Looking for a 45ACP 3" barrel

[heckler22150]

I've narrowed it down to a Colt Defender or Kimber Ultra Carry II to spend between 800-1,000.

Any suggestions?

[DefensiveCarry.com]

[EdC]

I've got a Kimber Ultra Raptor, similar to the Ultra Carry. Had some issues during break in, had to get a new slide stop, but other than that, no problems, shoots nice, easy to carry.

[phanderson]

I am one of those that believes that a 1911 style 45acp pistol of less than a 4 inch barrel length is not very reliable. The extra inch most likely will not make that much difference for concealability. Reliability however is most important for me, especially in either a duty or carry gun. I have had reliability issues with both Kimbers and Colts. I voted for something else and this is it. It is over the price range you are talking about though.

This is my carry gun. A Les Baer Stinger. 4 1/2" barrel on an officer frame. Completely reliable.

[f8lranger4x4]

glock 36

[TGC]

My EDC is a Kimber Ultra Carry...plenty of rounds through it, never a problem. Very accurate, very reliable, very easy to conceal. I highly recommend one.

[eldorado]

Go with the Ultra you can't go wrong:)
I have the Ultra with Crimson Trace, remember there is a break-in period with the kimbers

I had 1 problem but the folks on this board set me on the right track..
It was my grip, the kimber has a kick and I was hitting the slide lock, and locking the slid back with rounds still in the magazine.

I'm happy to write that after 300 rounds no problems and It eats everything I have put into it.

Also with the practice of my grip Technique, I have become a better shot as well.

This Kimer is very accurate and the Crimson Trace is on the money

I'm waiting on a custom holster from Tim at TT GunLeather High Quality Leather Gun Holsters
check his site out

Moto

[Warmon]

Sig 220 SAO Carry or HK 45

[Vegas]

I know you said acp, but I would still say that the glock 39 in 45gap could be your best option.

[MR D]

my EDC is a Springfield micro compact in .45 ACP - I was concerned about reliability but have had zero issues

[cphilip]

Colt Defender...

Its what Jesus would carry...

[Gideon]

I believe the defender is more likely to be reliable than the other two based on my research. I just didn't like the two tone, stainless/aluminum look so I went with the Colt New Agent. It's been a good gun and the trench site is much easier to pickup on than the traditional 3 dot system.

I also agree with the other poster that if you can get a 4" you're possibly better off and the les Bauer Stinger would be like the ultimate .45 for any purpose if I could afford one!

[wizardofgore]

I have the 3 inch Kimber Raptor it is just great. No problems yet, very happy with it.

[Rcher]

My UCII has been very reliable after the initial break-in of 500 rds. Scary accurate. I carry everyday without exception.

[Gunnutty]

Colt Defender!

[Sportsterguy]

I am one of those that believes that a 1911 style 45acp pistol of less than a 4 inch barrel length is not very reliable. The extra inch most likely will not make that much difference for concealability. Reliability however is most important for me, especially in either a duty or carry gun. I have had reliability issues with both Kimbers and Colts. I voted for something else and this is it. It is over the price range you are talking about though.

This is my carry gun. A Les Baer Stinger. 4 1/2" barrel on an officer frame. Completely reliable.

+1 and that is from personal experience! Get ya a Springfield Mil-Spec and you'll be a happy and unfrustrated 1911 owner. A 5" is every bit as easy to conceal and will not give you the problems of a chopped 1911. JMO and I'm sticking to it.