What's the best small conceal carry 45?

JamesArthur60 · Dec 20, 2009

Currently I carry the slim 9mm 3913. If I were to switch to the larger 45 caliber round, what would be the smallest manufactured auto available? One final thing. I do not like "cocked and locked" carry. Never have, it's a personal thing with me. Does like eliminate any ideas for 45 carry?

Kanewpadle · Dec 20, 2009

Personally I would stay away from 3 and 4 inch 1911's anyway. I've owned three and had nothing but problems. But that's me.

The best is hard to say depending on how compact you want and other features.

Glock 30 or 36
M&P 45C
XD 45C
Kahr CW45 or P45
Bersa Thunder
Sig P220 Compact
Taurus PT745 or PT145
HK USP C

RogueJSK · Dec 20, 2009

Don't forget about the S&W Chief Special 45. It's similar in size to your 3913 (a bit smaller, but a bit wider), with the same slide decocker/safety system so retraining would be minimal.

One of the big distributors is clearing out their remaining 3rd Gens, so I've heard of quite a few NIB CS45s popping up lately. There are 5 NIB on GunBroker right now.

Other than that, the DAO Kahr PM45 is just as small (actually a bit thinner), and has gotten pretty decent reviews.

hastings · Dec 20, 2009

It's not an auto, but it's a 45acp. Try the 22-4 Thunder Ranch (or non Thunder Ranch) on for size. No safety, faster reloads, and no feed issues with flat nose or hollow point rounds.

3daman! · Dec 20, 2009

Have you ever considered the Star PD.45?

hawgleg · Dec 20, 2009

Star PD parts getting hard to come by, don't need to push it.LOL Great gun to have.

Didn't want cocked & locked. Maybe Glock-36 small single stack 45.

motorpat · Dec 20, 2009

Since 2002 the Glock 36 has worked for me. It is easy to conceal and very accurate and reliable. This weapon is a fun gun to shoot.

HOUSTON RICK · Dec 20, 2009

Another vote for CS45, I have had mine for seven years and take it to the range often. Excellent firearm.

cmort666 · Dec 20, 2009

A friend has a Springfield MicroCompact. It's an excellent gun, reliable, controllable and accurate.

ispcapt · Dec 20, 2009

Since you're already familar with the operation of a 3913 then look at something along the lines of a 457 if you can't find a CS45. They operate identical to your 3913 and only slightly larger.

Captain Hornet · Dec 20, 2009

Go with the Glock 30. I carry one every day in the front pocket of my pants. I use a kidex holster with it because on a Glock it is important to have the trigger covered. The Glock fits the pocket fine and no one would ever suspect it or think of finding it there. Eleven rounds of 45 acp goodness. There is nothing better.

JamesArthur60 · Dec 21, 2009

Thanks everyone. At first glance, I like the M457 since it looks and operates like my 3913. Several other suggestions bear looking into for a small conceal carry 45.

18DAI · Dec 21, 2009

4513 IMO. Without the idiotic rail if you can find one. Or buy a 4513TSW and remove that rail.

You know what a fan of the 3913 I am. Well since I got my PC 4513, the Shorty 45 MKII my 3913 is parked.

If you can find the funds, the Shorty 45 is the ultimate 4513. Sort of a 3913 on steroids. Regards 18DAI.

BarbC · Dec 21, 2009

If you don't like that "cocked and locked" bit (neither do I), and don't want to mess with safeties (neither do I), you can't beat the M&P 45 Compact.

It's not so tiny I can't shoot it comfortably, but it's tiny enough to wear IWB and conceal well.

dano1200r · Dec 21, 2009

Out of all my guns, a few of which are .45 ACP, I own only 1 Glock, a 36. I use it with a Glock Block and a belt clip. 7 rds. of .45 in an extremely light, compact and dependable package.

growr · Dec 21, 2009

Given your requirements, I would suggest a CS45 or the 457/4513 from S&W. You are already familiar with the 3913....
Randy

Catshooter · Dec 21, 2009

While the Shorty .45 is totally wonderful, you asked for the smallest. That honor goes to the Kahr PM45.

It is a little bit smaller than a PPKs and quite a bit lighter.

Cat

hittman77 · Dec 21, 2009

Glock 30
~ or ~
AMT Backup

Captain38 · Dec 22, 2009

I'm another who thinks the Star PD is near the top of the small .45 ACP single-action category!

Dan Cash · Dec 22, 2009

A full size 1911 is easier to tote than the dinky ones. If cocled and locked is not your thing, look at Para Ordnance Light Doubble Action. The trigger is superlativie for a DA pistol and you have all the excellence of the 1911; prooven design, excellent ergonomics, and it is only about 1 1/16th inch thick.

What's the best small conceal carry 45?

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