Shorty 45 Best Compact .45?
- Thread starter Leo77
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As far as 1911-pattern pistols go, the 3.5 and 3.0-inch barreled models are probably the least reliable of the bunch. Problems include:
1. Less slide mass
2. Barrel unlocking angle
3. Feed angle
4. Less stroke for the slide fore and aft
5. Magazine spring tension
6. Recoil spring power
All of these factors must be balanced perfectly to assure reliable functioning. It's reliability that is the most important attribute in a defense pistol. Gilt-edged accuracy is not necessary, and often detrimental to functioning.
If you must have a shorty (under 4-inch barrel) 1911, get one that has a ramped barrel, particularly on one that has an aluminum frame. This helps with the acute feed angle and helps to prevent the battering that would otherwise occur on an aluminum frame feed ramp.
Personally, I think a Commander-length barrel, not less than 4 inches, would be as short as I would trust completely. And it's the length of the grip frame, not the barrel, that aids in concealability. Here's my personal choice; it has the shorty frame and a 4-inch barrel. Completely reliable, and oh yes - plenty accurate.
John
1. Less slide mass
2. Barrel unlocking angle
3. Feed angle
4. Less stroke for the slide fore and aft
5. Magazine spring tension
6. Recoil spring power
All of these factors must be balanced perfectly to assure reliable functioning. It's reliability that is the most important attribute in a defense pistol. Gilt-edged accuracy is not necessary, and often detrimental to functioning.
If you must have a shorty (under 4-inch barrel) 1911, get one that has a ramped barrel, particularly on one that has an aluminum frame. This helps with the acute feed angle and helps to prevent the battering that would otherwise occur on an aluminum frame feed ramp.
Personally, I think a Commander-length barrel, not less than 4 inches, would be as short as I would trust completely. And it's the length of the grip frame, not the barrel, that aids in concealability. Here's my personal choice; it has the shorty frame and a 4-inch barrel. Completely reliable, and oh yes - plenty accurate.
John
Agree with Simmy 942, I just bought a sig 1911 - a C3 with a commander slide (4,2" barrel)
and officer frame. It is lightweight and crazy accurate. I use a Galco sof-tuk for carry and it is good for appendix or small of the back carry.
and officer frame. It is lightweight and crazy accurate. I use a Galco sof-tuk for carry and it is good for appendix or small of the back carry.
I have a Para Carry 45 LDA. I came by it in a trade from a friend who was looking for a Glock 27. I must say that I am very pleased with this 3" barreled 6+1 .45. There were some growing pains with the power extractor that broke after the first 100 rounds. Para sent out 2 new extractor claws as replacements. No problems since then in the last 500 rounds. Something to consider is that they(Para-Ordnance)recommend replacement of the recoil spring after 500-800 rounds on the shorter 3" barrel models. I also carry a Para LTC (4 1/4") that has been flawless and I'm waiting for delivery of an E series S&W 1911 bobtail 4 1/4". Too many choices...
Good luck
Good luck
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