The Smith & Wesson Model 645 holds a significant place in the history of semi-automatic handguns. This article delves into the details of this iconic firearm, exploring its design, features, history, and lasting legacy. Whether you're a seasoned firearms enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this comprehensive guide will provide valuable insights into the Smith & Wesson Model 645.
Design and Features of the Smith & Wesson Model 645
The Model 645, introduced in 1981, was a significant departure from Smith & Wesson's traditional revolver-focused lineup. It marked the company's serious entry into the burgeoning market for high-capacity, semi-automatic pistols. Key features include:
- Caliber: Chambered in the powerful .45 ACP cartridge, a round known for its stopping power. This made it a popular choice for law enforcement and personal defense.
- Construction: Built with a steel frame and slide, ensuring durability and reliability. The all-metal construction contributed to its weight, which some users found advantageous for recoil management.
- Capacity: Typically equipped with an 8-round magazine, offering a substantial capacity for its time. This capacity was a considerable advantage compared to many single-stack .45 ACP pistols available at the time.
- Safety Features: Included a grip safety and a thumb safety, providing multiple layers of protection against accidental discharge.
- Sights: Usually featured adjustable sights, allowing for precise zeroing to individual shooter preferences.
The Model 645's Place in History and its Legacy
The Model 645 quickly gained popularity among law enforcement agencies and civilians alike. Its robust design, high capacity, and powerful cartridge made it a compelling option for personal protection and duty use. It successfully competed with other prominent .45 ACP pistols of the era.
However, the Model 645's production run was relatively short. This contributed to its current collector status. The reasons for its discontinuation are complex and often debated, but it’s widely believed that the introduction of polymer-framed pistols and shifting market demands played a significant role. Its successor, the Smith & Wesson Model 6906 (a 9mm pistol) adopted many of the design elements and successfully built upon the legacy of the 645.
Comparing the Smith & Wesson Model 645 to its Contemporaries
Compared to other .45 ACP semi-automatic pistols of its time, the Model 645 held its own. While some contemporaries offered lighter weight or different safety features, the Model 645 distinguished itself with its rugged build, reliable operation, and significant capacity. Its all-steel construction was both a strength (durability, recoil management) and a weakness (weight), depending on the user's needs and preferences.
Finding and Maintaining a Smith & Wesson Model 645 Today
Given its discontinued status, finding a Model 645 in good condition requires effort. Collectors and enthusiasts often search online marketplaces and gun shows. Proper maintenance, including regular cleaning and lubrication, is essential to preserve the functionality and longevity of this classic pistol. It is crucial to adhere to all local and federal laws and regulations regarding firearm ownership and handling.
Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of the Smith & Wesson Model 645
The Smith & Wesson Model 645 represents a significant chapter in the evolution of semi-automatic pistols. Though no longer in production, its robust design, powerful caliber, and reliable performance continue to attract collectors and enthusiasts. Its legacy lives on, not only in the minds of those who owned and used it, but also in the design features passed down to subsequent Smith & Wesson models. Understanding its history and characteristics offers a valuable perspective on the ongoing development of modern firearms technology.
