M&P45, 4" vs. 4.5" versions

[Paper Maker]

Hi! I am brand new to the forum and have a question about which M&P45 to purchase. I currently own both a M&P9L and a M&P Shield 9mm. I really like how they both shoot, especially the 9L. So, I am looking for another full size M&P, this time in 45acp.

This forum group has loads of experience, as I have been lurking and reading for a while, so I was hoping to get some helpful advice. I would like to get the full size Flat Dark Earth version, because I like the color and it will differentiate it from the 9mm.

My first question concerns which is better for me, the 4" barrel or the 4.5" barrel, hoping some of you either own both or have shot both. What differences should I expect? What are the advantages of either?

Second, I understand that the FDE frame comes with thumb safety only option, correct?

Thirdly, have there been any improvements made to the M&P45 since early 2012 that would make me want to purchase a newer model, such as 2015? I have an opportunity to purchase a used early 2012 FDE 4" version.

Probably will have other questions later. Really looking forward to some helpful comments. Thanks in advance.

 

[walkin' trails]

I have the 4.5. I bought it new in March 2009. It has been a good pistol. I had read an article early on where an author thought the 4 recoiled softer than the 4.5, but I have nothing to substantiate that and mine shoots fine. The only advantage to the 4 is pissicly a shorter package for concealed carry, especially in an IWB.

 

[dullh]

I have both. The slightly smaller dimensions of the 45c make it more ideal for concealed carry. I carry mine in a Desantis Intruder IWB holster and it's very comfortable.

Both feel good in the hand and shoot well - if concealability is your thing go for the 45c. If you want the 2 extra rounds get the FS.

 

[MyDads38]

I have the 4.5" version as well. Mine is dated 2007 and looked like it had been shot very little, if at all! I have over 600 rounds so far in about 4 months. I like the FDE color, but would not want the safety feature. This can be removed, from what I understand.

I also have a Ruger SR1911 45 auto-5" FS. The M&P is a "softer" shooter than the 1911; the recoil comes more straight back. I've always loved shooting the 45 auto. Can't comment on the mid-size model, but you're only looking at 1/2" difference between the two.

Mine is accurate out to 15 yards and has fired/functioned with no issues, whether factory or reloads. I don't think you'll be sorry if you go with the M&P 45.

 

[swar45]

I have both. The slightly smaller dimensions of the 45c make it more ideal for concealed carry. I carry mine in a Desantis Intruder IWB holster and it's very comfortable.

Both feel good in the hand and shoot well - if concealability is your thing go for the 45c. If you want the 2 extra rounds get the FS.

I think that he's talking about, there is a 4" and a 4.5" barrel length full size model. Not the difference between full size and compact.

 

[Paper Maker]

I think that he's talking about, there is a 4" and a 4.5" barrel length full size model. Not the difference between full size and compact.

That is correct. I am talking about both barrel lengths (4" and 4.5") in the full size frame. I am not considering the M&P45c. Thanks for the comments so far.

 

[dullh]

Well, since that's the question...

1/2" of barrel yields no "advantage"...get whichever one turns you on.

 

[B0308]

PM,

I got the mid-size (FS frame and 4" barrel, TS), best out of the box semi I've ever shot/owned (well maybe excluding a SIG P210-6, but that's another class of semi).

Shoot very well, accurate through 25 yards (most distant point on the indoor range I most often use). Really don't miss the 0.5" of barrel. Like it so much, I bought another exactly the same ��.

Enjoy either one!

 

[Water-Man]

I fired both and bought the 4". IMO, there was no appreciable difference in accuracy and the 4" balanced and concealed better.

 

[Peakes]

I have the 4 inch barrel also known as the Midsized. S&W used to have it in the FDE but quit making it. Very nice ,but hard to locate. I took my Black framed 4 inch and had it Cerakoted in Magpul FDE. Very durable, and without the Safety..Which I like. Some pics of it. Great shooter and accurate. Also have two 45 Compacts in the Factory FDE..All are great Pistols. Welcome to the Forum!

 

[BigCityChief]

^Very nice work, Peakes.^


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[BigCityChief]

I own both versions - love both, but prefer the 4" for carry. Fortunately, the mags fit either pistol.


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[Sinkhole30]

I have the 4.5" version. I like a lot and am planning on buying the 45c . But the 4.5" and 4" version you ask about are identical except for barrel length. I personally would opt for a newer model as the trigger is much improved on the newer ones. but then there is nothing wrong with putting an APEX kit in one either. My 45 has it and my 9c does not. Either way you can go wrong. If you do plan on carrying this firearm I would go with the 45c over the other two.

 

[Paper Maker]

Any other comments regarding buying the used pistol (2012) versus a new 2015 version, thinking mainly of any improvements over the past three years (if any)? The 4" FDE version is no longer available, and I think I would really like that color, which means I probably must buy a used one. Does anyone know when the 4" FDE model was stopped?

 

[swar45]

I have no idea when it was stopped, but I love my 4" barrel M&P 45. I bought it late 2013. My first gun, and M&P 40 full size, I bought used from a local gun shop. No issues whatsoever with the gun. Since then though I like to buy new guns. Because well. Their new. I know the history on them. How and when they were cared for. There's nothing wrong with buying used Imo, but unless your budget doesn't allow, or you have your heart set on that color, I'd buy new for the reasons I listed that I buy new above. Just make sure to check it out first. Field strip it and make sure it's in good shape. That there is actually lube on it.

 

[Paper Maker]

Thank you all for the great responses. I believe I am going to purchase a used M&P45, midsize FDE.

 

[artie45]

4" Mid size

I also have the 4" mid size. It shoots great. I'm saving up for the compact version for my back up gun when I'm in the woods.

 

[artie45]

4" Mid size

I also have the 4" mid size. It shoots great. I'm saving up for the compact version for my back up gun when I'm in the woods.
The compact version is available with the FDE on the lower half only.

 

[Paper Maker]

Any other comments?

 

[redrock]

I'll add one more thought... If you buy both the full size and compact 45s you can swap slides and you'll have both a mid size and a unique (can't order one from the factory) long slide compact 45 that some have called the ultimate M&P CCW 45. If you decide the long slide compact is for you, it leaves the option to sell off the remaining mid size.

Not my guns, but a fun group shot with the Franken 45 snagged from the M&P Forum.

A great comparison photo of the M&P 45 family from Grant at G&R Tactical. Seeing them all side-by-side, it seems clear the mid size is the looker in the bunch (to my eyes).