mavracer said:
question ... is a compact 45 an effective weapon? not trying to start a war here ... just the facts.
For me, accuracy is everything. A weapon becomes more effective if the defender is able to hit the intended target(s) fast and at point of aim repeatedly. I think the most effective weapon is a pistol that a shooter is comfortable with and able to produce consistent accuracy fast, regardless of the brand/caliber/size.
The question I would ask, are you able to effectively hit your target(s) with a compact 45? Because no matter how effective a cartridge is, if you can't hit your target(s), the bullets won't be able to do their job on the target(s).
Although I started with 9mm/45ACP, I found I was able to achieve proficiency with 40S&W using Glock 22 (which became my match pistol). When I found I could shoot the subcompact G27 as well as the G22, it became my carry weapon.
I was always fond of 45ACP and was surprised when I was able to shoot a compact Taurus PT145 (with SA trigger) well. It has natural point of aim as Sig 226/220 I had and all the controls are more ergonomic than the Glock controls which I have learned to adapt to. The PT145 sights line up to whatever I point at so all I have to do is press the trigger.
I test my natural point of aim by closing my eyes and pointing the pistol at the target and firing. If intended POA matches POI, then I have a natural pointing pistol that may come in handy when I do not have clear sight picture and have to resort to point shooting.
40S&W 165 gr JHP has higher rated muzzle energy than 45ACP 185 gr JHP and both G27 and PT145 hold 10 rounds in the magazine (G27 has +1 mag base). Although I lean towards G27 for being a more effective weapon because I can use 40-9 conversion barrel to shoot 9mm and get more trigger time, I feel comfortable carrying the PT145.
Of course, this is for me. You may be comfortable with different pistols and able to shoot effectively and fast with different pistols.