Looking for a .45 for carry.

[USA1]

I always wanted a Glock when I was younger, but it seems that I grew out of that as I am looking to purchase. Nothing against them, but I am looking for something that is a little "flashy" as my wife would say.

Say no more...

[dicion]

I always wanted a Glock when I was younger, but it seems that I grew out of that as I am looking to purchase. Nothing against them, but I am looking for something that is a little "flashy" as my wife would say.

Say no more...

1911's in general are, in my opinion, some of the most aesthetically pleasing to look at firearms that exist...

So Kimber definately wins in the visual requirement of the ones you listed, IMO
The One I carry daily is right here ↓↓↓↓

[karder]

As others have said, all three guns you are considering are good choices, so it is not like you will make a mistake. Personally, I would recommend the Kimber. The reason for this is because the 1911 platform is so popular. You will have a much greater range of holsters and accessories than with the other two options. A big part of CC is putting the right set of gear together that fits your taste and lifestyle and the Kimber will give you more options. Just my two cents.

[SpringerFan]

I know you had posted about the XDM45, but you might also look at the XD45 Compact model. Holds 13 rounds in the full mag and also has the flush 10 round mag for better concealment. I have owned both the XDM and the XD45 Compact and the compact was quite a bit easier to conceal with the flush mag. Just a thought.

[Reloader]

I recently purchased TWO Glock 30 S for just a little less than the price of one 1911 pistol. They came sequentially serial numbered. I prefer a 1911 but money was a concern. I would be putting a crimson trace laser on both of them. For my purposes the extra three rounds of the Glocks is a deciding factor as well as the weight.

[texjames]

I carry a Kimber Crimson Carry Ultra in a Crossbreed Super Tuck. Useing Kim Pro Tac Mags.Super light awesome accurate.
I also own a XDM 45 but sure would not want to CCW it unless mabe wearing a really heavy winter coat.

[Texas Dan Mosby]

First, thank you all for the input so far, although it has not really helped me to sway one way or the other. Being that they are all good guns is only making the decision more complicated.

Since you have decided on a cal, refine your search as follows:

1. Identify what features you want.
- Do you want a "point and press" arm like a Glock, or do you want a manual safety that must be operated?
- Do you want a gun that is highly customizable so you can truly make it "yours", or are you satisfied with what comes from the factory?
- How much ammo do you want in the mag?

2. Narrow your focus to those arms that have the features you want.

3. Handle and shoot the arms.

4. Choose the arm within your budget that is the most comfortable and that you can shoot accurately and fast.

Only YOU can decide.

[Excaliber]

First, thank you all for the input so far, although it has not really helped me to sway one way or the other. Being that they are all good guns is only making the decision more complicated.

Since you have decided on a cal, refine your search as follows:

1. Identify what features you want.
- Do you want a "point and press" arm like a Glock, or do you want a manual safety that must be operated?
- Do you want a gun that is highly customizable so you can truly make it "yours", or are you satisfied with what comes from the factory?
- How much ammo do you want in the mag?

2. Narrow your focus to those arms that have the features you want.

3. Handle and shoot the arms.

4. Choose the arm within your budget that is the most comfortable and that you can shoot accurately and fast.

Only YOU can decide.

Texas Dan Mosby's advice is solid.

I would add consider how you plan to wear it and try the guns you're considering in a holster on the belt you plan to wear with your style of clothing. This may flush out preferences for a lightweight frame vs. steel, or a compact grip instead of a full size one.

[cubbyjg]

If you are looking for a full size 1911, how about a taurus 1911? I have read some reviews about them and they seem like a good value. I think i might pick one up when i get my tax return next year...

[Frobert]

As I walked through the Allen Gun Show today I got to handle a lot of different guns. As I tried them side by side it is easier to determine what feels better. The XDM feels "rough" and thick compared to most others. I know single vs double stack. I am getting more used to the thumb safety idea, making my choices more opened. I really liked the feel of the 1911s, both in size and weight. I will most likely be making my choice in the next few weeks, and will be posting pics as soon as it is in hand.

Thanks to everyone for your knowledge and assistance. As a "newbie" I hope that I can learn a lot from all of you in the comming months.

[RPB]

I always wanted a Glock when I was younger, but it seems that I grew out of that as I am looking to purchase. Nothing against them, but I am looking for something that is a little "flashy" as my wife would say.

Get a "Flashy Glock" <chuckling>
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[budroux2w]

Great info here from everyone. Just make sure that you get a matching CHL badge to go with it.