Should I get a CW45 or XDS-45?

[tycoonbob]

Hi everyone, new here.

I'm looking to purchase my second pistol in the near future. Currently, I have a GSG 1911-22, which I love shooting. Fun, but not much for being a conceal/self defense gun.

I can pick up a CW45 for $350 locally, but I have never shot the gun before. I can get the XDS-45 for about $475. Yes, the XDS-45 comes with 2 mags, a case, holster, second backstrap, and mag holster. Those accessories could easily add up to the $125 price difference.

I'm left handed, which is why I like the XDS. Mag release is on both sides, which I find useful, but I have a suspicion that the CW45 can be swapped to the otherside, like you can do with a Glock of M&P Shield. Can anyone confirm this?

I basically want something that I can open carry, and conceal carry (once I get my permit -- in KY) that I feel confident in, if I need to rely on it. I like the looks of the CW45 because it's simple. I've read reviews and videos of people with feed issues, but it seems that those issues go away after the break-in period, yes? The price is VERY appealing on the CW45 and I could pick it up this weekend, whereas the XDS is still affordable but would be another 2 weeks from now.

Thanks!

[Bawanna]

The mag release is not reversible as far as I know, I never considered a lefty dealing with that mag release being I ain't one.

That is a viable argument in favor of the XDS. My son has one and it shoots well and he loves it. I shot it some and I was ok with it but it just wasn't made for me grip wise for some reason. I could live with it.

To me it wouldn't be a deal breaker on the CW but again I can't really say since I'm not a lefty.

Maybe other lefty's here can give us some better feed back.

Occasionally the CW's take the breakin to run but quite often and perhaps even more often than not they run out of the box.

Many factors involved, shooter, ammo, etc. Either would do well to fulfill your needs.

[addictedhealer]

Don't forget the cm45 is coming out this year... 5+1. I'm not a 45 guy just because the size a gun it takes to get the capacity I'm looking for. I have a cw9 and love it as a daily carry. Not my goto gun for a gun fight, but neither is any handgun.

Another thing, most those goodies that comes with handguns are mostly junk or you will never use. Xd fobus holsters suck and the case will be collecting dust.

[dkmatthews]

I vote for the Kahr, much like the guys at F150forum.com would encourage you to choose the Ford over the Chevy.

[smokersteve]

They are both good guns. I would take the xds personally.
Another one to consider is the Glock 36. I was out with mine today and it is a joy to shoot. Here's a link to it
http://us.glock.com/products/model/g36

[tycoonbob]

Sure, I get that their would be some bias here oward the Kahr, and that's expected.

The mag release being on the left and not changeable is not a deal breaker. I would hope that I could take care of whatever it is I need to take care of without having to release the mag in the middle of a heated exchange, ya know? Plus, my 1911-22 is not reversible and I've learned to maneuver my index finger to release the mag just fine.

I have not shot the CW45, and unlikely that I will get to before buying one. I've also not shot a .45ACP in several years, but I'm a bigger guy (6'2", 250lbs) and handle a XDm 40 just fine. Should I also consider the CW40?

In regards to the CM45, I am aware it's coming out. I figured it would not be in the same $350 as the CW, and I'm not sure if I would want to sacrifice the extra length gained with the CW. If anything, I would end up with both the CW45 and CM45 and use the CM45 as a pocket carry in the summer, and the CW45 as open carry or conceal in the winter. Or maybe even a CM380 or CM9 as a pocket carry, but I don't want to have to stock 3 different calibers of ammo. I'd like to stock .22LR and .45ACP (or .40S&W), primarily and maybe some .38 Special if I ever get a S&W 686. ;)


They are both good guns. I would take the xds personally.
Another one to consider is the Glock 36. I was out with mine today and it is a joy to shoot. Here's a link to it
http://us.glock.com/products/model/g36

I don't know why, but I don't really want a Glock. I think I have this subconscious thing about me where I don't like having what is "mainstream". I like to have what is different, and makes people wonder why I went with what I did.

[Armybrat]

Ain't nuthin' wrong with either pistol, but you are asking on the Kahr forum and I have a CW45, so..... :D

[dkmatthews]

They are both good guns. I would take the xds personally.
Another one to consider is the Glock 36. I was out with mine today and it is a joy to shoot. Here's a link to it
http://us.glock.com/products/model/g36

Choosing the Glock 30S (http://us.glock.com/products/model/g30s) means only 4.5mm more in width but you move up from a six round magazine to 10.

[O'Dell]

I'll start by saying a CW45 is my daily carry nearly all the time when I can cover a holster. This is over several much more expensive 45 pistols although none of those is as light as the CW. I have had two CW45's, one each a CW 40 and CW9. I have never had any type of failure with any of them from the first shot.

As to the XD the only one I ever had was a Compact 45 several years ago. I never cared for it and when it was stolen, I never bothered to replace it.

[smokersteve]

Tycoonbob, I can relate to not wanting a Glock. I was anti-glock til one day my LGS had a glock promos day. Spur of the moment I bought the 36. Real nice gun.
Since then I bought a CW380. I really like it and it shoots great. It just doesn't seem to be built as well as the Glock...plastic rails, guide rod springs, and of course the takedown on the Glock can't be beat.

[Bawanna]

I would seriously stick with the CW 45 over the CW40.

I like 40 but only in a full size gun.

[O'Dell]

It just doesn't seem to be built as well as the Glock...plastic rails, guide rod springs, and of course the takedown on the Glock can't be beat.

I don't agree. Quite the contrary, in fact. By the way, the rails in the Kahrs are steel.

[tycoonbob]

Choosing the Glock 30S (http://us.glock.com/products/model/g30s) means only 4.5mm more in width but you move up from a six round magazine to 10.

One of the most appealing things to me when looking at these, is the slimness. Honestly, if I can't do what I need to do with 6 rounds, I don't think 10 is going to help much.

Based on my past few days of research, I am leaning toward the CW45 but haven't had the opportunity to talk to anyone who actually uses Kahr guns.

[smokersteve]

I don't agree. Quite the contrary, in fact. By the way, the rails in the Kahrs are steel.

The rails on the frame of the cw's are plastic, not steel.

http://i1159.photobucket.com/albums/p622/stevehyle/20140115_142244.jpg (http://s1159.photobucket.com/user/stevehyle/media/20140115_142244.jpg.html)

[dkmatthews]

One of the most appealing things to me when looking at these, is the slimness. Honestly, if I can't do what I need to do with 6 rounds, I don't think 10 is going to help much.

Based on my past few days of research, I am leaning toward the CW45 but haven't had the opportunity to talk to anyone who actually uses Kahr guns.

Bob, I wasn't advocating for the Glock over the Kahr. I was pointing out the advantage of the model 30S over the model 36.

I'm a fan of both Kahr and Glock.

In the Kahr family, I especially like the TP45.


Sent from my SGH-T999L using Tapatalk

[O'Dell]

The rails on the frame of the cw's are plastic, not steel.

http://i1159.photobucket.com/albums/p622/stevehyle/20140115_142244.jpg (http://s1159.photobucket.com/user/stevehyle/media/20140115_142244.jpg.html)

You are looking at the guides for positioning the slide. The rails are part of a steel cage that wraps under the slide inside the polymer frame.

[smokersteve]

Here is what happens to the "guides" - which are part of the rails, over time.

http://i1159.photobucket.com/albums/p622/stevehyle/Mobile%20Uploads/Screenshot_2014-01-15-14-46-50.png (http://s1159.photobucket.com/user/stevehyle/media/Mobile%20Uploads/Screenshot_2014-01-15-14-46-50.png.html)

[O'Dell]

Here is what happens to the "guides" - which are part of the rails, over time.

http://i1159.photobucket.com/albums/p622/stevehyle/Mobile%20Uploads/Screenshot_2014-01-15-14-46-50.png (http://s1159.photobucket.com/user/stevehyle/media/Mobile%20Uploads/Screenshot_2014-01-15-14-46-50.png.html)

The guides are not part of the rails. As I said, the guides are just for positioning the slide on the frame when you reassemble it. That's never happened to any of my seven Kahrs BTW, but it doesn't matter anyway. The pistol will still function normally.

[getsome]

Welcome to Kahrtalk tycoonbob, you have found the right place to answer your questions....Now choosing a gun is a very personal decision and you should hold, dry fire and if possible rent and shoot both but if thats not possible then I'll make it simple, go with the CW45 and don't look back....

Both are great high quality guns and you wont go wrong with either one but since you aren't turned off by the lefty deal I think the Kahr would suit you well, in fact being a lefty is better because you wont likely hit the mag release button when he gun recoils like some right handers do....You are correct that if you haven't solved a problem with 6 rounds then you should have brought along some armed friends...The CW45 will disappear in a nice belt holster or IWB rig and you will forget you are carrying it in no time....If you belt carry the CW line of pistols can't be beat for quality, concealability and user friendly design....

The XD's had a recall to correct some pistols that would fire while on safe so if you do decide to go with the XD be sure it's not one of the defective ones or has already been back for correction or be prepared to wait 30 days or more to get it back from the factory, just something to keep in mind...

As for whether a CW40 would be better than a CW45 I would say no....I have a PM40 and really like the gun as I pocket carry and it's been 100% reliable but if I had to do it over again I wouild have gone with a PM9 or maybe a PM45....The .40 S&W caliber is fine in a bigger gun like my M&P but in a sub compact gun the .40 really isn't very much fun at all to shoot....Now some brave souls here will say they can shoot their little .40 all day without a problem all I know is that after 25 rounds or so through my PM40 I'm ready to put it down and shoot something easier on my old hand....

Good luck in your decision and no matter which one you choose be sure to come back here and let us know....This is a great forum and we all like to cut up and have a good time and we all love to talk about guns and shooting....If you decide on the Kahr really be sure to read all the great info in the new member section and there are lots of good folks, (even you Jocko) who will be glad to help you out with any questions or problems you may have....Good luck with your new pistol which ever one you choose....

[JERRY]

get the Kahr.

[gb6491]

The rails on the frame of the cw's are plastic, not steel.

http://i1159.photobucket.com/albums/p622/stevehyle/20140115_142244.jpg (http://s1159.photobucket.com/user/stevehyle/media/20140115_142244.jpg.html)


You are looking at the guides for positioning the slide. The rails are part of a steel cage that wraps under the slide inside the polymer frame.


Here is what happens to the "guides" - which are part of the rails, over time.

http://i1159.photobucket.com/albums/p622/stevehyle/Mobile%20Uploads/Screenshot_2014-01-15-14-46-50.png (http://s1159.photobucket.com/user/stevehyle/media/Mobile%20Uploads/Screenshot_2014-01-15-14-46-50.png.html)

The guides are not part of the rails. As I said, the guides are just for positioning the slide on the frame when you reassemble it. That's never happened to any of my seven Kahrs BTW, but it doesn't matter anyway. The pistol will still function normally.
O'Dell is correct on all accounts.
Kahr frames have steel rails imbedded in the frame that the slide rides on.
http://i52.tinypic.com/16i7g4p.jpg
http://i51.tinypic.com/wmo2og.jpg
Following photo was posted by Ken6PPC (http://ohioccwforums.org/memberlist.php?mode=viewprofile&u=400&sid=a1ed48adc9ba00a28bc95b307c790c55) on another forum:
http://photos.imageevent.com/ken6ppc/misc/websize/P1010957.JPG

The plastic "rails" serve as guides for installing the slide. These guides will generally wear some from when they are factory fresh, but they reach a point where the wear from the slide operating will cease. Any damage beyond that point is probably from sloppy technique when removing the slide during dis-assembly. That's not to say they can't fail, but it's true that you could cut them off and the gun would function fine without them (there's a post here where a member did that to one of the front pieces (http://www.kahrtalk.com/showthread.php?t=7835)).

For the OP;
I have both an XD-S in .45ACP and a Kahr CW45.
http://i45.tinypic.com/2gv1z5i.jpg
Each is reliable and accurate.
First ten round I put through the XD-S at ten yards (standing):
http://i47.tinypic.com/35ivxoj.jpg
Here's three magazines worth of Blazer 230 gr. ball from my CW45 (two mags at 10 yards and one at 25: all two handed standing):
http://i50.tinypic.com/333kdnm.jpg
I think you would be well served by either.

Regards,
Greg

FWIW: if I could only keep one of the two, it would be the CW45. I like that has 6 in a non-extended mag (vice 5 in the XD-S). I also prefer it's trigger and ergonomics (that's not to say the XD-S is a slouch in either department, but it's trigger did require some work post recall).

[smokersteve]

Sorry, I was wrong in calling the "guide" the rails. My bad.
I still would go with a Glock over Kahr after handling, dismantling, and shooting both.

[MarkB1]

Both guns are quality, accurate guns. Either would be a good choice.

I have the XD-S. I like that it has a grip safety, trigger safety and striker block safety. I also have small hands that fit the XD-S. I have problems with a double stack gun.

I also have a P380 that is also very good.

One of the major differences is the trigger. The Kahr has a long, very smooth trigger pull while the XD-S is much shorter. You should try both guns to see which style of trigger you prefer. Some hate the Kahr trigger and many more love it.

If you do get a XD-S make sure you have a post-recall gun. The repaired XD-S can be identified by a small roll pin in the side of the grip safety.

You can see it here: http://springfieldrecall.com/TechnicalBackground.asp

FYI - The reason for the recall was one owner's gun went full auto with a full mag when he pulled the trigger - Not good! No one was hurt, thank God.

[gb6491]

Sorry, I was wrong in calling the "guide" the rails. My bad.
I still would go with a Glock over Kahr after handling, dismantling, and shooting both.
I like Glocks myself, just not their .45s. I owned a 30SF when they first came out; it had the failure to return to battery issue many were having then, but I got that fixed. I just couldn't find any love for the aircraft carrier size slide on it and the 21. The one 36 I had experience with was not reliable (failures to feed), so I ended up with the CW45 (to be fair, I didn't own that 36, but I now think the issue could have been resolved). I do like the feel of the new, thinner slide G30S and G41 (local shop has one for display purposes only), but I hate the finish Glock is using on their slides now (everyone I have looked at shows wear from just being in the box).

My newish G19 had some erratic ejection, but an old machined extractor I had on hand fixed that. If I could only have one 9mm it would be the one (though the CZ75 might give it a run). The only pistol I own chambered in .40S&W is a G27
Regards,
Greg

[phil413tx]

I personally have to vote for the XDs. I love Kahr in 9mm and .380 but for some reason I have had trouble with the .45s. My XDS has been great. I love the trigger. Post recall, the trigger was a little different but I really like it.

[yqtszhj]

I've had both. I kept my Kahr and sold my XDs-45. You can't beat the trigger on the CW45. It has a much nicer trigger in my opinion. I will never sell my Kahr CW45 or CM9. The CW45 works with 7 round Act-Mag magazines also flawlessly for me.

[h2ohhh]

I love my CW-45. Manageable recoil, easy to conceal and a very comfortable 5 finger grip plus after the break in period it's as smooth as 12 year old whiskey. The .40 on the other hand is snappy to me.

Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk

[JERRY]

my PM45 has a few issues in the beginning. nothing more than a bit more ammo to smooth it out but I was frustrated as hell after ponying up all that dough. however, after the XDs trigger safety issue id take another Kahr 45 before I tried a XDs.


my PM45 just needed more breaking in than usual, the XDs had a design flaw....

[tycoonbob]

Well everyone, I'm sitting in the parking lot of KY Gun Co...with my newly purchased CW45! $350 plus tax, and I couldn't be happier. Hopefully I will still be as happy once I get to shoot it!

[smokersteve]

Sweet. Great price also

[JERRY]

Well everyone, I'm sitting in the parking lot of KY Gun Co...with my newly purchased CW45! $350 plus tax, and I couldn't be happier. Hopefully I will still be as happy once I get to shoot it!



congrats.


patience is needed during the first 200 rounds usually. you might get lucky and have a jewel right away. mine was a lump-o-coal until about 500 rounds.

[Armybrat]

Mine has been great from the get-go.

Hope yours is too.

[kwh]

I have the CW45. The grip suits me better than the XD.

[schmitty]

Congratulations!

Had my CW45 since March and couldn't be happier! I have about 600 rounds through it now and only had 2 hiccups. I had 1 stovepipe in the first 100 rounds, and 1 failure to go into battery after around 250 rounds without cleaning the gun well. And that just required a tap on the back of the slide. Shoots like a dream!

[yqtszhj]

Well everyone, I'm sitting in the parking lot of KY Gun Co...with my newly purchased CW45! $350 plus tax, and I couldn't be happier. Hopefully I will still be as happy once I get to shoot it!

That's a good price too. Congratulations.:amflag:

[muggsy]

The rails on the frame of the cw's are plastic, not steel.

http://i1159.photobucket.com/albums/p622/stevehyle/20140115_142244.jpg (http://s1159.photobucket.com/user/stevehyle/media/20140115_142244.jpg.html)

Steve you're letting your ignorance show. There are plastic rails to aid in assembling the gun, but there are also steel rails both front and rear the the slide run on. I strongly suggest that you read your owners manual which it is obvious you failed to do. Those steel rails require lubrication.

[b4uqzme]

:o I'd get the Chevy. Oops, wrong forum.

Congrats Bob. Good choice and welcome!!!

[pbagley]

Congrats and good choice. I bought a CW45 a couple of weeks ago myself. My trigger is still breaking in. Functioning has been 100% with three boxes of TulAmmo 230gr RN's. Accuracy has been quite good.
http://i57.servimg.com/u/f57/13/62/95/74/20140110.jpg (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=618&u=13629574)

Sorry for the phuzy photo. It was late and I was losing my light. This is a 50 foot target shot at 25 yards.

The CW45 was also 100% reliable with 10 rounds of 200gr jacketed SWC's over 7.7gr of PowerPistol, and very accurate at 25 yards.
http://i57.servimg.com/u/f57/13/62/95/74/20140111.jpg (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=619&u=13629574)

My target load has been another story. 200gr H&G cast SWC over 5gr of WW231 is too light a load for the recoil spring. I've had FTE's and rechambers. With under 200 rounds down range cast bullets left lead in the barrel too - same load is fine in 2 other 45's. I suspect a rough bore.
http://i57.servimg.com/u/f57/13/62/95/74/20140112.jpg (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=620&u=13629574)
The H&G's are store bought, I cast a 200 gr Lyman that has a shorter nose. Loaded to the same OAL I found the Kahr has a rather short throat with the Lyman's. I'm looking for more 200gr jacketed SWC's.

Back to that trigger. Initially it was quite inconsistent, sometimes breaking at the very rear of the travel. Slowly it is becoming more consistent. In contrast I have a CM9 that I bought a year ago who's trigger was good from day 1, but it was a store display model. My CW45 was fresh out of the box and did not have the benefit of being dry fired by many potential buyers before I came along.

The bottom line is that the CW45 is far more accurate than the CM9, and has been far more reliable with factory loads. I like the CM9, but I like the CW45 more.

I hope this helps. Please let us know how you like the gun once you've had it to the range a time or two.

[tycoonbob]

Thanks everyone!

I still have not had the chance to shoot my CW45, but I have spent plenty of time breaking it down and getting familiar with it. I have dry fired it several times, and I think I will like the trigger which was one of my main concerns. I've also given it a good cleaning.

I hope to put 50 rounds or so through it this coming Sunday!

I do have another question, purely just thoughts though. Does anyone own a CW45 and a CM45? Is there any real benefit from owning both? The CM45 is smaller and probably easier to conceal, but would it be a waste to get both (not anytime soon, but several months from now)?

Another question. So I currently only have 2 handguns; this CW45 and a GSG 1911-22. I love my 22 as it's fun to shoot, and I have a M&P 15-22 on my radar as well. For handguns, I don't want to stock ammo for all calibers, so I'm trying to decide what third caliber I should go for and I'm thinking either 9mm or .380ACP. My .45 will be for CC primarily, while my 22s will be for fun. I do suspect in the future I will get a larger .45 for open carry, but I want to get the lady something later this year for her birthday, and trying to decide between a 9mm and a .380. If I love my CW45, a CW380 or CM9 might be in her future, haha.
So for stocking handgun ammo, I would have .22LR, (9mm or .380ACP), and .45ACP/Auto. Maybe .38 Special if I ever dish out the money for a S&W 686 that I've had my eye on.

Sorry for the rambling, and thanks!

[pbagley]

What follows is just one opinion, and is by no means advice for your situation. I do not know you well enough to provide such advice. Standard disclaimers apply.

Now that is out of the way here's what I did. I wanted a CW45 a year ago, but was buying for IWB carry. The CM9 seemed like a more versatile choice at the time. This is just a little narrower than the PM45 you are considering, and a few $ cheaper. As a bullseye shooter I found the little 9mm to be difficult to group well at 25 yards. I sold a 9mm in the mid '90s with the same complaint. A few months later I decided a .380 needed to be added and bought a 738TCP (380). In practice the 738 gets the most use using a wallet carry. Or to my wife: "That's not my wallet, Dear. Other side." IWB with the CM9 is next most popular. A J frame Smith is my least popular option, but for front pocket carry I find the semi-autos to be monkey traps while the longer revolver comes out smoothly without catching. I think the CW45 will come in around the same ranking as the CM9 once it is fully broken in tested with defensive ammo. I carries about the same, except is not quite as deep into the waistband and is easier to draw. It really does not print any worse for the most part. And I like it better, which plays a part in my decision process. I have not carried it yet, so things may change once I have some experience. And for what it's worth, I have found defensive ammo I've tried to be most accurate and most reliable in all calibers - as it should be at over $1 a shot.

I hope that helps.

[tycoonbob]

Finally shot my CW45 today, and boy do I like it. I bought a box of 50 Blazer 230g FMJ, and shot 44 of them before I had a problem (no FTE or FTF).
The mag ran out and the slide stayed open, so I loaded the mag back up with 6 shots, with the first 2 being Tula 230g FMJ (friend had 2 left so I thought I'd try something different). Inserted the mag, released the slide, but the slide didn't close all the way. Maybe 1/4 inch, and I couldn't get it to close all the way. Tried pulling the trigger but nothing happened, and I can't pull the slide back to release it. Basically, a round is stuck in the chamber and I can't do anything with it.
Other than that, love the gun. I'm taking it to KY Gun Co tomorrow to let them take a look, and hopefully let them fix it. Very happy with the Blazer ammo I shot, and I will be buying more of it ($19.99/box at another local shop).

Now I need recommendations for a OWB holster for a lefty, and best place to buy another mag or two.

[CJB]

Buy AMERICAN, buy KAHR.

The Springfield is made in some eastern block slave labor factory

[tycoonbob]

Buy AMERICAN, buy KAHR.

The Springfield is made in some eastern block slave labor factory

The Kahr is what I ended up buying. ;)

[pbagley]

I had a similar problem with some of my reloads. These were long proven loads used in both my older .45's, and they typically produce pretty decent accuracy. In the Kahr CW45 the slide doesn't close all the way. It seems that the Kahr has a shorter throat than the other two, so this particular bullet needs to be loaded to a shorter OAL to fully chamber.

I have shot 150 rounds of TulAmmo 230gr 45ACP in my CW45 so far with no issues and pretty decent accuracy. If the one that got stuck was a factory load, not a reload, then perhaps some dirt got in with the top round. Good luck, and I hope they treat you right at the gun shop.


Finally shot my CW45 today, and boy do I like it. I bought a box of 50 Blazer 230g FMJ, and shot 44 of them before I had a problem (no FTE or FTF).
The mag ran out and the slide stayed open, so I loaded the mag back up with 6 shots, with the first 2 being Tula 230g FMJ (friend had 2 left so I thought I'd try something different). Inserted the mag, released the slide, but the slide didn't close all the way. Maybe 1/4 inch, and I couldn't get it to close all the way. Tried pulling the trigger but nothing happened, and I can't pull the slide back to release it. Basically, a round is stuck in the chamber and I can't do anything with it.
Other than that, love the gun. I'm taking it to KY Gun Co tomorrow to let them take a look, and hopefully let them fix it. Very happy with the Blazer ammo I shot, and I will be buying more of it ($19.99/box at another local shop).

Now I need recommendations for a OWB holster for a lefty, and best place to buy another mag or two.

[tycoonbob]

I had a similar problem with some of my reloads. These were long proven loads used in both my older .45's, and they typically produce pretty decent accuracy. In the Kahr CW45 the slide doesn't close all the way. It seems that the Kahr has a shorter throat than the other two, so this particular bullet needs to be loaded to a shorter OAL to fully chamber.

I have shot 150 rounds of TulAmmo 230gr 45ACP in my CW45 so far with no issues and pretty decent accuracy. If the one that got stuck was a factory load, not a reload, then perhaps some dirt got in with the top round. Good luck, and I hope they treat you right at the gun shop.

It was a factory load, and I'm also guessing the round was dirty or something (I might have dropped it on the ground for all I know, and it was muddy out). Ky Gun Co took care of me, unjammed the round for free and advised me not to use Tula anymore because of some coating they put on the rounds? I'm not sure what they were talking about, but I'm quite happy with the Blazer ammo so I have no problem sticking with that through the break-in period.

[warbird1]

I have never owned a Block and probably never will. I bought my CW40 (came with one mag) about a year ago. Outstanding little gun. Since then I have added 3 more mags and a Mitch Rosen owb holster. It's in my EDC rotation. I prefer the Corbon Pow'RBall as a carry round. I have also owned the XDS and it is a fine firearm as well. Won't go wrong with either one.

[yqtszhj]

I have shot about 800 rounds of Tula .45 through another gun. bought a bunch one time really cheap. If i had it to do all over again I'd buy brass ammo. The black coating on the Tula cases kept choking up the firing pin channel on my 1911.

[pbagley]

I have shot about 800 rounds of Tula .45 through another gun. bought a bunch one time really cheap. If i had it to do all over again I'd buy brass ammo. The black coating on the Tula cases kept choking up the firing pin channel on my 1911.

My TulAmmo was brass and boxer primed. I did not consider that the OP may be using steel case ammo. My mistake. I've never used anything but brass ammo, mainly because I want to reload it later.

edit: TulAmmo Brass Max.

[tycoonbob]

Put ~100 rounds through my CW45, the same steel cased Blazer ammo, and not a single problem. Even with rapid fire, it worked like a champ! I have ~150 rounds through it now, and the only hiccup was when I tried using that steel cased Tula.

So far, very pleased! Just need to find me a few more mags, and a lefty OWB holster. Any recommendations?

[rjt123]

Put ~100 rounds through my CW45, the same steel cased Blazer ammo, and not a single problem. Even with rapid fire, it worked like a champ!


Those silver looking rounds from Blazer that aren't the brass (the all black box) are aluminum cased...not steel. The aluminum is much softer than steel and thus more gentle on the extractor and ejector.

As far as I know, Blazer/CCI/Lawman doesn't make any steel cased ammo.

Blazer's aluminum-cased rounds are my favorite range ammo. Cheap (well, cheaper than most) , always goes bang, not excessively dirty, and have at least a decent amount of power. It's what I buy if it is available.

[tycoonbob]

Those silver looking rounds from Blazer that aren't the brass (the all black box) are aluminum cased...not steel. The aluminum is much softer than steel and thus more gentle on the extractor and ejector.

As far as I know, Blazer/CCI/Lawman doesn't make any steel cased ammo.

Blazer's aluminum-cased rounds are my favorite range ammo. Cheap (well, cheaper than most) , always goes bang, not excessively dirty, and have at least a decent amount of power. It's what I buy if it is available.

Ah, thanks for the clarification. I'm pretty happy with those rounds, and I get them for $18.99 per box at one of my LGS. Pretty good price based on what I see online.

[O'Dell]

Those silver looking rounds from Blazer that aren't the brass (the all black box) are aluminum cased...not steel. The aluminum is much softer than steel and thus more gentle on the extractor and ejector.

As far as I know, Blazer/CCI/Lawman doesn't make any steel cased ammo.

Blazer's aluminum-cased rounds are my favorite range ammo. Cheap (well, cheaper than most) , always goes bang, not excessively dirty, and have at least a decent amount of power. It's what I buy if it is available.

They make Blazer Brass in 380, 9mm, 38 Special, 40 S&W, 45 ACP, and 357 Magnum. I don't use aluminum or steel, but the Blazer Brass is pretty good ammo.

[hardluk1]

I have shot lots of aluminum blaser in all the pistol I have and never had an issue with them. Probably have a few hundred in the ammo locker now in 9mm and 45acp.

[DanTana]

A friend of mine at work was asking me about the CW45. He asked me if they were reliable, I don't own one but I told him I hadn't heard of any real issues with them. He is considering it or a Glock 30. He likes the extra capacity of the 30. I told him all you have to do is hit them once with a .45.

[AIRret]

Hey Tycoonbob, I shoot left handed these days and I understand what you are saying about the magazine release being on the wrong side.
I choose to deal with that issue as follows. Since I had several handguns before becoming a lefty and didn't want to sell them, I chose to use my trigger finger to hit the mag. release. It really doesn't slow me down (once I got used to it) because I have been told to not drop one mag. until you have your hand on your spare mag. anyway.

To me one of the most important things in gun handling is being consistent. Therefore, even with the guns I own (I have a XDs 45) that have ambi safeties I still use my trigger finger…..be consistent…..it gives you a better chance in a crisis.
Good Luck

[hardluk1]

dantana One shot?? if you say so , better make it a center forhead or upper center of chest and hit the spine. 45 even with a great HP ammo are not a gar-o-teee'd one shot stopper any more than a 9mm. If this person can hide a glock well and he likes it buy it. If he wants a kahr that's his choice. Last practice double and triple taps.


I tend to carry a Kahr tp series more now. The TP 45 when compaired to the glock 30 and about a 1/4" taller about a 1/4" shorter in front to back length, .24 thinner in width along with a few oz lighter and but its hard to pass up a 3 more round double stack that can handle a model 21 mag as backup if the loaded weight is not an issue.

[tony k]

Wow...some familiar names from THR here, Including hardluk1 who suggested I check out this site (good idea by the way)

tycoonbob, I'm a lefty as well and I put my first 200 rounds through my new CW45 last friday. how's the mag release working out for you? Like AIRret i use my trigger finger to release the mag. After years of doing it that way on a 1911 it's muscle memory now. I don't see a need to relearn to use my thumb.

also like you, I considered the XDs. In the end it was a toss up for me between the CW45 and the XDs. When I have the option, I try to by USA made stuff. That's why I have the CW45.

Also, others mentioned short throats in the CW45. The first 100 rounds I put through my CW45 were reloads loaded to an OAL of 1.265 with 230gr LRN. It was constant fail to feed and fail to go in to battery. Next 100 rounds were loaded to OAL of 1.260 with 230gr plated LRN. Only one fail to feed in 100 rounds. The short throat might have been the cause of my fail to go in to battery, and my admittedly limited experience suggests that my Kahr likes shorter lengths than say a 1911.

Like I mentioned, my first session with my CW45 was less than perfect, but considering all the great tips and tricks I've gotten from this forum and The High Road, I'd say we both made a good choice in going with the Kahr.

[tycoonbob]

Wow...some familiar names from THR here, Including hardluk1 who suggested I check out this site (good idea by the way)

tycoonbob, I'm a lefty as well and I put my first 200 rounds through my new CW45 last friday. how's the mag release working out for you? Like AIRret i use my trigger finger to release the mag. After years of doing it that way on a 1911 it's muscle memory now. I don't see a need to relearn to use my thumb.

also like you, I considered the XDs. In the end it was a toss up for me between the CW45 and the XDs. When I have the option, I try to by USA made stuff. That's why I have the CW45.

Also, others mentioned short throats in the CW45. The first 100 rounds I put through my CW45 were reloads loaded to an OAL of 1.265 with 230gr LRN. It was constant fail to feed and fail to go in to battery. Next 100 rounds were loaded to OAL of 1.260 with 230gr plated LRN. Only one fail to feed in 100 rounds. The short throat might have been the cause of my fail to go in to battery, and my admittedly limited experience suggests that my Kahr likes shorter lengths than say a 1911.

Like I mentioned, my first session with my CW45 was less than perfect, but considering all the great tips and tricks I've gotten from this forum and The High Road, I'd say we both made a good choice in going with the Kahr.

Overall, I'm very happy with my CW45. I've got 206 rounds through it, over two trips. Mostly Blazer Aluminum, but also Winchester and American Eagle Brass. I've had one FTE, but that was when I let my lady friend shoot, and she went limp wrist (first time shooting a .45). I've also only had one jam, and that was with the Tula Aluminum as previously mentioned. After looking at the round once it was removed, it was well scratched up. For all I know, it could have been like that before loading, or maybe it was dirty, etc. Other than those two incidents, it's been very good to me.

I also picked up a generic nylon holster which works well when I'm out shooting, but I am having trouble finding a spare mag or two, at an affordable price $25-30 shipped). I will likely put another 100 rounds through her this weekend.

[Bang_button]

Choosing the Glock 30S (http://us.glock.com/products/model/g30s) means only 4.5mm more in width but you move up from a six round magazine to 10.


And don't forget you can run full size Glock 21 mags too, which would come to 13+1. They are a definite option if you plan to carry extra mags.

[W5JCK]

tycoonbob, another lefty here. Seems like there are a bunch of us southpaws here in this thread! I've always just adapted to the mag releases being on the left side. I've never changed one to the right side on the handguns that allow a change. I've never found it to be an issue.