The story of the S&W Model 645

My S&W 645-transitional...


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My introduction into the S&W metal receiver 45 ACP pistols was with one of these pilot guns. Unfortunately, the one I bought proved to be rather inaccurate. After a good cleaning, it was 100% reliable and recoil with full power ammo was distinctly softer than that of a M1911 Government Model, but it just did not tick my box for minimum acceptable accuracy. I ended up trading it plus a hundred dollars for a first generation Kimber M-1911 Stainless Gold Match.

I now own a pair of Model 645's, bought them just before the COVID-19 outbreak got into full swing. One is a police trade-in and shows the scars of a hard life.
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The other is just shy of being in un-fired, pristine condition, looks awesome in my late 1980's era Galco shoulder holster. I have added original stocks since this picture was taken, these Pachmayr's are now on the police trade-in 645.

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I really need to load up some 45 ACP and get them to the range for a good workout.
 
That was one I built
You did a great job building it. I've had zero problems with it. A joy to shoot.
I carried it when I was running 2 drug task forces. It went on a lot of operations.
One kind of funny story with it. We hit a fortified drug house where occupants were known to be armed and some had a history of using their guns. The night we hit the place everyone decided to behave themselves. I was covering 4 of the residents laying on the floor while the rest of rooms were being secured. One said to his buddy "Did you see that guy's gun? That's the biggest (effing) gun I've ever seen." And that's another reason I really love my 645. That big gun may have helped convince the residents to behave themselves.
Fortunately it was never fired in anger.
Still one of my favorites and never intend to part with it.
Thanks for your work.
 
#645 With an "O".

I can't remember the exact year, but after I moved from fitting the Mod 52's I moved to assembling the 39's 59's and 41's. I was chosen to assemble the first of the production 645's. Loved that guns size, basically like a big 39. I always wondered why they used a phillips screw for the ambi-safety, ugliest part of the gun. If you look at the bottom of the frame around the mag well, a fitters stamp would be there. If it's an "0" that's one of mine.
I HAVE ONE OF YOURS.... And well taken care of....... Thanx George K.
 
Great thread, certainly makes me want to add a 645 to my growing S&W 2nd/3rd gen collection. Absolutely beautiful design.
 
The 645 was our first semi-auto when we transitioned from revolvers in 1985. After 8 years of carrying a wheel gun, it was nice to get a .45 ACP as an issued and authorized duty gun. I later changed to the 4506 and carried a 4516 in plainclothes and off-duty. I'm currently in the hunt for another 645/4506. Those are great guns. That was also and outstanding write-up, Paladin85020.
 
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