7 Best 45 ACP Pistols
The United States has contributed a lot to the world of firearms. Cartridges like the .30-06, the .30-30, and all our various .45 caliber cartridges have proven popular the world over. One of the most famous, if not the most famous, is the .45 ACP. The round is well over a century old but keeps on ticking around the world, especially at home with civilian shooters. It’s popular for self-defense, competition, and more.
Because of this, I’m constantly asked by friends and colleagues what’s the best .45 ACP handgun, and what I recommend. Now, I originally wrote this back in 2022, but over the years, new .45 ACP pistols have entered the market, and my opinion on a couple has changed. So, with that, let’s begin.
The .45 ACP In Living Color
John Moses Browning designed the .45 ACP way back in 1904 at the behest of the United States government. Testing by Thompson and LaGarde showed that the best round for a fighting force should be in .45 ACP. At this point, we didn’t have much knowledge of terminal ballistics. In their testing, big, heavy, and slow bullet rounds were more lethal to live animals than older, smaller caliber projectiles.
A lot has changed since then, but the .45 ACP remains largely the same. It served in the M1911, as well as the Thompson and the M3 submachine guns. It lasted from 1911 to 1985 in general service but still serves to this day in special roles. Stopping power might be a myth, but staying power isn’t, and the .45 ACP has some serious staying power.
The .45 ACP is naturally subsonic in the 230-grain FMJ loadings, so it’s great for suppressors. The big, heavy bullet moves slowly, and the recoil tends to be more of a push than a snap. Plus, we still love classic guns, and this classic caliber occupies plenty of them.
How I Chose the Best 45 ACP Pistols
When it comes to close-quarters combat, self-defense, and competition, having the right pistol matters a lot. As a former Marine with over twenty years of shooting experience, I’ve tested many pistols, especially those in .45 ACP. So, I know what makes a good one.
To make this list fair, I didn’t just rely on my own experiences. I also asked my friends who are professional shooters to help me out. By combining their knowledge with mine, I’ve made this list of the best .45 ACP pistols, taking into account their shootability, reliability, ergonomics, accuracy, and value.
I’ve ranked these guns from 1 to 7. However, as you will see, each one has a unique situation or use that would make it the preferred .45 ACP pistol for your particular use. Plus, I’ve also included a buyer’s guide to help you know what to look for when buying a .45 ACP pistol.
Gun University’s Choices of the Best 45 ACP Handguns
Best 45 ACP Pistol
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Best 45 ACP Handgun Specifications
Below is a table of the specs for each pistol. Click the name of the item to jump to that review.
| Handgun | Barrel Length (in) | Overall Length (in) | Weight (oz) | Capacity | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sig Sauer P220 | 4.4 | 7.7 | 30.4 | 8+1 | DA/SA |
| M1911 | 5.03 | 8.5 | 39 | 7+1 | Single Action |
| Glock 21 Gen 5 MOS | 4.61 | 8.07 | 29.10 | 13+1 | Striker Fired |
| FNX 45 Tactical | 5.3 | 8.6 | 33.3 | 15+1 | DA/SA |
| HK 45 | 4.46 | 8.03 | 31.2 | 10+1 | DA/SA |
| CZ 97 B | 4.65 | 8.3 | 41.3 | 10+1 | DA/SA |
| Ruger Vaquero | 3.75 | 9 | 37 | 6 | Single Action Only |
Best 45 ACP Pistol
Here is my list for the best 45 ACP pistols:
Best 45 ACP Handgun Reviews
1 SIG Sauer P220
SIG Sauer P220
With origins dating back to the late 1970s, the P220 is considered by many to be the one that started it all for SIG SAUER.
- Shootability A
- Reliability A
- Ergonomics B
- Accuracy A
- Value C
Our Grade
B+
Reader’s Grade
A
Based on 37 Reviews
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Sig Sauer P220 Specs
- Barrel Length 4.4 in
- Overall Length 7.7 in
- Weight 30.4 oz
- Capacity 8+1
- Action DA/SA
Sig Sauer P220 Review
The SIG Sauer P220 is a legendary firearm that hit the world in 1975 and helped prepare the world for what was to come in modern handguns. The P220 brought the SIG Sauer system to the United States and would help kick off the DA/SA generation of pistols. Their P220 series has remained in constant production since 1975, and standard models now come with a Nitron finish and rail for accessories.
In this era, the 45 double-stack magazine didn’t really exist, and SIG wisely chose to use a single-stack eight-round magazine to keep the grip from getting a little too wide. It’s remarkable that the P220 remains in production and has even outlasted the thicker P227. It’s one of the few .45 ACPs that has an easy-to-reach trigger, especially when the weapon is in single action.
Speaking of the P220 series, SIG Sauer has always had a fantastic series of DA/SA triggers and one of the best placements of de-cockers out there. It’s a great pistol, very ergonomic, and easy to handle overall. The thicker grip really helps dissipate recoil and makes the weapon comfortable to shoot.
They have ushered the P220 series into 2023 with optics-ready variations, as well as Legion models with single-action-only triggers. It’s constantly expanded and kept up with most of the modern features of handguns. The one downside many will face is the rather low magazine capacity. Beyond that, this is a proven and fantastic pistol and it takes the top spot on my list. Read our detailed review of the P220.
Sig Sauer P220 Pros and Cons
- Excellent Trigger
- Super Reliable
- Great Ergonomics
- Low Magazine Capacity
Sig Sauer P220 Deals
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$999.99
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$999.99
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$999.99
2 M1911
M1911
The original 45 ACP semi auto handgun designed by John M. Browning.
- Shootability A
- Reliability A
- Ergonomics A
- Accuracy B
- Value A
Our Grade
A-
Reader’s Grade
A
Based on 6 Reviews
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M1911 Specs
- Barrel Length 5.03 in
- Overall Length 8.5 in
- Weight 39 oz
- Capacity 7+1
- Action Single Action
M1911 Review
Of course, the M1911 has to make the list. It’s the first .45 ACP pistol and remains one of the most popular. Over a century later, there are still dozens of companies pumping out 1911s in every configuration you could dream of. If you want a cheap 1911, that’s an option. If you want to spend thousands and thousands of dollars on a 1911, that’s also an option. The M1911 occupies pretty much all price points possible, but here are our favorites.
The M1911 series is a single-action-only firearm that uses single-stack magazines. Magazine capacity varies from seven to 10 rounds, depending on how crazy you want to get. Here are our best 1911 magazines. The standard M1911 is not a little gun you’d often see. It comes with a five-inch barrel and full grip frame, but the compact Commander and Officer sizes exist as well. The standard model tends to be the most reliable.
Although it’s a .45 ACP, the M1911 is well-known for its lithe grip. It fits the hand just right with its perfect grip size and is one of the strongest arguments for the gun. Ergonomically it’s quite sound. While it’s adorned with safety devices, none of them are difficult to defeat on the fly. The recoil is more of a short push rather than a jolt, making it quite fun to shoot. Unlike guns with snappy recoil, this one offers a smoother shooting experience.
I can’t help but feel like a World War 2 GI hunting down the enemies of democracy with my .45 ACP. The charm of the M1911 is evident, and it’s easy to see why the gun has remained so popular. Even the cheaper models of the M1911 have awesome triggers and give you that GI experience. Speaking of downsides, it only has an eight-round magazine and is a pretty heavy and inefficient option compared to modern pistols.
M1911 Pros and Cons
- Great Trigger
- Excellent Ergonomics
- Proven Design
- Low Capacity
M1911 Deals
3 Glock 21 Gen 5
Glock 21 Gen 5
A full size Glock frame chambered in the venerable 45 ACP cartridge
- Shootability B+
- Reliability A
- Ergonomics B
- Accuracy B+
- Value A-
Our Grade
B+
Reader’s Grade
B+
Based on 5 Reviews
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Glock 21 Specs
- Barrel Length 4.61 in
- Overall Length 8.07 in
- Weight 29.10 oz
- Capacity 13+1
- Action Striker Fired
Glock 21 Review
Let’s follow the M1911 with its arch-rival, the Glock. In reality, they aren’t rivals, but Glock owners and M1911 owners certainly like to argue about which is better. Glock has made many notable advancements in the fighting pistol marketplace, and those come home to the .45 ACP in the form of the Glock 21, full review here.
What’s most notable about the Glock 21 is the fact it brought double-stack magic to the .45 ACP cartridge without an absurd-sized grip. It’s big but manageable. The Glock 21 holds 13 rounds in its flush-fitting magazine. The SF, or Short Frame, model trimmed the grip a bit from the original G21 to make it a little easier to reach the trigger for smaller hands.
The Glock 21 is now in the 5th generation of Glocks, and it’s the one to purchase. These variants have ambidextrous slide stops, a redesigned, more ergonomic grip, a match-grade barrel, and more. Perhaps most importantly, there is an MOS variant that makes adding an optic easy. Add a light and red dot, and you have a very modern pistol for defensive purposes.
If I had to go to war today and had to choose a .45 ACP pistol, it would be the Glock 21. The Glock series of pistols are incredibly reliable. They just don’t stop. They don’t require tons of maintenance, they don’t mind nonpermissive environments, and they are the preeminent choice of special operations troops.
One of the big downsides to the Glock 21 is going to be its crappy plastic sights. Why such a nice gun has such terrible sights is beyond me, but there is no shortage of great options to upgrade them. Both the Glock and M1911 have a vast aftermarket ready to upgrade your handgun as you see fit.
Glock 21 Pros and Cons
- Excellent Capacity
- Modern Features
- Great Capacity
- Crappy Sights
Glock 21 Deals
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$620.00
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$662.99
4 FNX 45 Tactical
FNX 45 Tactical
One of the most battle-ready pistols ever made, the FNX 45 Tactical can do it all and then some.
- Shootability A
- Reliability A+
- Ergonomics A
- Accuracy A+
- Value B
Our Grade
A
Reader’s Grade
B+
Based on 11 Reviews
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FNX 45 Tactical Specs
- Barrel Length 5.3 in
- Overall Length 8.6 in
- Weight 33.3 oz
- Capacity 15+1
- Action DA/SA
FNX 45 Tactical Review
The modern handgun market has become dominated by pistols with rails, an optics-ready design, and a threaded barrel for suppressors and compensators. Before that, mainstream FN did it with the FNX 45 Tactical pistols. It’s nuts how far ahead of the curve they were and how little we recognize them for it. To this day, the FNX 45 Tactical is still a brilliant pistol and a very modern .45 ACP design.
This polymer frame pistol has a 10-round flush-fitting magazine to give you a few extra rounds without creating a massive grip. However, if you want more, there is a 15-round magazine with an extended base pad. The gun uses a DA/SA system with a manual safety for cocked and locked carry. It’s one of the few guns that I consider truly optics-ready out of the box.
What I mean is that FN includes suppressor height sights that allow for clean co-witnessing through the optic. This can be valuable when your optic breaks or the battery dies, and you need to revert to iron sights. Speaking of, the FNX 45 Tactical does come with two plates to fit a variety of optics, including options from Holosun and Trijicon.
I did accuracy testing on this gun, and it performed admirably. It’s fairly soft shooting, easy to handle, and delivers excellent accuracy. While the single action is quite crisp, the double action leaves something to be desired. It’s not terrible, but I’ve handled and experienced better options.
FNX 45 Tactical Pros and Cons
- Excellent Capacity
- Tons of Modern Features
- Great SA Trigger
- DA Trigger Leaves Something to Be Desired
- Expensive
FNX 45 Tactical Deals
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$999.00
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$1,199.00
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$1,248.99
5 HK 45
- Shootability A+
- Reliability A
- Ergonomics A
- Accuracy A
- Value B
Our Grade
A
Reader’s Grade
A-
Based on 9 Reviews
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HK 45 Specs
- Barrel Length 4.46 in
- Overall Length 8.03 in
- Weight 31.2 oz
- Capacity 10+1
- Action DA/SA
HK 45 Review
The HK45 series is a direct descendent of the HK Mark 23 and USP45 series of pistols. It’s the modern variation of these guns that’s optimized for the .45 ACP cartridge. It was initially designed for the failed Joint Pistol Program put on by the United States military and had input from Delta Force operator Larry Vickers and famed firearms instructor Ken Hackathorn. While the joint Pistol Program fell apart, the weapon was adopted as the MK 24 MOD 0 by the Navy SEALs.
From the USP and MK23, it gets an absurd level of reliability. This is a handgun designed from the ground up to be abused and beaten. The best testament to this pistol is that they can issue it to a Private in a military force, and they won’t be able to break it without a sledgehammer.
With the HK45, shooters get a very ergonomic grip design. It’s surprisingly nice and thin, especially compared to other double-stack .45s. This gun holds ten rounds in its flush-fitting magazine and uses a DA/SA system. HK makes many variants, including a DAO LEM, a de-cocker, a safety, and everything in between.
HK uses the famed USP recoil-reducing system, which is a fancy way to describe a dual spring recoil guide rod. Even though it’s not quite a fancy system as HK describes it, it adds more energy to lessen recoil, making the HK45 an easy-shooting handgun. There are two downsides. First, these are tough to find. Second, HK hasn’t kept the gun super modern and adopted optics support.
HK 45 Pros and Cons
- Easy Shooting
- Amazing Ergonomics
- Unbeatable Reliability
- Hard to Find
HK 45 Deals
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$685.99
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$675.00
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$749.00
6 CZ 97 B
- Shootability A
- Reliability A
- Ergonomics A+
- Accuracy A+
- Value B
Our Grade
A
Reader’s Grade
A-
Based on 2 Reviews
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CZ 97B Specs
- Barrel Length 4.65 in
- Overall Length 8.3 in
- Weight 41.3 oz
- Capacity 10+1
- Action DA/SA
CZ 97B Review
I’m a huge CZ fan, and the CZ 75B series are some of my favorite guns. It’s easy to see why the CZ 97B would make the list. The 97B uses the same system as the CZ 75B, and they are basically the same gun outside of caliber and frame size. Predictably the chunkier .45 ACP cartridge makes the 97B larger than the 9mm CZ 75. Interestingly enough, CZ designed the weapon in the middle of the Clinton Assault Weapons Ban, which banned magazines of more than ten rounds.
It seems CZ figured if you can only carry ten rounds, they might as well be a big ten rounds. The 97B predictably holds ten rounds in its flush-fitting magazine. CZ still found a way to bring those CZ ergonomics to the .45 ACP platform. It doesn’t miss a beat in providing a grip nearly any hand can love. It encourages a nice high grip with a slight beavertail and trigger guard undercut. Plus, the grip safety adds an extra layer of security, making sure the pistol is ready to go when you are.
The smaller-than-average slide size reduces the bulk being thrown rearward at you, and this, in turn, reduces felt recoil and muzzle rise. This makes it one of the softer shooting platforms on the market and helps keep the big booming .45 ACP under control.
The reduced muzzle flip is a real bonus, letting you get off quicker follow-up shots. The DA/SA trigger system is solid, with both the single and double action feeling nice and crisp, though the reset is a bit longer than I’d like. On top of that, the CZ 97B handles muzzle energy really well, which is a big part of why it feels so smooth to shoot.
The downside is that CZ recently discontinued the series. That being said, they still aren’t tough to find and will certainly be an awesome option if you snag one soon.
CZ 97B Pros and Cons
- Easy Shooting
- Amazing Ergonomics
- Great Trigger
- Recently Discontinued
CZ 97B Deals
7 Ruger Vaquero
- Shootability B
- Reliability A+
- Ergonomics A
- Accuracy B
- Value A
Our Grade
A-
Reader’s Grade
A+
Based on 1 Reviews
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Ruger Vaquero Specs
- Barrel Length 3.75 in
- Overall Length 9 in
- Weight 37 oz
- Capacity 6
- Action Single Action Only
Ruger Vaquero Review
I always love to toss in a bit of a wild card in the mix, and my wild card for .45 ACP handguns is the Ruger Vaquero. The Vaquero, if you don’t know, is a single-action revolver largely based on the Colt Single Action Army. It’s not a gun we see automatic cartridges in often. Ruger makes it available as just a .45 ACP option, or they have a convertible model with a .45 Long Colt cylinder and a .45 ACP cylinder.
My favorite is the 3.75-inch Vaquero with its bird head’s grip and stainless finish. It’s a sweet, good-looking gun that’s handy and balanced. However, longer barrels and standard grips are an option as well. The major benefit of a .45 ACP revolver is ammo prices. Have you shopped .45 Colt lately? It’s expensive! If you purchase a .45 ACP Vaquero, it’s much cheaper to shoot and enjoy.
You still get the cowboy design and the crisp and smooth single-action trigger. However, you get cheaper, more common ammo that’s arguably more versatile. There are tons of .45 ACP loadings, from the big 230-grain FMJs to lighter 180 JHPs. We can use it for predator defense or simply to enjoy some range time. The .45 ACP doesn’t have a rim, but it headspaces on a small shoulder inside the cylinder, which makes it easy to load. Additionally, it has an ejection rod that enables quick unloading.
The Vaqueros in .45 ACP is tougher to find, but you can also purchase a .45 ACP conversion cylinder and make your .45 Colt a .45 ACP if you so choose.
Ruger Vaquero Pros and Cons
- Cheap Ammo
- Cowboy Style Fun
- Great Trigger
- It’s tough to find
Ruger Vaquero Deals
Best 45 ACP Pistols – Buyer’s Guide
If you’re in the market for a .45 ACP pistol, there are several factors to consider to make sure you choose the best option for your needs. But don’t worry, here’s a comprehensive buyer’s guide that you can follow to make an informed decision when choosing a .45 ACP pistol.
Factors To Consider When Buying a 45 ACP Pistol
Intended Use: Think about why you want a .45 ACP pistol. Is it for self-defense, competing at the range, or just enjoying some leisurely shooting? Knowing this helps narrow down your choices and find the perfect gun that suits your needs best.
Size: Think about the pistol’s size, especially if you’re interested in a large pistol. Bigger pistols can give you better control and accuracy, but they might be a bit bulky for concealed carry. Balance the size with how you plan to use the pistol to ensure it’s both practical and comfortable for your needs.
Action Type: Consider how you want your pistol to operate. Some have a smooth, single-action trigger pull, like the classic 1911, giving you precision with each shot. Others, like the Sig Sauer P220, offer a double-action mechanism for added safety and ease of use.
Capacity: Decide how many rounds you want your pistol to hold. Higher-capacity pistols, such as the Glock 21, give you more shots before needing to reload, which can be handy in tense situations. But if you prefer a more traditional feel, a single-stack magazine like the one in the 1911 might be more your style.
Ergonomics: Pay attention to how the pistol feels in your hand. A comfortable grip means better control and less fatigue during long shooting sessions. Try out different models to find one that fits your hand nicely and feels natural to hold.
Reliability: You want a pistol you can trust, right? Look for ones with a solid reputation for reliability. Check out reviews from other shooters to get a sense of how well a particular model performs in real-world situations.
Accuracy: Consider factors like barrel length, sight options, and trigger quality to assess a pistol’s accuracy. Longer barrels typically offer better precision, while high-quality sights and triggers help you place your shots exactly where you want them.
Value: Think about what you’re getting for your money. While some pistols may have fancy features, others offer great performance at a lower cost. Decide what features are most important to you and find a pistol that offers the best bang for your buck.
Aftermarket Support: Consider whether you might want to customize your pistol down the line. Models with extensive aftermarket support, like the 1911 and Glock 21, give you plenty of options for upgrading with aftermarket triggers, sights, and grips.
Personal Preference: Ultimately, the best .45 ACP pistol for you is the one that feels right in your hands and performs well for your needs. Take your time to try out different models and find the one that suits you best.
Conclusion
The .45 ACP is creeping its way to retirement. Modern projectiles have gotten better, and it’s made .45 ACP less and less valid for defensive use. As we’ve discovered that things like stopping power are a myth, and that shot placement is what counts, the old warhorse is slowly marching her way to a nice restful place.
Well, she would be if people still didn’t adore the .45 ACP. In the civilian market, it’s still one of the more popular rounds and continues to be a favorite of a great many shooters. There is something comforting about the .45 ACP. Much like the .30-06 and .30-30, it’s an American invention with a long history of success. As a young country, we tend to stick to our successes.
Best 45 ACP Pistols – FAQs
What are some famous pistols chambered in .45 ACP?
Some of the most famous pistols chambered in .45 ACP include the Colt M1911, the SIG Sauer P220, the Glock 21, the FN FNX 45 Tactical, and the HK45.
What is a standard military loading for .45 ACP pistols?
The standard military loading for .45 ACP pistols is the 230-grain Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) round. This load was adopted by the U.S. military in World War I and has been the go-to choice ever since. Its reliability and stopping power have made it a consistent favorite.
What is the service life of a 45 ACP handgun?
The service life of a .45 ACP handgun varies based on factors like usage and maintenance. With proper care, these firearms can last for many years and thousands of rounds. Regular cleaning, lubrication, and adherence to manufacturer guidelines help maintain performance and reliability.
What’s the best .45 ACP handgun for cowboy-style shooting?
For that authentic cowboy feel with the power of .45 ACP, look no further than the Ruger Vaquero. It’s a single-action revolver that’s reminiscent of the iconic Colt Single Action Army, perfect for those who enjoy the spirit of cowboy shooting.
How does the bullet weight affect the performance of a .45 ACP pistol?
Bullet weight can really change how a .45 ACP pistol performs. Heavier bullets, like the 230-grain, usually pack more stopping power and hit harder. On the other hand, lighter bullets can travel faster and have a flatter trajectory. Your choice often boils down to what you’re using the pistol for—self-defense might call for heavier rounds, while target shooting could benefit from lighter ones.
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About Travis Pike
Travis is a former United States Marine Corps Infantryman and currently a firearms writer, instructor, and works in Emergency Management.
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Have 2 Kimber and 1 Glock 21C,Love my Kimbers,Eclipse Target 2 and a Ultra Raptor, both are very accurate and never jam.