When John Moses Browning designed the .45 ACP cartridge in 1904, he wasn’t just creating ammunition—he was crafting a legacy. Born from the U.S. military’s need for stopping power after experiences in the Philippine-American War, the .45 ACP has since found its place far beyond the iconic 1911¹.
From innovative tactical builds to reliable classics, these 15 pistols showcase the enduring evolution and versatility of the legendary .45 ACP platform.
1. HK USP 45
The HK USP 45 represents German engineering at its finest. This service pistol combines reliability with exceptional accuracy, featuring HK’s renowned recoil reduction system that tames the .45’s substantial punch. The USP has proven itself in military and law enforcement use worldwide.
- 12-round magazine capacity
- Modular trigger group
- Polygonal barrel rifling
- Ambidextrous controls
- Corrosion-resistant finish
2. FNX-45 Tactical
FN’s flagship .45 delivers unprecedented capacity and versatility. This double-action pistol comes optics-ready and suppressor-ready straight from the factory, making it a favorite among tactical shooters and competitors alike.
- 15-round magazine capacity
- Threaded barrel
- MRD mounting system
- Fully ambidextrous controls
- Available in FDE or black
3. Smith & Wesson M&P45
The M&P45 brings modern polymer construction to the .45 platform. With its ergonomic grip design and interchangeable backstraps, this pistol offers exceptional comfort and adaptability for various hand sizes.
- 10+1 capacity
- Four interchangeable palm swell grips
- Stainless steel chassis
- Low bore axis design
- Armornite finish
4. Sig Sauer P220
A classic that defined reliability in .45 ACP service pistols. The P220’s single-stack design and superior build quality have made it a benchmark for quality among serious shooters.
- 8-round magazine capacity
- DA/SA trigger system
- Short reset trigger
- Nitron finish
- Tool-less takedown
5. CZ 97B
This full-size pistol brings CZ’s renowned ergonomics to the .45 ACP platform. The 97B offers exceptional accuracy and the smooth shooting characteristics CZ is famous for.
- 10-round capacity
- Cold hammer-forged barrel
- Aluminum frame
- Fixed three-dot sights
- Omega trigger system
6. Glock 21
Glock’s contribution to the .45 ACP world combines their legendary reliability with impressive capacity. The G21 has become a standard in law enforcement and civilian use alike.
- 13-round magazine capacity
- Safe-action trigger system
- Modular backstrap system
- Accessory rail
- Gen5 marksman barrel
7. HK Mark 23
Developed as a special operations pistol, the Mark 23 represents the pinnacle of .45 ACP engineering. This overbuilt powerhouse was designed to withstand extreme conditions.
- 12-round capacity
- Match grade barrel
- O-ring barrel seal
- Maritime spring cups
- Ambidextrous safety/decocker
8. Springfield XD-45
The XD series brings Croatian innovation to the .45 ACP market. With multiple safety features and excellent ergonomics, it’s become a popular choice for personal defense.
- 13+1 capacity
- Grip safety
- Fiber optic front sight
- Melonite finish
- Ultra Safety Assurance trigger
9. Walther PPQ 45
Walther’s entry into the .45 market brings their renowned trigger system to a larger platform. The ergonomics and quick target acquisition make it a joy to shoot.
- 12-round capacity
- Quick defense trigger
- Carl Walther barrel
- Adjustable backstrap
- Front and rear slide serrations
10. Steyr L-A1
The Austrian-made Steyr L-A1 brings unique ergonomics and an innovative sighting system to the .45 ACP platform. Its low bore axis and distinctive grip angle make it one of the most comfortable .45s to shoot.
- 10-round capacity
- Trapezoidal sighting system
- Reset Action System trigger
- Multiple safety features
- Integrated equipment rail
11. Para Ordnance P14-45
This double-stack 1911-style pistol revolutionized capacity in the platform. While Para is now defunct, these pistols remain sought after for their innovative design.
- 14-round capacity
- Power Extractor system
- Match grade barrel
- Full-length guide rod
- Fiber optic sights
12. Ruger American .45
Ruger’s modern take on the .45 ACP offers exceptional value and reliability. The American combines modern features with Ruger’s reputation for durability.
- 10-round capacity
- Pre-tensioned striker system
- Novak sights
- Modular grip system
- Duty-rated trigger
13. Beretta PX4 Storm .45
The unique rotating barrel system of the PX4 reduces felt recoil significantly. This Italian design brings innovation to the .45 ACP platform.
- 9-round capacity
- Rotating barrel system
- Interchangeable backstraps
- Picatinny rail
- Ambidextrous controls
14. Sig P227
The double-stack evolution of the P220 offers increased capacity while maintaining Sig’s legendary quality. Its refined ergonomics make it a pleasure to shoot.
- 10-round capacity
- E2 grip system
- SigLite night sights
- Enhanced ergonomics
- DA/SA trigger
15. Remington R1 Enhanced
Remington’s modern take on the .45 ACP platform offers match-grade features at a competitive price point. The Enhanced model includes several upgrades over the base version.
- 8-round capacity
- Adjustable rear sight
- Front strap checkering
- Match grade barrel
- Fiber optic front sight
Each of these pistols brings something unique to the .45 ACP world, proving that innovation in this caliber extends far beyond the 1911’s legacy. Whether you’re looking for maximum capacity, modern features, or classic styling, there’s a .45 out there for every shooter’s needs.
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Martha A. Lavallie
Martha is a journalist with close to a decade of experience in uncovering and reporting on the most compelling stories of our time. Passionate about staying ahead of the curve, she specializes in shedding light on trending topics and captivating global narratives. Her insightful articles have garnered acclaim, making her a trusted voice in today's dynamic media landscape.
