.45 ACP - which pistol should go in safe ?

[PatriotX]

It's been an interesting year.

A shooting buddy recently offered to settle an old financial obligation with a decent pile of factory boxed .45 ACP ammo. Rather than trying to monetize this precious metal windfall, I would like to invest in some more steel.


I would appreciate suggestions for a full-sized pistol to make use of this ammunition. Nothing unobtanium or more than a grand, please.


I know a 1911 is the obvious choice...or is it?

 

[HOUSTON RICK]

The 1911 is a clear sentimental favorite. Perhaps a better practical gun at a lower price is the S&W 4506. It is a newer design and heavier gun. I and others have quipped that it is one of the few 3rd gen guns heavy enough to use as a club if you run out of ammo. Many who shoot my handguns prefer it. Buy a 1911 for the history, buy the S&W 4506 to shoot.

 

[JohnRippert]

Springfield Armory Loaded.

 

[Bro. Dave]

Somewhere on the forum today was a thread about .45acp revolvers. I only have one, but reading that thread caused this tiny little itch...

 

[Grayfox]

I'm an old 1911 guy. So there ya go.
My 2nd favorite .45acp is the Sig P-220. These can be found used at very good prices.

 

[mistersmith]

Browning BDA 45. Similar to a SIG 220 only better. Failing that a M25

 

[Abflyboy]

I love my 1911s but my Glock 41 is sure fun to shoot ...

 

[10xatten]

I have a Sig 1911, a Sig P220ST, and a Smith 4506. Do to health issues I am only keeping one. I think it will be the P220ST.

 

[walter o]

I would go with a s&w model 25-2 .That way you don't have to bend over to pick up the brass.A nice mod.1917 or a Brazilian might be nice also.

 

[GKC]

Perhaps a better practical gun at a lower price is the S&W 4506.

The thing that concerns me about these 3rd generation (and even earlier generation) metal-framed guns is how long will parts be obtainable? If I remember correctly, S&W isn't maintaining them anymore.

The thing about a 1911, especially a good one, is that they are a dream to shoot...and you can get a wide, wide variety of aftermarket parts for them. Any gunsmith should be able to work on them, if you buy one without a lifetime warranty.

SIG P220s are a great choice. H&K makes very good pistols too.

Other alternatives are the polymer frame models on the market today...like M&Ps, from full size down to the Shield. Ruger has a new polymer .45, the American. They also make another polymer pistol, the SR45.

 

[ContinentalOp]

If I were going to get a .45 as a range gun, I'd get a 1911, preferably the Colt Series 70 Govt Model re-issue.

 

[3rdRRU_PhuBai]

A Glock 41MOS will leave you with $300 to spend on optics when your eyes get old.

 

[inspcalahan]

Find yourself a 95% condition Colt Gunsite...blue or stainless...it's got just enough, that it doesn't need anymore. It's a Colt. It's a 1911. You'll be happy. Trust me.

 

[PatriotX]

As expected, there is a wide range of opinions on this subject - I appreciate every last one.


1911: Mild to wild, the choices are legion. I own but one 1911-pattern, a Colt DE. I'm not 100% sold on single-stack guns, however.


G41: After shooting a G40 MOS, this has become a contender. Long-slide goodness in a soft-shooting, double-stack configuration has its appeal, if very little soul.


I know nowt about the Sigs, but have seen great feedback from those who use them in a working capacity. Would they be suitable for someone with large mitts?

 

[Kanewpadle]

Since Dan Wesson is out of your price range I would recommend a Springfield Loaded or Range Officer. A Ruger SR1911, Remington R1 Carry, Sig Sauer 1911 XO.

Not a 1911, the EAA Witness Elite Match is an outstanding alternative.

 

[Rpg]

You should have at least one 1911.

It should be a Colt, not a knock off.

Parts are abundant and inexpensive. Little chance you'll have difficulty obtaining them in your lifetime, or your children's lifetime.

 

[chud333]

Another vote for a Sig 220


Chuck

 

[JaPes]

I can offer two suggestions based on current or previous ownership.

1. Rock Island Armory 1911. Everyone should own at least one 1911 chambered in .45 ACP. Compared to others, it's lower priced yet still good quality. Full length guide rod, good fit and finish. The newest production don't have that giant billboard on the slide. Some cons: polymer mainspring housing (easily replaced), somewhat uncomfortable ambi-safety (easily replaced), the sight dovetail aren't quite Novak.

2. Sig P220. Install a short reach and short reset trigger, and it is golden.

 

[moralem]

There is really only one 1911 and that is Colt take a look at the new Colt Competion, I know some might say the grips and fiber optic colors are ugly. But you can easily change those out and still ha a gun under or right at your budget with lots of nice features without breaking your 1000 dollar limit.

 

[Arik]

Browning BDA 45. Similar to a SIG 220 only better. Failing that a M25

Browning BDA 45 IS a Sign 220. That's how they were imported

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