The Smith & Wesson Model 645 holds a significant place in the history of semi-automatic pistols. This article will explore its design, history, variations, and enduring legacy among firearm enthusiasts. We'll delve into the details that made the 645 a popular choice, and discuss its impact on the broader handgun market. Understanding the Smith & Wesson 645 requires looking at its technical specifications, its place in S&W's lineup, and its overall performance.
The Smith & Wesson Model 645: Design and Features
The Smith & Wesson Model 645, introduced in 1983, was a significant departure from S&W's traditional revolver-focused catalog. It was designed as a compact, reliable, and powerful semi-automatic pistol chambered in the popular .45 ACP cartridge. Key features included:
- .45 ACP Caliber: This powerful cartridge offered substantial stopping power, making the 645 suitable for self-defense and law enforcement applications.
- Double-Action/Single-Action (DA/SA) Trigger: This allowed for either a double-action trigger pull (cocking the hammer and firing in one motion) or a lighter single-action pull after manually cocking the hammer.
- Steel Frame: The all-steel frame contributed to the pistol's durability and robustness.
- Eight-Round Capacity: While not exceptionally high for modern standards, the eight-round magazine capacity was considered substantial for a compact .45 ACP pistol at the time of its release.
- Ambidextrous Safety: The ambidextrous thumb safety catered to both right- and left-handed shooters, enhancing usability.
Internal Mechanisms: A Closer Look
The Model 645 utilized a short recoil-operated system, a common mechanism for semi-automatic pistols. This system uses the force of the recoiling barrel and slide to cycle the action, chambering a fresh round. The internal workings of the 645 are characterized by their robust construction and the use of high-quality materials, ensuring reliability even under demanding conditions. The design of the locking system is a key element of its reliability.
The Model 645's Place in Smith & Wesson History
The Model 645 represented a strategic move by Smith & Wesson into the growing market for semi-automatic pistols. At the time, the company was primarily known for its revolvers, but the increasing popularity of semi-autos necessitated diversification. The 645 aimed to compete with other established .45 ACP pistols and quickly gained a reputation for its reliability and accuracy. Its introduction marked a turning point for S&W, establishing their expertise in both revolver and semi-auto pistol production.
Variations and Successors
The Model 645 was later followed by several variations and successors, including the Model 645 (the original version, later discontinued), and the Smith & Wesson 4506. These models often incorporated improvements such as a higher capacity magazine, different sights, or altered ergonomics. The Model 4506, particularly, built upon the success of the 645 while implementing updates sought by users and law enforcement. These successors helped maintain S&W's presence in the semi-automatic market, building on the design legacy established by the 645.
Smith & Wesson 645: Performance and Legacy
The Model 645 earned a strong reputation for its reliability and accuracy. While some users found the trigger pull somewhat heavy in double-action mode, its consistent performance across many rounds and diverse situations garnered significant praise. Many law enforcement agencies adopted the 645, demonstrating their confidence in its dependability in high-pressure situations.
Comparison to Competitors
Compared to other .45 ACP semi-automatics of its time, such as the Colt 1911 and various SIG Sauer pistols, the 645 offered a balance of size, weight, capacity, and power that made it attractive. It wasn't the lightest or the smallest, but it provided a substantial level of stopping power in a relatively manageable package. This combination contributed significantly to its popularity.
Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of the Smith & Wesson 645
The Smith & Wesson Model 645 holds a notable position in firearm history. Its reliable performance, robust construction, and powerful .45 ACP caliber cemented its place as a respected self-defense and law enforcement sidearm. While newer designs might offer enhanced features or different ergonomic choices, the legacy of the 645, and its successors, showcases S&W's commitment to providing reliable and effective firearms. Its influence continues to be felt in modern semi-automatic pistol design, making it a significant piece in the overall story of firearm technology.