Here's my .02. I would go with a 5" gun regardless of caliber. When I carried a 1911 I found little difference in concealing a Commander or 5". The .40 vs .45 is very debateable. I have a Kimber CST in .40 and a Custom in .45. The plus side of the .40 is free brass. Downside is smaller hole in target. I load my .40 long (1.200") and use 10 mm mags. There is not much difference in the recoil when both are loaded to a 165PF. The .45 is a little softer and slower during the recoil cycle. All that being said the .40 CST is my all time favorite "stock" 1911. It groups under 1" at 25 yds.

 

I'll give you my bit...I'm 5'11" and weigh 145...I can carry and hide a 5" no prob...in the summer too. The question is have you carried a 1911 before? If no...I would suggest the 5" to start. It's easier all the way around...You can always buy another :wink:

I like the 45 ACP...It's the only reason there's a 1911...IMO...Get the 45 first...Like I said...You can always buy another and there will be more 40s available after a spell. This is the first year for them I think...Either way...You'll enjoy the 1911...

 

I have a Kahr P40 Covert.Very small and lightweight(16oz).
But 95% of the time I carry my Kimber CDP Compact in 45. It just fits my hand better and shoots where I look. For long range target I use my custom Royal with 5". But hit almost as good with the 4". YMMV.

 

I have a Pro CDP but I am looking at a Custom CDP.:grin: The other 1" of slide & barrel will be sticking down your leg? Hence you will have no problem hiding it.
If I am going to be limited to just 9-11 rounds give me 9 .45 ACP over 11? .40 S&W's.
If we were talking Glock model 22's with 15+1 in the .40 caliber I might would go with the .40.
You can choose 7 or 8 defensive rounds in .45 ACP that will give 90+% 1 shot stops.
Also if you ever decide to sell (Heaven Forbid) you will be able to sell the .45 easier.
Just my $.02's worth.

BigDozer66


<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: BigDozer66 on 2001-12-27 13:44 ]</font>

 

Thanks for the input.
Today I shot off (pun intended) an e-mail to Dane Burns to perform a reliability package on a new Pro CDP II .45! :grin: :grin: :grin:
I'm anxious to join the ranks of Kimber .45 owners.

_________________
"Laws disarming honest citizens proclaim that
the government is the master, not the servant
of the people." appendix-The 2nd Ammendment Primer

<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: goballistic on 2001-12-29 02:49 ]</font>

 

Moderator:

You can probably delete this topic - has been asked and answered.
Thanks.