When talking about the .45 ACP, it’s not possible not to refer to its history. It’s a cartridge that survived great wars, from World War I to Vietnam, and developed a reputation as a hard-kicking cartridge that could knock down an enemy with authority. But new developments in ammunition have put the .45 ACP back in the forefront, with new models being released even as recently as April of 2023.
Regardless of the presence of the other popularly utilized calibers, the .45 ACP is still the champion among most shooters, particularly among those who are fond of the raw power and the feeling of security brought about by its battle-tested efficiency. Its larger-diameter bullet, by nature, outshines as a subsonic bullet, providing versatility with any barrel length.
Moving on to the more recent .45 ACP pistol lines, we find compact versions such as the Smith & Wesson M&P 45 Shield M2.0, an excellent EDC choice. With aggressive grip texturing and a stainless steel frame, it provides reliability and accuracy. As a double-action/single-action (DA/SA) gun, the Sig Sauer P220 Legion is still a formidable choice with a P-SAIT trigger and day/night high-visibility sights.
Walther’s PPQ .45 ACP features on the list with its superb ergonomics and trigger mechanism allowing fast, accurate shooting. Then there is the ubiquitous Glock 21 Gen 4, the full-size striker-fired handgun that has earned its reputation for reliability and versatility. Heckler & Koch’s USP 45 Tactical cannot be ignored with sub-2-inch groupings at 25 yards due to its match-grade trigger and accuracy barrel.
No list can exist without revolvers, and the Ruger Redhawk .45 ACP/.45 Colt revolver is proof positive of the versatility of the .45 ACP cartridge in various firearm configurations. It features a solid frame and no side plates and has premium-class durability and recoil management.
Finishing off tactical models, the FN FNX-45 Tactical screamed “tacticool,” offering a package with a threaded barrel and suppressor-height sights. Another best concealed secret is the SAR K2, which keeps a low profile with a gigantic 14+1 capacity, combining pieces of the CZ 75 and 97 series with its slide-in-frame design.
