What is the biggest animal this cartidge could kill?? I am very new to pistols but I am in love with the 1911 look so I am thinking about getting one...what do you guys think or what do you think woul dbe a better first pistol??

With the right shot placemnet the 45 ACP would kill about any animal in NA. However this is not really their intended use. It is mainly a short range self defense cartridge and an excellent taget and match caliber. If hunting big game is what you have in mind then the 357 Mag would be my minimum choice and the 44 Mag would be better yet. For self defense and fun shooting though, the 1911 45 ACP is a very good choice.

I agree with the above, not a very good hunting weapon and most likely not even legal in most places. A lot of states have minimum shell capacity and barrel length regulations.

Paul

Agreed. A great antipersonnel piece if that is what you need. Not the best hunter. Petrey10, you did not say what your intended use is. If you are a self trainer on pistol shooting, you *might* want to start out with a .357 magnum loaded with 38 special wadcutters. To be honest, the great M1911 intimidates people both in front of, and behind, the muzzle. Now if you have a decent coach, go for it.

I want something that is fun to shoot...cheap to buy or reload...and be able to kill a coyote if I happen to run into one while on my 4 wheeler....what do you guys think??

The 45 would do that if you can hit him.

I reckon the 9mm will do the job and ammo is a skosh cheaper. Easier to learn to shoot for the average soldier.

9mm's are for people thinking about getting real guns later! Just kidding.

Seriously? I love the .45. I would definately recommend the Kimber. They make the best .45 hands down. Kinda pricey, but worth it.

what would be the range on a coyote shooting the 45 and the 9mm...any difference? is the recoil unbarable on the 45

For those purposes a 357 mag would by my choice.

Paul