.45 ACP Carry Gun

Bravo · 04-30-2007, 05:02 PM

I know there are a lot of other threads similar to this one already started, but I thought the topic would get more attention if its own thread was created.

Anyway, later this year (Fall), I will probably be looking for a handgun to purchase, and eventually carry. I am a strong believer in shot placement over high capacity, but would enjoy a higher cap mag if possible. I also would be looking for a gun that would allow me to practice often (which means shoot cheaply). Lastly, the gun would have to be able to be concealed when needed, but at the same time be used for defense...perhaps for things not human. I will be working in wooded areas where black bear roam, and moose are also a danger during rutting season (sadly, I don't think any semi-auto handgun caliber would protect me from a charging moose, but I thought I'd throw it out there).

I have a Ruger Blackhawk chambered in .45 Colt, and I have rounds that would drop almost any animal that walks the planet on the spot. But the gun is heavy and cumbersome.

So, that being said...

I'm looking for a handgun that is chambered in .45 ACP. I'd like to be able to carry as many rounds as possible in the gun. Metal or Poly...I don't care. Reliability is a huge concern.

I guess the only limitations besides caliber is the price (Under $700) and that it not be a Glock (Sorry..just a thing I have with Glocks.).

Sooo... any recommendations?

One more thing; By carry, I mean small, but not super compact. I think a 4" barrel would work great.

just_a_car · 04-30-2007, 05:25 PM

Honestly, I think you're shootin' yerself in the foot, as the Glock 21 seems to really fit the bill on that. But, since you don't want one, I'd suggest taking a look at a Sig 220. Lightly-used ("shot 50 times") models can be found on gunbroker for around $600-$700; new appear to be closer to $900.

Also, if you're worried about large game, don't discount the 10mm. And, that being said, check out the Elite Witness Compact. They have both a full-metal and poly-framed pistol and will only run about $360-$400.

Bravo · 04-30-2007, 05:46 PM

I'm not completely bias towards Glocks. I shot one a couple of years ago along side a 1911. The Glock didn't sit right in my hand, and I didn't shoot too great with it. But I hadn't shot handguns much then, and I may have changed my mind since then.

I'll have to look into the 10mm (Isn't that only .40?). I also picked up a Springfield XD at a gun show a few months back and it seemed to fit like a glove...although it was packed there and I was in a line that was moving, so I only had time to hold it for a few seconds. I don't remember what model or caliber it was.

just_a_car · 04-30-2007, 06:04 PM

Yeah, I love my Glock 27 in .40S&W. I'm able to shoot accurately at 25 yards.

And, yes, 10mm is a longer version of the .40, but has similar ballistics (sometimes more powerful) to the .45ACP; check out the Wikipedia article mentioning the muzzle energies: 10 mm Auto - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

From what I've read, though, the 10mm has a bigger kick than the .45ACP, so that's something to consider if that's an issue. Unfortunately, I haven't had the pleasure of firing a 10mm, as the local range doesn't have any for rent. The range master explained that "they wear out too quickly" because of the high-pressure cartridge and heavy recoil. Dunno if that's actually the case, as I've read many reports online of people with thousands of rounds without issue, but I tend to trust this guy. *shrug*

Also, if you look into the Witness, everything I've read says that they need a heavier recoil spring and once that's changed out, they function beautifully.

Bravo · 04-30-2007, 06:15 PM

I think I'll stay away from the 10mm (atleast for this purpose). I may own one someday, but not for this purpose. Lets stick with .45ACP that has a 4in barrel. I wouldn't worry about moose defense, as I would probably carry my .45LC if I knew I was going to be in the woods.

EDIT:

Ok, I think I've narrowed it down to these (Unless someone else has another recommendation, they are very much welcome)

Springfield Armory

Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc.

Show Product Details

Anyone can have little reasons for liking a gun, but I was wondering if anyone had heard bad things about any of these. Also, if anyone has one can they offer personal opinions?

ArkansasHunter · 04-30-2007, 08:41 PM

Get a Springfield XD it will fit like a glove and you might find one at the next Gun show at a better price. A.H

troylaplante · 04-30-2007, 10:26 PM

Looking at your selections, it is hard to find fault with them. I love the Springfield XD45. It is on my list of "to purchase". I made an offer on one a while back, but the dealer didn't go for it. I was purchasing another pistol at the time and offered to take them both for a decent price. He balked.

It is hard to go wrong with a Sig.

I have a Springfield 1911 and a S&W 4506. I used to carry that big old S&W, but I don't recommend it, only because it is so big. It goes great by the bed, though.

I have a buddy trying to sell off a Kimber 1911 that is nicely customized, but I am not willing to spend that sort of cash right now. It is sweet, but I must exercise restraint.

Uncle Red · 05-01-2007, 12:29 AM

The Springfield XD-45 is also on my list of "must buy". I just can't decide if I want the 4" or the 5".

-UR

HEMI · 05-01-2007, 02:27 AM

S&w M&p 45

samuel · 05-01-2007, 06:12 AM

Altho I use anything that goes bang for a walk around gun for varmints I go for a revolver in the field and a compact high cap.9mm for CCW.Being 9mm it allows me to practice fast handling and accuracy economically with the gun I prefer for self defence.But if I thought a moose or bear was going to be a threat I definitly think a .45lc would be the minimum,For that kind of defence anything under a .454 C.would be light.I would rather have a .460 or .500.Just my opinion. samuel.

BattleRifleG3 · 05-01-2007, 11:01 AM

Never shot an XD, but hated the slide of the XD-45 when I handled one. I think it's too light a slide for so heavy a round. Felt the same way about a Browning Hi-Power in 40 S&W.

If I were going to pick a carry gun in 45, it would be a full size 1911. Reason being that I can replace each part with standard ones, and that while tall and long, it is very slim compared to most modern semi-autos even in 9mm. Even if I HAD to get something more compact, I'd just go down to a 4" barrel and keep the standard grip and mag size.

If I were considering any other 45 autos in a less than full size, I would be looking at the Taurus PT145 of the newest generation - older gens had problems. Know a new gen one by the accessory rail. I don't need the rail on something that short except for that reason.

Also would be considering many in the families of the CZ-75 and HK USP.

Scot Van · 05-01-2007, 11:07 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ArkansasHunter

Get a Springfield XD it will fit like a glove and you might find one at the next Gun show at a better price. A.H

The XD is a beautifully made compact ACP, and holds 14 rounds! I left my Kahr behind when I bought the XD (no dispersions intended to Kahr...it was a great CCW, but I wanted a larger caliber), I never looked back. For CC, I think this a great choice. However,the slide is a bit light for this round, as BattleRifleG3 indicated. I'd also concur that you're better off selecting a full-size 1911.

If you're looking for something between 450-550, I've had my new Taurus 1911 for about three months now and LOVE it. For the money, I'd say this is the best value out there. To be fair, it isn't a Kimber, but it also didn't cost $1,200.

Oh...incidentally, my coworker carries a Daly that is a beaut.

Dave Sample · 05-01-2007, 01:55 PM

LW Colt Commander. This is what serious people carry.

ArkansasHunter · 05-01-2007, 02:02 PM

Moose I didn't bring up the Taurus's they did ! lol

Uncle Red · 05-01-2007, 11:32 PM

Nothing wrong w/ Taurus!!

-UR

Mightybigjosh · 05-02-2007, 01:55 AM

If you want a good Ruger in 45 auto, the P90 is an excellent choice. It's single stack mag makes it pretty slim but only holds 8 rnds. 4.5" barrel and accurate for around $400(used)- $600. The grips are a perfect length for a big guy like myself.

roscoe45 · 05-05-2007, 07:17 PM

I bought a Taurus pt145 a couple months ago and have fired several hundred rounds and so far I am very pleased. Gun is reasonably accurate and goes boom every time I pull the trigger

ironmike48 · 05-06-2007, 05:09 PM

I have springfield armory loaded 1911,it concealseasily,feeds anything I want to put in it. and with nine +P 45s Ifeel confident it will handle anything need it for

Bravo · 05-06-2007, 09:19 PM

Ironmike, does your 1911 have a 4" barrel or 5" barrel? I'm torn between the Springfield 1911 in 4" and the XD in 4". I really want a 5", but it doesn't seem practical to conceal. I also don't really want to get a 1911 in 4", because that wasn't how they were designed (at least to my knowledge). What I may end up doing is get an XD in 4" and a 1911 in 5" ... Why do I always end up buying 2 guns when I initially planned on buying 1?!? hehe.

troutwest66 · 05-19-2007, 09:48 AM

Concealing a 5' 1911 isn't bad with the right holster and if you're not a midget. I bought the Taurus PT1911 and love it! I'm going to find a IWB holster, probably from Ted Blocker Holsters. Right now I carry it in a belt slide with a long enough jacket or a fanny pack. 1911s are slimmer and that helps plus they shoot so darn nice! My next choice would be the S&W M&P in .45 or .40. I've shot one in the .40 and with the interchangeable back straps they are are an extremely comfortable gun to shoot. I shot the Glock and I didn't like how it fit my hand. I shot it okay, just wouldn't buy one. The XD45 would be my third choice. I haven't shot one yet but I've heard good things. Clint Smith from Thunder Ranch is a 1911 man and after he reviewed the XD45 he bought three of them. That says something to me. I have field stripped and cleaned the M&P and the slide is one beefy piece of stainless steel! Now you only have to buy three guns!

04-30-2007, 05:02 PM	#1
Bravo Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2005 Location: Maine, USA Posts: 1,880	.45 ACP Carry Gun I know there are a lot of other threads similar to this one already started, but I thought the topic would get more attention if its own thread was created. Anyway, later this year (Fall), I will probably be looking for a handgun to purchase, and eventually carry. I am a strong believer in shot placement over high capacity, but would enjoy a higher cap mag if possible. I also would be looking for a gun that would allow me to practice often (which means shoot cheaply). Lastly, the gun would have to be able to be concealed when needed, but at the same time be used for defense...perhaps for things not human. I will be working in wooded areas where black bear roam, and moose are also a danger during rutting season (sadly, I don't think any semi-auto handgun caliber would protect me from a charging moose, but I thought I'd throw it out there). I have a Ruger Blackhawk chambered in .45 Colt, and I have rounds that would drop almost any animal that walks the planet on the spot. But the gun is heavy and cumbersome. So, that being said... I'm looking for a handgun that is chambered in .45 ACP. I'd like to be able to carry as many rounds as possible in the gun. Metal or Poly...I don't care. Reliability is a huge concern. I guess the only limitations besides caliber is the price (Under $700) and that it not be a Glock (Sorry..just a thing I have with Glocks.). Sooo... any recommendations? One more thing; By carry, I mean small, but not super compact. I think a 4" barrel would work great. Last edited by Bravo; 04-30-2007 at 05:08 PM. Reason: Automerged Doublepost

04-30-2007, 05:25 PM	#2
just_a_car Senior Member Join Date: Oct 2006 Location: Edmonds, WA Posts: 3,512	Honestly, I think you're shootin' yerself in the foot, as the Glock 21 seems to really fit the bill on that. But, since you don't want one, I'd suggest taking a look at a Sig 220. Lightly-used ("shot 50 times") models can be found on gunbroker for around $600-$700; new appear to be closer to $900. Also, if you're worried about large game, don't discount the 10mm. And, that being said, check out the Elite Witness Compact. They have both a full-metal and poly-framed pistol and will only run about $360-$400. __________________

04-30-2007, 06:04 PM	#4
just_a_car Senior Member Join Date: Oct 2006 Location: Edmonds, WA Posts: 3,512	Yeah, I love my Glock 27 in .40S&W. I'm able to shoot accurately at 25 yards. And, yes, 10mm is a longer version of the .40, but has similar ballistics (sometimes more powerful) to the .45ACP; check out the Wikipedia article mentioning the muzzle energies: 10 mm Auto - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia From what I've read, though, the 10mm has a bigger kick than the .45ACP, so that's something to consider if that's an issue. Unfortunately, I haven't had the pleasure of firing a 10mm, as the local range doesn't have any for rent. The range master explained that "they wear out too quickly" because of the high-pressure cartridge and heavy recoil. Dunno if that's actually the case, as I've read many reports online of people with thousands of rounds without issue, but I tend to trust this guy. shrug Also, if you look into the Witness, everything I've read says that they need a heavier recoil spring and once that's changed out, they function beautifully. __________________

04-30-2007, 06:15 PM	#5
Bravo Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2005 Location: Maine, USA Posts: 1,880	I think I'll stay away from the 10mm (atleast for this purpose). I may own one someday, but not for this purpose. Lets stick with .45ACP that has a 4in barrel. I wouldn't worry about moose defense, as I would probably carry my .45LC if I knew I was going to be in the woods. EDIT: Ok, I think I've narrowed it down to these (Unless someone else has another recommendation, they are very much welcome) Springfield Armory Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc. Show Product Details Anyone can have little reasons for liking a gun, but I was wondering if anyone had heard bad things about any of these. Also, if anyone has one can they offer personal opinions? Last edited by Bravo; 04-30-2007 at 06:29 PM.

05-01-2007, 12:29 AM	#8
Uncle Red Senior Member Join Date: Mar 2002 Location: Indiana Posts: 547	The Springfield XD-45 is also on my list of "must buy". I just can't decide if I want the 4" or the 5". -UR __________________ "A well regulated militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear arms, shall not be infringed"--Amendment II, Bill of Rights "He that would make his own liberty secure must guard even his enemy from oppression; for if he violates this duty he establishes a precedent that will reach to himself."--Thomas Paine "He that hath no sword, let him sell his garment and buy one." - Jesus, Luke 22:36

04-30-2007, 05:46 PM	#3
Bravo Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2005 Location: Maine, USA Posts: 1,880	I'm not completely bias towards Glocks. I shot one a couple of years ago along side a 1911. The Glock didn't sit right in my hand, and I didn't shoot too great with it. But I hadn't shot handguns much then, and I may have changed my mind since then. I'll have to look into the 10mm (Isn't that only .40?). I also picked up a Springfield XD at a gun show a few months back and it seemed to fit like a glove...although it was packed there and I was in a line that was moving, so I only had time to hold it for a few seconds. I don't remember what model or caliber it was.

04-30-2007, 08:41 PM	#6
ArkansasHunter Senior Member Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: South Arkansas Posts: 10,678	Get a Springfield XD it will fit like a glove and you might find one at the next Gun show at a better price. A.H

04-30-2007, 10:26 PM	#7
troylaplante Moderator Join Date: Nov 2004 Location: Selma, NC Posts: 2,223	Looking at your selections, it is hard to find fault with them. I love the Springfield XD45. It is on my list of "to purchase". I made an offer on one a while back, but the dealer didn't go for it. I was purchasing another pistol at the time and offered to take them both for a decent price. He balked. It is hard to go wrong with a Sig. I have a Springfield 1911 and a S&W 4506. I used to carry that big old S&W, but I don't recommend it, only because it is so big. It goes great by the bed, though. I have a buddy trying to sell off a Kimber 1911 that is nicely customized, but I am not willing to spend that sort of cash right now. It is sweet, but I must exercise restraint.

05-01-2007, 02:27 AM	#9
HEMI Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: Canada Posts: 717	S&w M&p 45

05-01-2007, 06:12 AM	#10
samuel Senior Member Join Date: Dec 2006 Posts: 5,087	Altho I use anything that goes bang for a walk around gun for varmints I go for a revolver in the field and a compact high cap.9mm for CCW.Being 9mm it allows me to practice fast handling and accuracy economically with the gun I prefer for self defence.But if I thought a moose or bear was going to be a threat I definitly think a .45lc would be the minimum,For that kind of defence anything under a .454 C.would be light.I would rather have a .460 or .500.Just my opinion. samuel.

05-01-2007, 11:01 AM	#11
BattleRifleG3 Super Moderator Join Date: Mar 2002 Location: Western PA Posts: 11,401 Images: 13	Never shot an XD, but hated the slide of the XD-45 when I handled one. I think it's too light a slide for so heavy a round. Felt the same way about a Browning Hi-Power in 40 S&W. If I were going to pick a carry gun in 45, it would be a full size 1911. Reason being that I can replace each part with standard ones, and that while tall and long, it is very slim compared to most modern semi-autos even in 9mm. Even if I HAD to get something more compact, I'd just go down to a 4" barrel and keep the standard grip and mag size. If I were considering any other 45 autos in a less than full size, I would be looking at the Taurus PT145 of the newest generation - older gens had problems. Know a new gen one by the accessory rail. I don't need the rail on something that short except for that reason. Also would be considering many in the families of the CZ-75 and HK USP. __________________ Trust is earned, not... GIVEN away. - Worf

05-01-2007, 01:55 PM	#13
Dave Sample Member Join Date: Mar 2005 Posts: 99	LW Colt Commander. This is what serious people carry.

05-01-2007, 02:02 PM	#14
ArkansasHunter Senior Member Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: South Arkansas Posts: 10,678	Moose I didn't bring up the Taurus's they did ! lol

05-01-2007, 11:32 PM	#15
Uncle Red Senior Member Join Date: Mar 2002 Location: Indiana Posts: 547	Nothing wrong w/ Taurus!! -UR __________________ "A well regulated militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear arms, shall not be infringed"--Amendment II, Bill of Rights "He that would make his own liberty secure must guard even his enemy from oppression; for if he violates this duty he establishes a precedent that will reach to himself."--Thomas Paine "He that hath no sword, let him sell his garment and buy one." - Jesus, Luke 22:36

05-02-2007, 01:55 AM	#16
Mightybigjosh Member Join Date: Apr 2007 Location: OH, Washington Posts: 37	If you want a good Ruger in 45 auto, the P90 is an excellent choice. It's single stack mag makes it pretty slim but only holds 8 rnds. 4.5" barrel and accurate for around $400(used)- $600. The grips are a perfect length for a big guy like myself.

05-05-2007, 07:17 PM	#17
roscoe45 Registered User Join Date: May 2007 Posts: 2	I bought a Taurus pt145 a couple months ago and have fired several hundred rounds and so far I am very pleased. Gun is reasonably accurate and goes boom every time I pull the trigger

05-06-2007, 05:09 PM	#18
ironmike48 Registered User Join Date: May 2007 Location: seattle wa. Posts: 14	I have springfield armory loaded 1911,it concealseasily,feeds anything I want to put in it. and with nine +P 45s Ifeel confident it will handle anything need it for

05-06-2007, 09:19 PM	#19
Bravo Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2005 Location: Maine, USA Posts: 1,880	Ironmike, does your 1911 have a 4" barrel or 5" barrel? I'm torn between the Springfield 1911 in 4" and the XD in 4". I really want a 5", but it doesn't seem practical to conceal. I also don't really want to get a 1911 in 4", because that wasn't how they were designed (at least to my knowledge). What I may end up doing is get an XD in 4" and a 1911 in 5" ... Why do I always end up buying 2 guns when I initially planned on buying 1?!? hehe.

05-19-2007, 09:48 AM	#20
troutwest66 Member Join Date: May 2007 Location: Post Falls, Idaho Posts: 24	Concealing a 5' 1911 isn't bad with the right holster and if you're not a midget. I bought the Taurus PT1911 and love it! I'm going to find a IWB holster, probably from Ted Blocker Holsters. Right now I carry it in a belt slide with a long enough jacket or a fanny pack. 1911s are slimmer and that helps plus they shoot so darn nice! My next choice would be the S&W M&P in .45 or .40. I've shot one in the .40 and with the interchangeable back straps they are are an extremely comfortable gun to shoot. I shot the Glock and I didn't like how it fit my hand. I shot it okay, just wouldn't buy one. The XD45 would be my third choice. I haven't shot one yet but I've heard good things. Clint Smith from Thunder Ranch is a 1911 man and after he reviewed the XD45 he bought three of them. That says something to me. I have field stripped and cleaned the M&P and the slide is one beefy piece of stainless steel! Now you only have to buy three guns!