The .45 ACP is as American as they come—conceived by John Browning in 1905 and popularized by the iconic M1911. The 1911 has been a favorite among shooters for more than a century, and it’s easy to see why. But the reality is, there’s a universe of .45 ACP pistols that provide alternative attributes, greater capacity, and newer designs. If you’re looking for something fresh that still delivers the punch of the .45 ACP, it’s worth taking a look at the best non-1911 options on the market.
Before jumping into the list, let’s touch on what makes a great .45 ACP outside the classic 1911. Accuracy, capacity, and reliability are key, along with solid build quality, useful features, and good overall value. Availability matters too—you don’t want to hunt for a model that’s been discontinued. And of course, how it feels in your hand and suits your purpose—whether that’s concealed carry, home defense, or competition—is just as important. Here’s a reverse countdown of the top recommendations worth your time:
7. SAR K2 45 / IWI Baby Eagle 45
The SAR K2 45 is somewhat of a sleeper for devotees of all-metal pistols. Based on the CZ 75/97 series, it provides a substantial steel frame and a whopping 14+1 capacity—well more than the CZ 97’s 10 rounds. The DA/SA trigger is silky smooth, and with its adjustable rear sights and accessory rail, it’s equipped to handle just about anything. It’s also less expensive in the wallet than its CZ cousin. The IWI (or Magnum Research) Baby Eagle 45 is another steel-frame powerhouse, with slide-in-frame design to mellow out the recoil and deliver accuracy. Though it maxes out at 10 rounds, its tough reliability makes it a good bet for anyone who desires a pistol as tough as a tank.
6. HK USP 45 Expert / HK45 Tactical V1
Heckler & Koch’s USP 45 Expert is a favorite of target shooters due to its match-grade polygonal barrel, adjustable trigger stop, and oversized trigger guard for gloved operation. Ambidextrous controls and HK’s familiar safety/decocker also make it a winner. The HK45 Tactical V1 throws in a threaded barrel for suppressor mounting, tall sights, and adjustable grip panels. Its 10-round capacity may not be leading the way, but the quality, accuracy, and DA/SA action make it a favorite of both tactical and competitive shooters.
5. Smith & Wesson M&P 45 Shield Performance Center / M&P 2.0 Compact 45
The Smith & Wesson M&P family is all about contemporary ergonomics and reliability. The M&P 45 Shield Performance Center is designed for concealed carry—thin, light, with a ported barrel and fiber optic sights. It holds 6+1 or 7+1 rounds, but melts away under clothes easily. The M&P 2.0 Compact 45 provides a little more punch with 10+1 rounds, as well as a stainless-steel chassis for added strength and accuracy. The enhanced trigger and optional manual safety offer shooters versatility, making it a viable and well-rounded option.
4. Sig Sauer P220 Legion
The P220 Legion merges traditional Sig Sauer craftsmanship with contemporary innovations. Offered in DA/SA or SAO, it features a Legion Gray Cerakote finish, textured G10 grips, and Sig’s outstanding P-SAIT trigger with a short reset. X-RAY tritium sights, a recontoured trigger guard, and a beavertail extension make it comfortable and manageable. Its 8+1 capacity might be small, but its accuracy, performance, and construction more than compensate. Both iron-sight and optics-ready versions are offered for those wanting additional choice.
3. FN FNX-45 Tactical
The FNX-45 Tactical is a behemoth. With its 15+1 capacity, it competes with most 9mm pistols in power while offering the deep recoil of .45 ACP. Its polymer frame keeps it light, and it features a threaded barrel, suppressor-height sights, and interchangeable backstraps. All controls are fully ambidextrous and lefty-friendly. Although its DA/SA trigger isn’t the smoothest on this list, the FNX-45’s capacity, reliability, and tactical design render it one of the most versatile .45s currently on the market.
2. Glock 21
If reliability had a mascot, it could well be the Glock 21. This full-size, striker-fired pistol has a capacity of 13+1 and uses a rugged polymer frame. The new generation includes a refined trigger, front slide serrations, ambidextrous slide stop, and Glock’s Marksman Barrel for enhanced accuracy. Interchangeable backstraps and an eversible magazine release make it easily accommodated for various shooters. It isn’t the prettiest gun, but its reliability and massive aftermarket support make it a strong contender.
1. Walther PPQ 45
Walther’s PPQ 45 is notable for its comfortable to hold, crisp trigger, and perfectly sized. At 12+1, it’s large enough for home protection but manageable at the range. Ergonomics is superb with large, simple controls, ambidextrous components, and exchangeable backstraps. The trigger is one of the best in class, with a clean break and short, positive reset. Though somewhat large for regular concealed carry, its reliability and shootability have won it a devoted following.
When selecting a non-1911 .45 ACP, consider your application—carry, defense, or sport shooting. Determine if you want striker-fired or DA/SA, what capacity you desire, and if you want features such as optics readiness or suppressor capability. Most importantly, select something that fits well in your hand and gives you confidence.
Despite the popularity of 9mm, the .45 ACP continues to draw shooters with its stopping power, naturally subsonic function, and rich heritage. And as these pistols demonstrate, you do not have to remain loyal to the 1911 to appreciate everything this cartridge has to give.