645 vd 4506

[nipster]

What is the consensus of which is a better all around weapon. Specifically shootability and reliability / longevity.

I dont own too many autos, and no S&W autos. Just a couple glocks, a SIG P220 and a couple 1911's.

 

[CCWKY]

Both are very well built and reliable handguns. The 4506-1 is built on a stronger frame and platform and this was due to the Introduction of the 1006. The 10mm required a stronger frame and to streamline production Smith started building both handguns from the same platform and this is how the 4506-1 was born. There is nothing at all wrong with the 645 and 4506 no dash models, they hold up perfectly fine to 45 ACP.

 

[Fastbolt]

The 645 was more or less a 2nd gen "transitional" model.

I know some guys that still own and shoot 645's, and they have no complaints with them.

If I had to choose between a 645 and a 4506, though, I'd go with the 4506 for the improvements incorporated within the 3rd gen guns.

The 645's are interesting examples from an earlier time when S&W engineers were looking toward the future.

Having examples of both would make many S&W enthusiasts very happy.

 

[cmr314]

I'll vote for the 645, simply because I own one, and don't own a 4506 (yet). That said, I also love shooting my 4566 as well.

 

[kennyb]

hang on...i'll look what's in the safe...

 

[sniper47]

I prefer my 645 over all of the 4506's that have passed through my hand, although the last two were excellent shooters. One is for sale right now.

 

[PattonTime]

645 vrs 4506

I vote 645 for two reasons, one grips choices are better.
Another thing I like is that I have had several with a red ramp sights and I do not remember any third gen guns that came with them.

 

[18DAI]

Tough choice.........I own and like examples of both. They are similar, but have some distinct differences.

The 645 is slightly lighter than my 4506-1's. Perhaps slightly thinner as well.......I haven't put calipers on them.

The 645 had a very nice grip frame with the capability to use different grip panels. I like the Pachmayrs on it. I do wish the 645 had the undercut trigger guard like the 4506 as it lets the pistol sit a little lower in the hand.

The 4506-1 has a better trigger than the 645. Although I'm told that Novak's will put a very nice trigger on the 645 and undercut the trigger guard as well.

Reliability and accuracy are a wash. Both are bet your life reliable and tack driving accurate.

I like the look of the adjustable sight 4506-1 and I like the 645 with Novak sights just as much. So........I guess I'm no help to you at all.

The 645 was made for a shorter period of time and in fewer numbers than the 4506. So if there is a 645 in front of you, I would advise you buy it..........first. Regards 18DAI

 

[lawman90]

Even though they both have the same grip, the 4506-1 still feels a bit fatter to me. The 4506 no dash is probably the slimmest gun I own, feels much thinner than my stock G.I. style 1911. I would love a 645 to add to the collection, but they are a bit wider than the 4506's, as they have grip panels vs. a wrap-around plastic grip.

I will agree with 18DAI on the trigger though, my 4506-1 has a much better trigger than both my 1006 and 4506 no dash, maybe it has to do with the non-chrome finished trigger and hammer? It's not MIM like the later models, but simply a black version of the old style trigger and hammer.