How to Compare .45 Auto Target Pistols

Most bullseye target pistol matches involve both a rimfire and centerfire portion. The .45 auto is a common choice for the centerfire portion of a target pistol match. When shooting a target match, accuracy is of prime concern. The look, size and extra features of the pistol are of secondary concern, if you choose to consider them at all. Consider accuracy above all else when you compare .45 auto target pistols.

Instructions

    • 1

      Decide what styles of pistol you are interested in. A .45 auto comes in many different styles, some of which are inherently more accurate than others. A compact Glock will not perform as accurately as a full-frame Colt 1911. The model 1911 is a very common choice for a .45 auto target pistol.

    • 2

      Read statistics on how different stock pistols perform. The more accurate a .45 auto is from the manufacturer, the less work it will take to make it accurate enough to be used competitively as a target pistol. Firearms publications regularly review stock pistols, and are a good starting point for comparing stock handguns.

    • 3

      Research the accuracy of different .45 auto pistols that have been worked on by a qualified pistolsmith. A stock .45 auto will never be accurate enough to shoot competitively. According to the Encyclopedia of Bullseye Pistol, "What is required, then, is an accurized or a custom-built model." Talk to target shooters who own custom-built .45 automatics to learn how much extra accuracy pistolsmithing can add to a gun.

    • 4

      Borrow .45 auto target pistols from other target shooters. Only by actually firing the pistols can you determine how comfortable they feel. If you don't know anyone that you can borrow a particular type of pistol from, some gun stores will let you fire a few rounds through a gun if you are looking to purchase a pistol.

    • 5

      Evaluate the different types of pistols and select the one that meets your needs. By comparing the accuracy of different models and types of pistols you can make an informed decision when you are ready to purchase one.