I'm looking at adding a "modern" .45 ACP to my arsenal.
My favorite handgun of all time is my CZ P-01. It is pretty much perfect, and I don't shoot anything better. It is also utterly bulletproof reliable.
So, what better .45 ACP than the P-01's big brother? Unfortunately, 97 really isn't, because to date the 97 doesn't seem to do alloy frame.
So, I'm looking at the whole field of .45's against the following spec...
- DA/SA Decocker, DAO or "Light DAO"
First shot trigger pull >6 lbs & subjectively "DAish" (e.g. stock Glock trigger is too light, "NY-1" OK)
Manual safety OK as long as I can safely ignore it (e.g. a Beretta 92 FS)
Weight (empty) not to exceed 39 oz (GI M1911)
Barrel length 4.25-5" (Commander to M1911)
Magazine capacity at least 10 rounds
Tritium night sights (can be aftermarket but factory preferred)
The purpose of the weapon is self-defense in contexts other than concealed carry, so suitablity for concealment or competition is not a factor. However, I'm not looking for a "crew-served handgun" (e.g. HK MK23). I had occasion to wear a GI M1911A1 on my hip during a loooong day working for my Uncle Sam, and it gets heavier than you think after the first 8 hours
So, what do folks that have experience with the 97BD think about it vs the likes of...
Beretta PX4 Storm .45ACP SD
FNP-45
Glock 21
HK45
Ruger P345
SIG P220 Combat
SIG P250 Fullsize
S&W M&P
Springfield Armory XD 45 ACP
Taurus PT 24/7 OSS