choosing a full size .45acp semi-automatic

[57K]

If I were looking for a 1911, it would be a very quick search and just a matter of finding a Ruger SR 1911.

As far as polymer frame striker-fired pistols, it would be the SR45. Up until recently, I believed that the XDm was the best of the class. But I sold mine for something I think is even better, the SR45. After about 300 rounds fired for break-in you'll get a trigger that's better than any of the others, i.e. M&P, G21, XD/XDm without any customizing done on any of them. I gave up 3 rounds by going to the SR45 from the XDm, but the better accuracy I've seen makes that kinda moot considering the load I carry. The sights on the SR45 are about the best I've seen on a factory pistol and they're adjustable. The stainless steel barrel is conventionally rifled and you can shoot as many LSWCs as your heart desires. It also doesn't hurt that the SR45 is the least expensive pistol in this group. Ruger has hit a grand slam with this pistol and many aren't aware of it yet.

As far as an earlier poster stating there were bugs with earlier pistols, I just haven't heard that and if you check on one of the various Ruger forums, I think you'll find there have been minimal complaints.

[Eppie]

There are a lot of good guns out there that will work for you. If money is no object get a double stack STI 2011. However, if money is a factor then a Glock 21SF is very hard to beat.

[Kevin_d77]

My vote is for the Sig P220 but on a budget, the ruger SR45 can be had for 409 shipped right now

[verdun59]

CZ 97B and forget the others.

[Capt Rick Hiott]

Its VERY hard to beat a Glock model 21!

VERY easy to take apart and clean..............

[SpareMag]

Used Sig 220 or new Glock.

Actually, in the 45 space, it is hard to pick a bad option. 45s have enough power to cycle/feed just about anything.

[Eight_is_enough]

Its VERY hard to beat a Glock model 21!

VERY easy to take apart and clean..............

Granted getting my firing pin out is a chore but I can have my unloaded 1911 disassembled for ordinary cleaning in 45 seconds with no tool other than the round I removed from the barrel.



I don't mind dying in a hail of gunfire if they find me holding a 1911. A Glock, however, I couldn't live down in an eternity.

[Cosmodragoon]

I spent a long time researching choices in this caliber. I shot and handled several. I finally settled on the FNX. It is a great shooter, holds one more than the double-stack 1911, and can be fired in double action. That last feature should be of interest to 1911 users. The SA classics require carrying "cocked and locked" if you want one ready in the chamber. The FNX can certainly be carried cocked and locked if that's how you roll. However, it can also fire a chambered round in double action if the hammer is down. Dropping that hammer is safe and easy with the handy decocking lever. Another benefit is that the FNX can easily be taken down, cleaned, and put back together again twice in the time it takes to service a 1911.

[Water-Man]

Full size M&P or Glock.

[JHansenAK47]

Nothing wrong with Sig but I believe they have (or soon will) a newer 45 model 227 that has a higher capacity.

They are out already. I had the pleasure of checking one out at a local store. The E2 grip made that almost irresistible but fate intervened in the form of an M1A safe queen with a walnut stock they had for sale at 1000.

[915A]

As far as polymer frame striker-fired pistols, it would be the SR45.

I think Ruger nailed it with the SR line. My SR9c is amazing. I really hope they bring out a 45c. I am in the market for a .40 and the SR40c is one of my top 3.

[Pond, James Pond]

I too was going to suggest the CZ97B.

I've not shot one, but given the feedback on the 9mm CZ range, I'd be inclined to expect a nice trigger with good accuracy and comfort.

A weightier design should give good recoil dampening.

Unless you go double stack, and given capacity was one of your criteria, I'd avoid 1911s whilst the CZ carries 10 + 1.

The Glock 21 does trounce that with 13 + 1, but is perhaps more expensive in the US: it certainly is here.

Still while we are on the topic of size doesn't matter,... why not look at the HK Expert .45: quite big...

[chuckscap]

[Shad4532]

For home defense I have 2 of the EAA Witness, all black steel, 45ACP...over 500 rounds in each of them...shoots FMJ or hollow points with no problems...

[wnycollector]

I have two full sized 45's (SIG P220 and P250). I have had West German P220 for half a dozen years and the P250 for a few months. Both are superbly accurate and reliable pistols.

The P250 has really impressed me. It's the same size and weight as my P220 carries two more rounds and costs less. I also like that I can change it to three different calibers and frame sizes with an X-change kits that costs ~$250. The only potential downside is that the trigger (DAO) takes some getting used to. I love it, but I shoot all of revolver's DA so it's a natural fit.

[Rmart30]

XDM would be my choice.

[gmarr]

No one has mentioned the new Ruger SR45. I have the SR9 and and keep it in the night stand for me and primarily the wife. The SR45 is new and I've handled one only. Really like it enough that I'll be getting one. For the home get which ever you're more comfortable with. Try to shoot the one you want first so you get a real experience.

[Skarekrow88]

Carry this exact setup at work except I have the HK UTL not the surefire light. Can't think of a better home defense full-size .45 than that with the Glock 21 being a close second.

[creightonenterprises]

I have my Kimber Master Ultra in the house. It's just what I've settled with because it's easy to grab versus one of my larger pistols

[ClydeFrog]

Depending on your budget & choices, there are a few great .45acp semi auto pistols out there in 07/2013;
A few to check include; Beretta PX4 Storm C(constant), M&P full size or compact, SIG P220R DAK, HK45 or HK45 Compact LEM(law enforcement modification), Para USA(LDA/long double action), S-A XDm .45acp, Glock 30 or 21, Ruger SR45.
For defense or concealed carry, I'd buy a NIB DA Only .45acp like a HK45 Compact or the robust P220R DAK(Double Action Kellerman). The PX4 Storm C .45acp is rare but I like the rotating barrel design.
The Ruger SR45 is new but a good value. I've seen a few around $385.00 to $400.00 USD.

CF

[weblance]

+1 on the FNX-45. It is an exceptional autoloader, and comes with 3 magazines. 16 rounds of 45acp makes a very formidable defensive weapon. I think its a great choice.

[Cosmodragoon]

weblance, I forgot about the extra magazines. I was doing maintenance today and found myself reflecting on the peripheries. Most new pistols come with a storage or carrying case of some kind. The S&W Bodyguard case looks like a nylon day planner and holds an extra magazine the way one of those holds a pen. Just as there are differences in pistols by manufacturer, model, and brand; there can be huge differences in their up-front accessory support.

Some of mine came with functional but otherwise chintzy plastic cases. A few of those cases have limited internal compartments. The solid plastic FNX case is better than most. Its internal compartments are packed with goodies. You get three magazines and some number of interchangeable back-straps. It's rare for a gun to come with two magazines but three!?!

Having just laid down a fistful of bills to get second magazines for a few of my semis, I truly appreciate that level of customer care on the part of FN.

[weblance]

Another comment on the FNX-45. It is completely ambidextrous. Magazine release, slide stop, and safety are duplicated on the right side, for left handed shooters.

[BIG P]

G21,CC one all the time,Dont have the conceal problem some folks talk about just get a good holster.

[whip1]

Another vote for the FNX-45. It meets all of the OP's wants.