Since Colt introduced the M1911 in 1911, .45 ACP pistols have personified American firepower. That classic firearm served the U.S. military as its official sidearm from World War I through Vietnam. However, by April 2023, this diverse array of .45 ACP pistols had cropped up to come out of the shadow of 1911 and strut their stuff.
If it’s concealed carry that one is looking at, something shining would be the Smith & Wesson M&P 45 Shield M2.0. This striker-fired polymer pistol provides excellent purchase through an aggressive texture. Outfitted with a 6 to 7-round capacity and inbuilt durability via the stainless steel chassis and slide with an Armornite finish, this handgun becomes quite ready for everyday carry. Smith & Wesson offers further improvements through their Performance Center with many made upgrades.
The Sig Sauer P220 Legion features a Cerakote Elite Legion Gray-coated slide and frame with black G10 grips that host an embedded Legion medallion. It has a P-SAIT trigger with a smooth, consistent pull, crisp break, and short reset for credibility in an 8+1 capacity pistol. Particularly, the external hammer-fired DA/SA pistol comes fitted with Sig Sauer Electro-Optics X-RAY hi-vis day/night sights.
Walther’s PPQ .45 ACP is another full-size .45, raved about for its curved grip, cross-direction grip surface, and 5.6-pound trigger that’s “surprisingly good.” It features an ambidextrous magazine release and holds 12 rounds, with the PPQ 45 gaining high regard for reliable feeding and firing. The top five also include Glock’s 21 Gen 4, referred to as a “workhorse” designed for reliability and modularity with its 13+1 capacity.
For the revolver enthusiast, the Ruger Redhawk is offered in .45 ACP, with a “triple-locking cylinder and no side plates” to taut its strength and recoil management; all of this can be matched up with a DA/SA trigger mechanism delivering a smooth pull and clean break. The FNX-45 Tactical adds some tactical flair, with a threaded 5.3-inch barrel, a capacity of 15+1, and suppressor-height Trijicon sights.
each .45-caliber pistol has its advantages and possible drawbacks to consider, so the choice would be based on individual preferences or needs. From concealed carry to tactical use and total reliability, today there are choices available in .45 ACP pistols that go beyond the venerable 1911.