I will actually combine two post here. The famed answer between the .45 and why not a .380 or 9mm is simply put from a legend in arms that now runs thunder ranch in TX. Simply stated and is now a poster on the wall at the training facilty. "I would rather the weapon that I only have to fire once" and his other famed answer to a reporter when asked the question "why do you carry a .45", again simply put "becuse they dont make a .46". I have seen the good and bad side of firearms when I was a medic. People hoped up on crack and coke coming at a officer or trying to restrain someone and it is bang bang bang bang. Then I have seen the other side of it. one .45 round and one gaping hole. I choose a .45 I went with a Springfield armory mini tactical. Just a short slide .45 3.5" barrel and slide. Would love to have it comp'ed but whats the use. still uses standard mags so that is nice...