Looking for 45 ACP suggestions

RickCoop · March 28, 2018, 05:03 PM

Hi, Looking for a good semi-auto 45. Use is strickly for the range. I live in a state where defending yourself is out of the question so size and weight are not important. Accuracy would be my prime interest. I was looking into the used gun market at some Sig P220`s but I'm open to suggestions. I`m not sure I`d want a 1911 as they just aren`t my cup of tea. Any suggestions would be appreaciated.
Thanks
Rick

rickmelear · March 28, 2018, 06:43 PM

Hard to go wrong with a Sig 220. However, if you've never fired a good 1911 don't count one out.

FITASC · March 28, 2018, 07:14 PM

1911, due to the trigger, tends to give the best accuracy

chris in va · March 28, 2018, 07:32 PM

I had a 220, couldn't warm up to it. Hard DA first pull, high bore axis, single stack mag. I currently have a CZ 97b, but frankly the S&W M&P really interests me.

sigarms228 · March 28, 2018, 07:38 PM

IMO SIG P220 is a terrific .45 pistol. The HK45 (which can be bought new for under $700 these days) and Walther PPQ would also be excellent possibilities IMO. If in the budget an HK 45 USP Expert would be mechanically extremely accurate and usually can be found for around $1000 new.

As always your best bet would be to try out whatever you are considering by shooting them to see what works best for you. If that is impossible at least handling and dry fire is better than nothing. For me how a pistol interfaces with my hand/fingers including reach to trigger can make a significant difference in how well I can shoot it.

Rangerrich99 · March 28, 2018, 08:34 PM

The SIG P220 in .45 is a very nice and accurate gun; you can't go wrong with that one. Per your stated parameters, I don't see why you wouldn't consider a 1911, such as a Magnum Research bull barrel bushing-less (under 900, I believe), which probably would be a little more accurate, and certainly has a better trigger. But to each his own. Hope you find a good piece whatever you choose.

Hammerhead · March 28, 2018, 09:15 PM

1911s are good, P220 also. I just bought a used USP 45 for $550, great range gun, accurate and soft shooting.

kmw1954 · March 28, 2018, 11:03 PM

I just purchased a used EAA Witness large frame 45 and jus put 100 rounds thru it today. Love it because of the heavier metal frame and the longer barrel. My wife has a Springfield XD Mod 3 45acp service model with 4" barrel and I shoot tat one pretty well also. Lastly a friend has an EAA Witness Compact metal frame which is what got me interested. I have fired a couple 1911 45's and they just are not that comfortable for me.

BigJimP · March 28, 2018, 11:05 PM

At least look at a decent quality 1911 ...like the Springfield TRP...

But if you don't like it, then look at the Sig 220's ...the Elite Stainless is a nice gun with the DA/SA trigger....but they have made models in the past with Single Action Only triggers in them as well....

Mosin44az · March 29, 2018, 01:13 AM

Glock 21 hasn’t been mentioned. It’s good. I would buy a SIG P220 SAO if I saw one at a good price. Liked the PPQ M2 I rented, have a subcompact XD I like so am sure the larger XD and XDm would shoot well.

DFM914 · March 29, 2018, 04:57 AM

H&K45c

Johnny B · March 29, 2018, 08:11 AM

I'm guessing that you are restricted by mag capacity limits, otherwise my vote would be for an FNP or FNX-45. Also, Sig P227 over the 220, but only if my assumption about mag limits is incorrect.

Otherwise, the 220 is a great choice. I also have difficultly warming up to the 1911 platform, but I'm sure if I practice with one I'd become proficient. If accuracy is paramount and .45acp is your chosen caliber, you might be doing yourself a disservice by ruling it out.

Charlie98 · March 29, 2018, 09:05 AM

Quote:

I`m not sure I`d want a 1911 as they just aren`t my cup of tea.

I just think we don't need that kind of negativity on this site...

Just kidding. Sort of.

I suggest finding a gun range that has rental guns... go test drive a few that strike your fancy. I did that when I was looking for a new .45... I was very excited to try the HK USP, for example... what I found was it didn't fit my hand well, and I kept hitting the decocker (I shoot 1911's thumb over safety.) In the end, I didn't necessarily find what I liked, but I did find what I didn't like... which can be more important, sometimes.

weblance · March 29, 2018, 09:38 AM

Rick... based on your comments, I assume magazine capacity restrictions are a requirement for you...? I really like my FNX-45. It can be ordered with 10 round magazines if need be. I also have a Glock 30s. It comes with 10 round magazines. If you can find a Ruger P90, or P97, these are great 45 pistols that have 8 round magazines. They can be found used for $300-$400.

I would also suggest you look at the Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 45. Make sure it says 2.0 on the slide. They come with a stronger frame, and an improved trigger, compared to the original M&P version.

**44 AMP** · March 29, 2018, 10:42 AM

Just out of curiosity, if self defense isn't a consideration (not an option?), then why are you looking at service class semi autos, at all???

None of the tilt barrel, sights on the slide guns were designed to be the most accurate guns possible. They were designed to be accurate enough for defensive use. Anything beyond that is serendipity.

I've been shooting 1911A1 type guns since the early 70s, I've owned a Sig P220 since 1980. My Dad's Government Model will put 5 shots in one ragged hole at 25 yards, if the shooter does his part right, but it was tuned to do that. My BDA (Sig P220) will do nearly as well, box stock.

If the reason you are looking at semi auto .45s is just that you want one, that's reason enough. But, if there little or zero possibility of using it off the range, I don't see any point to getting a "combat" type pistol, other than just wanting one to have. Nothing wrong with that, either.

vba · March 29, 2018, 11:11 AM

You should get the gun I use.

tallball · March 29, 2018, 02:11 PM

The CZ's and Tanfoglio/EAA clones are my favorite in every service caliber. Mine are all very good shooters.

If a 1911 has decent sights it's as accurate as any service pistol.

I have various 45acp pistols. Those are my favorites.

disseminator · March 29, 2018, 10:15 PM

IF accurate shooting at the range is your top priority, then the 1911 with a good set of target sights is the top choice. I also love my 45 Auto Revolver (S&W 625) and it has proven very accurate and a smith single action trigger will give the 1911 a run for the money all day long.

Cheapshooter · March 29, 2018, 10:39 PM

Quote:

Hi, Looking for a good semi-auto 45. Use is strickly for the range. I live in a state where defending yourself is out of the question so size and weight are not important. Accuracy would be my prime interest. I`m not sure I`d want a 1911 as they just aren`t my cup of tea.

Probably the two most opposite statements that could be in one paragraph!
So what is your complaint about he 1911?

JDBerg · March 30, 2018, 06:52 AM

If a 1911 doesn’t suit ‘ya then I’d look at an HK45 then a Gen4 Glock 21.

A CZ 97B also fits the definition of an accurate .45ACP range gun.

I prefer the Sig P227 over the P220 myself but you can look at those 2.

BBarn · March 30, 2018, 07:53 AM

Over the years I've owned 1911s, a Ruger P90 a Ruger P97, and Glock 21s. I prefer the 1911, but had no major complaints with any of them. I liked the P90 the least. Several good choices out there, and none that I would avoid based on my personal experience.

SDH56 · March 31, 2018, 06:43 PM

I picked up a Springfield Armory 1911 Range Officer Elite Target about a month ago for range use. I also wanted it to be as close as possible to John Browning's original design, but with good sights and trigger. I've been very happy with this 1911, so far.

pete2 · March 31, 2018, 07:14 PM

Go ahead and get a SIG or HK, you can always get the 1911 later when you find out how much better the 1911 is for shooting.

mr bolo · March 31, 2018, 07:44 PM

I would recommend the HK USP 45 EXPERT

they retail for around $989 about the same price as a SIG 220

kenny53 · March 31, 2018, 07:54 PM

I have the M&P 45 with an Apex trigger. Very good weapon. I hear the M&P 2.0 is better but I like the original. I am also very fond of my 1911. My only complaint is I am down to 1. My next 1911 will be a RIA plain Jane GI clone. They can be had for under $500.

March 28, 2018, 05:03 PM	#1
RickCoop Member Join Date: August 17, 2013 Posts: 45	Looking for 45 ACP suggestions Hi, Looking for a good semi-auto 45. Use is strickly for the range. I live in a state where defending yourself is out of the question so size and weight are not important. Accuracy would be my prime interest. I was looking into the used gun market at some Sig P220`s but I'm open to suggestions. I`m not sure I`d want a 1911 as they just aren`t my cup of tea. Any suggestions would be appreaciated. Thanks Rick

March 28, 2018, 07:14 PM	#3
FITASC Senior Member Join Date: December 6, 2014 Posts: 6,446	1911, due to the trigger, tends to give the best accuracy __________________ "I believe that people have a right to decide their own destinies; people own themselves. I also believe that, in a democracy, government exists because (and only so long as) individual citizens give it a 'temporary license to exist'—in exchange for a promise that it will behave itself. In a democracy, you own the government—it doesn't own you."- Frank Zappa

March 28, 2018, 07:38 PM	#5
sigarms228 Senior Member Join Date: October 29, 2011 Posts: 1,768	IMO SIG P220 is a terrific .45 pistol. The HK45 (which can be bought new for under $700 these days) and Walther PPQ would also be excellent possibilities IMO. If in the budget an HK 45 USP Expert would be mechanically extremely accurate and usually can be found for around $1000 new. As always your best bet would be to try out whatever you are considering by shooting them to see what works best for you. If that is impossible at least handling and dry fire is better than nothing. For me how a pistol interfaces with my hand/fingers including reach to trigger can make a significant difference in how well I can shoot it. __________________ “When the people find that they can vote themselves money that will herald the end of the republic.” ― Benjamin Franklin Last edited by sigarms228; March 28, 2018 at 07:45 PM.

March 29, 2018, 10:42 AM	#15
44 AMP Staff Join Date: March 11, 2006 Location: Upper US Posts: 28,846	Just out of curiosity, if self defense isn't a consideration (not an option?), then why are you looking at service class semi autos, at all??? None of the tilt barrel, sights on the slide guns were designed to be the most accurate guns possible. They were designed to be accurate enough for defensive use. Anything beyond that is serendipity. I've been shooting 1911A1 type guns since the early 70s, I've owned a Sig P220 since 1980. My Dad's Government Model will put 5 shots in one ragged hole at 25 yards, if the shooter does his part right, but it was tuned to do that. My BDA (Sig P220) will do nearly as well, box stock. If the reason you are looking at semi auto .45s is just that you want one, that's reason enough. But, if there little or zero possibility of using it off the range, I don't see any point to getting a "combat" type pistol, other than just wanting one to have. Nothing wrong with that, either. __________________ All else being equal (and it almost never is) bigger bullets tend to work better.

March 30, 2018, 06:52 AM	#20
JDBerg Senior Member Join Date: May 18, 2015 Location: PA Posts: 1,835	If a 1911 doesn’t suit ‘ya then I’d look at an HK45 then a Gen4 Glock 21. A CZ 97B also fits the definition of an accurate .45ACP range gun. I prefer the Sig P227 over the P220 myself but you can look at those 2. __________________ Words to Live By: Before You Pray - Believe; Before You Speak - Listen; Before You Spend - Earn; Before You Write - Think; Before You Quit - Try; Before You Die - Live

March 28, 2018, 06:43 PM	#2
rickmelear Senior Member Join Date: October 8, 2005 Location: palm beach county, fl Posts: 257	Hard to go wrong with a Sig 220. However, if you've never fired a good 1911 don't count one out.

March 28, 2018, 07:32 PM	#4
chris in va Senior Member Join Date: December 26, 2004 Location: Louisville KY Posts: 13,806	I had a 220, couldn't warm up to it. Hard DA first pull, high bore axis, single stack mag. I currently have a CZ 97b, but frankly the S&W M&P really interests me.

March 28, 2018, 08:34 PM	#6
Rangerrich99 Senior Member Join Date: March 20, 2014 Location: Kinda near Phoenix, AZ Posts: 1,254	The SIG P220 in .45 is a very nice and accurate gun; you can't go wrong with that one. Per your stated parameters, I don't see why you wouldn't consider a 1911, such as a Magnum Research bull barrel bushing-less (under 900, I believe), which probably would be a little more accurate, and certainly has a better trigger. But to each his own. Hope you find a good piece whatever you choose.

March 28, 2018, 09:15 PM	#7
Hammerhead Senior Member Join Date: May 31, 2004 Location: Minnesota Posts: 2,432	1911s are good, P220 also. I just bought a used USP 45 for $550, great range gun, accurate and soft shooting.

March 28, 2018, 11:03 PM	#8
kmw1954 Senior Member Join Date: June 11, 2016 Location: SE Wisconsin Posts: 1,524	I just purchased a used EAA Witness large frame 45 and jus put 100 rounds thru it today. Love it because of the heavier metal frame and the longer barrel. My wife has a Springfield XD Mod 3 45acp service model with 4" barrel and I shoot tat one pretty well also. Lastly a friend has an EAA Witness Compact metal frame which is what got me interested. I have fired a couple 1911 45's and they just are not that comfortable for me.

March 28, 2018, 11:05 PM	#9
BigJimP Senior Member Join Date: February 23, 2005 Posts: 13,195	At least look at a decent quality 1911 ...like the Springfield TRP... But if you don't like it, then look at the Sig 220's ...the Elite Stainless is a nice gun with the DA/SA trigger....but they have made models in the past with Single Action Only triggers in them as well....

March 29, 2018, 01:13 AM	#10
Mosin44az Senior Member Join Date: January 15, 2006 Posts: 2,585	Glock 21 hasn’t been mentioned. It’s good. I would buy a SIG P220 SAO if I saw one at a good price. Liked the PPQ M2 I rented, have a subcompact XD I like so am sure the larger XD and XDm would shoot well.

March 29, 2018, 04:57 AM	#11
DFM914 Member Join Date: March 2, 2011 Posts: 63	H&K45c

March 29, 2018, 08:11 AM	#12
Johnny B Member Join Date: March 12, 2018 Location: Eastern Iowa Posts: 21	I'm guessing that you are restricted by mag capacity limits, otherwise my vote would be for an FNP or FNX-45. Also, Sig P227 over the 220, but only if my assumption about mag limits is incorrect. Otherwise, the 220 is a great choice. I also have difficultly warming up to the 1911 platform, but I'm sure if I practice with one I'd become proficient. If accuracy is paramount and .45acp is your chosen caliber, you might be doing yourself a disservice by ruling it out.

March 29, 2018, 09:38 AM	#14
weblance Senior Member Join Date: October 3, 2012 Posts: 1,229	Rick... based on your comments, I assume magazine capacity restrictions are a requirement for you...? I really like my FNX-45. It can be ordered with 10 round magazines if need be. I also have a Glock 30s. It comes with 10 round magazines. If you can find a Ruger P90, or P97, these are great 45 pistols that have 8 round magazines. They can be found used for $300-$400. I would also suggest you look at the Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 45. Make sure it says 2.0 on the slide. They come with a stronger frame, and an improved trigger, compared to the original M&P version.

March 29, 2018, 11:11 AM	#16
vba Senior Member Join Date: October 26, 2008 Posts: 357	You should get the gun I use.

March 29, 2018, 02:11 PM	#17
tallball Senior Member Join Date: October 17, 2014 Posts: 2,444	The CZ's and Tanfoglio/EAA clones are my favorite in every service caliber. Mine are all very good shooters. If a 1911 has decent sights it's as accurate as any service pistol. I have various 45acp pistols. Those are my favorites.

March 29, 2018, 10:15 PM	#18
disseminator Senior Member Join Date: November 26, 2016 Location: Minnesota Posts: 960	IF accurate shooting at the range is your top priority, then the 1911 with a good set of target sights is the top choice. I also love my 45 Auto Revolver (S&W 625) and it has proven very accurate and a smith single action trigger will give the 1911 a run for the money all day long.

March 30, 2018, 07:53 AM	#21
BBarn Senior Member Join Date: December 22, 2015 Posts: 887	Over the years I've owned 1911s, a Ruger P90 a Ruger P97, and Glock 21s. I prefer the 1911, but had no major complaints with any of them. I liked the P90 the least. Several good choices out there, and none that I would avoid based on my personal experience.

March 31, 2018, 06:43 PM	#22
SDH56 Junior Member Join Date: December 17, 2011 Posts: 2	I picked up a Springfield Armory 1911 Range Officer Elite Target about a month ago for range use. I also wanted it to be as close as possible to John Browning's original design, but with good sights and trigger. I've been very happy with this 1911, so far.

March 31, 2018, 07:14 PM	#23
pete2 Senior Member Join Date: May 15, 2012 Location: Texas Posts: 2,566	Go ahead and get a SIG or HK, you can always get the 1911 later when you find out how much better the 1911 is for shooting.

March 31, 2018, 07:44 PM	#24
mr bolo Senior Member Join Date: November 19, 2012 Posts: 432	I would recommend the HK USP 45 EXPERT they retail for around $989 about the same price as a SIG 220

March 31, 2018, 07:54 PM	#25
kenny53 Senior Member Join Date: December 30, 2015 Location: My back yard Posts: 971	I have the M&P 45 with an Apex trigger. Very good weapon. I hear the M&P 2.0 is better but I like the original. I am also very fond of my 1911. My only complaint is I am down to 1. My next 1911 will be a RIA plain Jane GI clone. They can be had for under $500.