New Handgun Pair Suggestions?

[Roadwild17]

I was wondering if you guys could suggest a pair of handguns for me that are:

1) .45 ACP
2) Have a compact or sub compact (2.5-3.5 in barrel) and a full size (4-5 in barrel)
3) Have an external mechanical safety
4) Have a cap of atleast 7 rounds on the compact and 10 on the full-size.
5) The compact could take the full-size's mags
6) Cost is an matter, less than $2500 for both guns and a hand full of mags.
7) Must be SA/DA or have a double strike capability

 

[El Tejon]

Hey, Road, what's happening?

I know that pistol tastes are subjective but have you looked at the new TP45 from Kahr? Something you may want to consider.

Kahr TP45: http://www.kahr.com/PA-1_45acp_tp.html

 

[mavracer]

1911

 

[DMK]

XD?

http://www.springfield-armory.com/xd.php

 

[Baneblade]

Based on your requirements I believe you narrowed it down to 1911 variants. You have plenty of options there. That could make for a slick looking set.

 

[P97]

I really like the Ruger P97, but they are no longer made. The Ruger P90 is a very good gun at a reasonable price.

 

[wooderson]

The M&P45 would meet your full-size requirement, but not the sub/compact.

I think you're down to looking at variations on the 1911 - Kimber, Springfield, et al. make full-size and compact models.

 

[ugaarguy]

Yep, I think you're gonna be limited to 1911s and the XDs - if the XD's grip safety meets your external mechanical safety requirement. You could also go with the DA/SA metal frame S&W pistols, but you won't gain any capacity over 1911s.

 

[Keoni]

Factory new, I don't know. But three of the best pistols I've had are the early Kimber pre series II. Stainless Ultra Carry, Stainless Pro Carry and Classic Custom Target.

 

[Roadwild17]

The xd in 45 compact really isn't all to compact & doesn't have double strike capability, its not out of the pic yet, but its far behind. I didnt/dont know if kimber, spring, or colt make a double action. The for runner so far is the para lda series although the cary modules wont accept the high cap but I think the PXT LDA HI-CAP Carry will, have to check on that.

 

[ugaarguy]

If it must be DA/SA with restrike capability and an external safety, and have magazine compatability, then I think you're stuck with a DAO Para LDA, or the S&W metal frames with a few less rounds.

 

[modifiedbrowning]

Maybe a Witness fullsize and compact .45?

 

[Roadwild17]

It looks like the double strike capability is severally limiting my options, so I think I'm going to scratch that and drill on clearing malfunctions a little more. Being that opens the field a bit. What I'm thinking is something like Ultra Covert II and the Custom Covert II from Kimber.

 

[SnakeEater]

Although the mags don't interchange, I believe the HK USP series is the best .45 combo out there.