Recommendations for the Best Double Stack .45?

Looking for the Best Double Stack .45 Options

Hey everyone,

I’ve been diving into the world of double stack .45 ACP pistols and I’m trying to figure out which models are the best on the market right now. I’ve seen a lot of discussions about various brands and models, but I would love to get some feedback from those of you who’ve had hands-on experience.

What to Consider?

When looking for a reliable double stack .45, what factors should I keep in mind? Here are a few thoughts:

  • Reliability: Which models have proven to be the most reliable in various conditions?
  • Accuracy: How do they perform under pressure? Any recommendations for those that excel in competition shooting?
  • Self-Defense: Are there particular models that shine when it comes to self-defense?

Some Brands to Discuss

I’ve heard good things about:

  • Sig Sauer: Models like the P227 are often mentioned.
  • Springfield Armory: Their XD-M series seems popular.
  • Kimber: I’m curious about the Custom II.

Are there any standouts or any models to avoid? What has been your experience with these or any other brands?

Personal Preferences

If anyone has thoughts on trigger feel, ease of use, or features that you believe are a must-have, please share! I’m particularly interested in:

  • Size and weight considerations for concealed carry.
  • Maintenance and cleaning.
  • Price vs. performance: What’s the best bang for your buck?

Thanks in advance for your help! Looking forward to your responses and any recommendations you might suggest!


Update: If you have photos of your setups or if your .45 has a cool story behind it, feel free to share those too! The more info, the better.

For double stack .45s, I highly recommend checking out the Glock 21. It’s reliable and has a great capacity.

I completely agree! The Glock 21 is definitely a solid choice. But have you tried the SIG P220? It’s a bit on the pricier side, but the accuracy is fantastic.

The Springfield XD-M .45 is another excellent option. It feels great in the hand and comes with adjustable backstraps!

I second the XD-M. I also love the S&W M&P 2.0. It has a nice ergonomic design.

Has anyone had issues with recoil on these double stacks? My Glock 21 had some kick to it, but I still love it!

Recoil is definitely something to consider. The XD-M manages it really well, and I find it more manageable than the Glock.

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I own the FN FNX-45 Tactical, and it’s my favorite. It’s a bit heavy, but the threaded barrel is a bonus for those who suppress.

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The FNX is definitely appealing! I’m curious, how does it compare in terms of weight when fully loaded?

Overall weight is around 34 oz when loaded. It can feel hefty, but stability is key for accuracy.

Seems like I need to try the FNX-45! I’ve been leaning towards the Beretta PX4 Storm, though. Thoughts?

The PX4 is decent, but you might find it lacks the capacity of others. Still, it’s very comfortable to shoot!

The double stack .45 market is competitive! I’m amazed at how many great options there are.

Right? It almost feels like too many choices! But that’s a good problem to have, right?

Why is it always so hard to choose? It’s like picking a favorite child… except these can defend you!

Totally! An existential crisis over my favorite .45 sounds hilarious but seriously stressful.

For double stack .45 ACP, the Sig P220 is hard to beat! It offers great accuracy and manageable recoil for a .45. Plus, the fit in hand is superb.

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I agree, but don’t forget about the Springfield XD-M. It has a larger grip that allows for better control, especially for beginners.

While I appreciate the capacity of double stacks, I’ve found that they can be bulkier. I prefer the compact models for concealed carry.

That’s a valid point! However, with practice, recoil management can be mastered, even in larger models like the Glock 21.