45 vs 40 for Limited

[yahkohb]

So I've decided to start getting into competition shooting, in particular USPSA, hopefully 3-gun, and possibly IDPA.

I intend to start with my Kimber TLE 1911 using 10-rd magazines, in Limited-10 and maybe IDPA CDP depending on which club I go to. I've run the gun through multiple handgun classes so I'm confident with it (and it's my CCW; actually it's my only handgun).

For 3-gun, how much of a disadvantage would I be at using this rig vs a hi-cap pistol in 40S&W, e.g. an STI or a Glock 22? Would a hi-cap 45 ACP like a Glock 21 (using 13 rounders with +2 extensions) be at a significant disadvantage to the 40S&W? I already reload 45ACP so that would keep caliber management simpler.

 

[Chris Rhines]

For 3-gun, how much of a disadvantage would I be at using this rig vs a hi-cap pistol in 40S&W, e.g. an STI or a Glock 22?

The disadvantage would be significant, but not nearly as bad as in a pistol-only match. If you're just starting out, I wouldn't worry about it too much - shoot the .45, start putting some cash aside for a new pistol, then decide what you want to do after you have a few matches under your belt.

Would a hi-cap 45 ACP like a Glock 21 (using 13 rounders with +2 extensions) be at a significant disadvantage to the 40S&W?

Yes, you'd be dropping 3-5 rounds of capacity per magazine, depending on the extensions. Over a long stage, that will add up. Again, if it's all you have, it's no problem to shoot in for a while, but I wouldn't go out and buy one in favor of your 1911.

- Chris

 

[lmccrock]

For 3-gun, not much disadvantage, depends on the match. For USPSA Limited, if you are going to buy a new gun, get a .40S&W. A wide-body .40 will get you 20 in the mag. Buy the extra reloading stuff, and compete with no capacity disadvantage.

I have a Para P14-45 (14 rounds of 45) and (after many years) I added a couple Dawson mag extensions and get 16-17 rounds. So I play a little in Ltd, 33 rounds with 1 reload. But if I were getting a new gun, it would be 40. However, I am NOT getting a new gun....well, maybe something in Open one day 'cause my eyeballs do not focus on the front sight so good.

Lee