I am seriously considering purchasing a new Defender sized 1911. I like the Colt, Sig, and EMP. The Colt is actually the least expensive...

The real question is should I get the .45ACP or the 9mm?

I currently have pistols in 9mm .380 and .40 S&W. I would prefer to not have to add another caliber. After saying that, I realize that there is a school of thought that all 1911s should be .45ACP. I respect this opinion but my very first gun was a Colt Mark IV Series 80 in 9mm. At 21 years old, I could not afford .45ACP ammo.

The 9mm also has an extra round in the magazine.

All that said, I would really like the brain trust's opinion and experience shooting the Defender sized 1911. Thank you all.

I have 2017 vers. of the Defender in 9mm and .45. I prefer the 9mm for carry and shooting costs. Fully loaded, the .45 is heavier on the belt.

When both firearms are the same size and configuration, I always opt for the more powerful cartridge.

But then I am a big fan of the 45ACP


Yes, I know it is an Officer's ACP, but I do not own a Defender

I own a Colt Defender in 45. I bought it with the idea of carrying it. I never realty carried for long and wished it was 9mm. I would probably shoot it more for fun.

I think it depends on your intended use.

To paraphrase Mas Ayoob, if you are shooting hardball, you want it to make the biggest hole possible.

So, if you plan on it as a primary sd/carry pistol, I would lean toward .45 as the short barrel could inhibit velocity and therefore expansion of either. So .45 ball is better than 9mm ball. The modern 9mm ammo might expand at lower velocities, or generate more velocity from the short barrel, but the .45 won't shrink.

As much as I love the .45, for a range gun, this one might be more fun in 9mm, with the added benefit of being more economical to shoot. If you are going to own just one .45 for the range, I think it needs at least a 4" and preferably a 5" barrel.

Suggest you also consider Colt Light-weight Commander in 9mm. Has better barrel twist and absolutely standard insides. The nested recoil springs actually do seem to smooth-out recoil.

Have dealt with two of them and have been favorably impressed. Excellent for carry or for range.