, 2007, 03:03 AM	#1
Love&Hate12 Senior Member Join Date: October 13, 2005 Posts: 452	I'm wanting a new .45auto I am mostly an enthusiast of the 9mm as being the optimum service cartridge for capacity, lower recoil and marginal stopping power(good stopping power in multiple accurate hits of course with expanding ammo). But I do respect the .45acp greatly and especially the size and weight ratio, it's a big heavy bullet and most modern HP's tend to expand near the .80's, which is pretty significant from a pistol round as well. I own a Sigarms P220 and a Glock21 and both are tack drivers, the cartridge is very enjoyable to shoot and I have studied a lot of the defensive ammuntion with the .45, my favorite being the 185+p and then the regular 230's. I am wanting a new .45 with possible carry option, so that leaves out some of the double stacks like the big H&K .45. Is it time for a 1911 to be added? Or is the SA XD a reasonable hi-cap .45 with the possibility of carry in cooler weather or full dress occasion? Let me know what seasoned collectors think, I am in my early 20's.

January 13, 2007, 04:30 AM	#2
mjrodney Senior Member Join Date: March 5, 2006 Location: SW Florida Posts: 435	There are any number of smaller size 1911 platforms to choose from, if a SA only is in the cards for you. If you intend to carry this type of pistol, first decide on how; cocked and locked or on an Israeli draw. If you prefer DA, fondle a Ruger P345 for a while. It's light as .45's go, thin as in single stack, great ergonomics in the hand and it is totally reliable as a self-defense pistol. Both of these sell well, so you shouldn't have much trouble finding them. __________________ Proud supporter of the NRA

January 13, 2007, 10:50 AM	#4
kgpcr Senior Member Join Date: May 23, 2005 Posts: 955	M&p45 The new M&P45 will be out very soon. I would take a look at them. I own XD's and glocks and i love my M&P40 and am going to buy an M&P45 as soon as they hit the street. They point like a dream and are utterly reliable. __________________ Colt King Cobra .357 Colt Anaconda .44mag Springfield Armory .45 Double stack Loaded XD40 service XD45 Taurus 617 .357mag Smith M&P 40

January 13, 2007, 01:39 PM	#8
elwaine Senior Member Join Date: December 3, 2006 Posts: 235	The XD .45 compact would carry well. I have the XD .45 service model and that, too, can carry concealed without much difficulty, depending on your build. It is one sweet gun - large capacity, not as fat as most double stack guns, very accurate and reliable. IMO, there is nothing comparable to the 1911. Just a personal preference about 1911's: get a custom gun (Baer, Brown, Wilson, STI, etc.) or get a non-custom, relatively inexpensive gun such as the SA MilSpec and send it away to a good smith for customizing. If you haven't critically compared the difference between a non-custom 1911 and a stock 1911, there is nothing I can say that will matter one way or another. If you have compared the two types, there is nothing I need to say. __________________ I'd rather be judged by 12 than carried by six.

January 13, 2007, 02:04 PM	#10
BUCKMARK Senior Member Join Date: July 19, 2004 Location: south central Pa. Posts: 299	Don't forget about the Kahr P45. Very slim and easy to carry. __________________ NRA-GOA Let's Roll!

January 13, 2007, 04:47 AM	#3
givo08 Senior Member Join Date: January 29, 2006 Posts: 234	The new HK45 has a compact version. Also, the G30 is a small but relatively pleasant .45 as far as recoil. Commander sized 1911's are nice too but a commander 1911 is actually a little bigger than your sig 220 (longer overall length, same height, same width).

January 13, 2007, 11:12 AM	#5
Shane Tuttle Staff Join Date: November 28, 2005 Location: Montana Posts: 9,443	I own the XD .45ACP among your choices. Couldn't say enough good stuff without giving you a thesis. However, if I was in your situation, I'd look into a quality, reasonably priced 1911. The main reason: Everybody's gotta have a 1911 in their inventory. Springer's Mil Spec, Kimber Pro or Ultra Carry comes to mind. I don't know what your price range is and there are several other variables to consider in your purchase. Those are just a couple that I'd consider first.

January 13, 2007, 11:23 AM	#6
HorseSoldier Senior Member Join Date: February 27, 2006 Location: OCONUS 61°13′06″N 149°53′57″W Posts: 2,282	+1 on the 1911. The other .45 cal options that have been mentioned are certainly good as well, but like tuttle8 said, everyone should have a 1911 in their collection.

January 13, 2007, 01:24 PM	#7
Jason_G Senior Member Join Date: December 18, 2006 Location: Louisiana Posts: 1,902	H&K USP compact .45. I have a fullsize USP .45, and I love it, but it's a bit big for carry (it could be done, albeit uncomfortably with baggy clothes), but the compact is quite concealable. Good capacity, the design is excellent, and from what I hear they are dead-on accurate. Definitely consider this pistol. Jason

January 13, 2007, 02:01 PM	#9
Trapper L Senior Member Join Date: November 20, 2006 Location: South Texas Posts: 804	You might want to give the Smith/ Wesson 4516 a look for a carry gun. These things are built like a tank and will last you forever. They are a compact but not necessarily light in weight as compared to a compact alloy frame. Most of the law enforcement guys around here swear by them and malfunctions don't seem to be an issue. It's among the very few Smiths I think are worth having. I'm looking for one myself. http://www.kitsune.addr.com/Firearms...ls/SW_4516.htm This should give you an idea about one.

January 13, 2007, 04:10 PM	#11
Love&Hate12 Senior Member Join Date: October 13, 2005 Posts: 452	Some good insight here, I should look into all of them. In terms of the 1911, which brand is known for out of the box reliability more so than others? Obviously it won't be any of the match guns due to the tighter tolerances.

January 13, 2007, 04:43 PM	#12
Ant1 Member Join Date: January 3, 2007 Location: IL Posts: 15	You could get yourself a Wilson, Very accurate, reliable, great warrenty. But expensive. __________________ Keep Working Millions On Welfare Depend On You!!

January 13, 2007, 04:49 PM	#13
tony pasley Senior Member Join Date: April 13, 2006 Location: western north carolina Posts: 1,641	If you can find one a Colt Double Eagle 45 acp Commander, or full size, they did make a Defender size also. They are a great choice for carry weapon.

January 13, 2007, 04:54 PM	#14
BigMak Junior Member Join Date: March 8, 2006 Posts: 10	Maybe I'm being assumptive here, but if you're in your early 20's money could possibly be tighter than for some of us older folks. If that's the case, there's 2 .45's I would highly recommend: 1911: The new Taurus PT1911 CCW: Taurus's PT145 MilPro I'm not necessarily a big Taurus fan (I only have 3 Tauri out of my 17 handguns) but these both have over 2500 rounds through them without any hiccups. Just my .02. BigMak

January 13, 2007, 06:17 PM	#15
Kermit Senior Member Join Date: February 6, 2001 Location: California Posts: 3,020	I shoot fullsize guns better than my compact guns but I do have a few compacts. That said, I really like fullsize USPs and Colt Gov't models for ALL THINGS 45 acp

January 13, 2007, 07:03 PM	#16
Love&Hate12 Senior Member Join Date: October 13, 2005 Posts: 452	Yes BigMak, funds are always a little tight, but I am the type of owner that goes through guns, so I normally have some free cash for getting something different. I keep things that I really shoot well and like, such as the G21 and P220, then I own two 9mm's and just sold a .38 special revolver as I am able to comfortably carry the G19, which is better firepower than a snub .38. So I am not stretched at the moment and don't really own a whole lot of firearms compared to most guys who are really into shooting and guns. The Colt line looks to be really attractive, the Springfield's are as well but most are overdone in my opinion, such as the Operator and what not, I think solid simplicity does well for 1911, just my opinion. Some of the Kimbers look nice.

January 13, 2007, 08:16 PM	#17
02PSD4ME Junior Member Join Date: June 6, 2004 Posts: 10	I would also suggest you take a look at the Taurus's PT145 MilPro. It is a fine pistol __________________ 02PSD4ME

January 14, 2007, 08:17 AM	#18
hofstet Junior Member Join Date: January 14, 2007 Posts: 5	check out the Sig P220 Equinox in .45

January 14, 2007, 08:59 AM	#19
JDG Senior Member Join Date: November 28, 2005 Location: West Michigan Posts: 673	You have a Glock, and probably are used to it, why not get a G36? I carry a P345, and love it!

January 14, 2007, 12:05 PM	#20
Shane Tuttle Staff Join Date: November 28, 2005 Location: Montana Posts: 9,443	From your choices between the Springer, Colt, and Kimber: I'd go with Colt 1st. Hands down. Especially if you're not afraid of the price. Just NOTHING bad to say about one of the original 1911 maker. Springfield a close 2nd. Third is Kimber. Great gun, but I can only give you heresay that customer service is not top notch right now and they tend to load up on features that may turn you off if you want simplicity. I would still research those guns more. I simply cannot endorse any Taurus product due to shaky quality across the board and resale value hasn't held a candle to the others mentioned. The PT1911 may end up being a good gun, but hasn't proven itself compared to a Colt, etc. IMO. Buying a Colt is almost an investment these days.

January 14, 2007, 01:13 PM	#21
hdawson228 Senior Member Join Date: July 31, 2006 Posts: 1,301	Plus one for the 1911, .45. SA if possible.

January 14, 2007, 09:55 PM	#22
Ivory Grips Senior Member Join Date: December 25, 2006 Posts: 239	My choice would be Ruger's model P345. This weapon has a lot going for it. Fits the hand well. (at least mine) Slim, very good sights, light. accurate and reliable. And being a Ruger, its indestructible. There's a lot of quality in this gun, and that's not surpising because after all, it's a Ruger.

January 14, 2007, 11:02 PM	#23
4719 Member Join Date: August 9, 2006 Posts: 84	How about the Sig P220 "Carry"?

January 14, 2007, 11:42 PM	#24
gac009 Senior Member Join Date: January 19, 2006 Posts: 430	G36 P220 P345

January 14, 2007, 11:49 PM	#25
DataMax Member Join Date: March 22, 2005 Location: Topeka, KS Posts: 36	Let's really make it difficult on this kid ... If you think you will carry it I would look for a used SW1911SC or a new SW1911PD. They are basically the same gun rebadged. The SC stood for Scandium frame, PD stands for Personal Defense but also has a Scandium frame. Now ... here is the kick ... Scandium is as light as other alloys and damn near as strong as carbon steel ... and with a 4.25" barrel weighs in at 28 oz. Try and find another near full size 1911 that weighs that much or less ... I couldn't find any. I own two Smith 1911s and realy like them ... a 1911PD and a 1911DK. I also have Para P13 Ltd and on my night stand you'll find an SA TRP. But for concealed carry in 1911 ... nothing beats the Smith PD. IMHO (of course) __________________ NRA Patron Member

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