Which .45 ACP

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crawdaddy

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Ok, I know this is a Chevy vs Ford thing, but in the future I'll be buying a .45 caliber semi-auto handgun. I'm starting my research as to which one will join my "collection". At one time I was leaning toward the XD, but the only .45 I've ever shot was a Glock, but my favorite was a 9MM Sig. I don't want a 1911...yet, I want a strong, reliable, accurate .45. I know that you have to get what feels right so I'm really looking to narrow it down to a few that i can go shoot and see which one "calls" to me. I'm more of a revolver guy but i have some experience and knowledge with semi-autos.
If the opinions get too strong here maybe someone can just point me in the direction i can find some good factual information.
 
I own handguns in .45 acp in the following models:

Colt 1911 (2)
Witness Fullsize (4)
Witness Compact (1)
Springfield XD (1)

The one I carry on a daily basis is the XD, and these days the one I shoot the most. I've been carrying a handgun for over 40 years, and the XD has become my favorite semi-auto handgun format. In fact, I've got them in 9x19, 357 Sig and .45 acp. My lastest acquisition is a 9x19 XD-M. I've only been able to get to the range with it once since I got it last week, but at 20 yards, the very first round was a center X.

Hope this helps.

Fred
 
the Sig 220ST

since you're a wheelgun guy the DA woun't bother you and the stainless frame really tames the recoil...shoots like a 9mm
 
para gi expert is excellent for the $, but since you don't want a 1911, swmp45 or glock are equally good too, just comes down to personal preference (feel, size, etc)

had an xd 45 for about a month, nothing but probs so sold it
 
First off, the Chevy vs Ford thing is OVER. Ford won. Don't believe me? Read the papers.:p
Second, I've never shot an XD that I liked. Even owned one. I'm now very happy with my Glock 21.
 
If you do not want a 1911, and you want a full size, I highly recommend an HK45.
It has a nice SA trigger, and is as accurate as any 1911 I have shot for the same money. The recoil is also mild.

I also recommend the Sig 220. It is a proven handgun, and had a good DA and SA trigger pull.
 
My pick in a 45 acp

Springfield XD 45 compact with 4'' barrel. Overall height of 5'' (so it's concealable) and 10 + 1 capacity. Comfortable to shoot. Mine has been reliable and the price is right. You could pay more for a 45 and not actually get more.
 
My first choice in a non-1911 .45acp would be the FNP-45. I have one (matte stainless) and love it. I use it as a range gun and as a HD pistol, and it has been flawless (for HD it is loaded with 200gr Hornady TAP +p and it is a genuine pleasure to shoot with +p). My second choice would probably be a SIG P220 - I am planning to buy one later in the year (missed out on a good deal on a P220 combat earlier, but I'm patient).
 
There are ALOT of good .45's out there. I prefer Glocks. I carry a 21 on my side with a 30 as a back up gun at work. But, I have also shot Springfield XD's (which would be my #2 choice), HK's (my #3 choise), Sigs (#4), and S&W's (#5). However, if you really do not want a 1911, I would guess that you would prolly not want the Sig either. Glock vs. Springfield is VERY Chevy vs. Ford but, in the long run they are both very good guns. I am a Glock Armorer with enough parts to build a couple more Glocks if I had the frames and slides. I also fully understand every function of the Glock. If I knew the XD's that well, I would prolly be recommending one of them to you.
 
I am in the same situation, shopping for a .45, so I will be following this thread closely. The only thing specific to my situation is a budget of $500. I am bouncing back and forth between the XD-45 and the Glock G21. I would like a 1911 but not sure I can find a quality one at that price point.

If you decide on one Crawdaddy let us know.
 
you should shoot:

1. Sig220
2. Glock 30 (more size efficient than a G21)
3. H&K USP (I've never shot an HK45, maybe that also?)
4. Kimber or Springfield Armory 1911
5. Springfield Armory XD45

pick the one that fits your hand and intended use, the best. All are great pistols. Glock 30 is most size-efficient and cost-effective, H&K's are the most expensive and top-quality production, Sig's have a great trigger, 1911 from a quality manufacturer is a classic and time-tested design, XD's are a great value and very new-shooter friendly design.

also consider (I have no experience with):
1. FNP
2. M&P
3. Sig and S&W 1911's
 
Thank you all for your replies, especially the ones with more detailed information. When I decided to buy my first center fire handgun, I first looked at the Glock, then I found an article on the XDM, then I thought about my wife having to grab a gun in the middle of the night and not remembering to chamber a round or switch the safety off, so I went with a .357 revolver and love it. Now I want a .45 mostly for fun, maybe for occasional carry or Home defense, But If I can find a way in to IDPA matches (in the process of trying to learn about it) I would be able to compete in two divisions, so another thing i left out was I would like if the barrel was 4.2" or shorter (but not to much shorter). I haven't looked back at the Glocks since the XD bug bit me, I need to research some more...Thanks Again for all the information.
 
HK45- nicest ergos of any gun I have held. HK also has a name for some of the best guns money (lots of it, to be clear) can buy.

XD45- My favorite gun to shoot. comes in at almost half the HK and isn't far behind it IMO.
 
I love my west german SIG P220. It is the most accurate and reliable pistol I own. It's almost like shooting a .45 caliber laser:)
 
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