Kahr Arms CM4543 CM45 45 ACP 5+1 3.30″ Serrated Steel Barrel, Matte Stainless Serrated Steel Slide, Black Polymer Frame, Black Textured Polymer Grip, No Safety, Right Hand
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 20.8 oz unloaded — maintains manageable heft for .45 ACP recoil control.
- 3.30-inch serrated steel barrel provides a solid sight radius for a subcompact.
- 4140 steel inserts molded into polymer frame increase rigidity versus standard polymer.
- Passive firing pin block safety eliminates manual safety manipulation under stress.
Trade-offs
- DAO trigger pull measures 8-9 lbs — requires dedicated practice for accuracy.
- 5+1 capacity is limited versus modern micro-9mm pistols holding 10+ rounds.
- No optics cut — milling for an RMR adds $150-200 and voids the factory warranty.
- Matte stainless slide shows holster wear more readily than a black Nitride finish.
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Kahr Arms CM4543 CM45 is a compact .45 ACP pistol designed for concealed carry, built with a matte stainless steel slide, a black polymer frame with steel reinforcement, and no external safety. This is a purpose-built defensive handgun from a manufacturer known for specialized, no-frills designs. Its 3.30-inch serrated steel barrel and double-action-only trigger are engineered for reliable performance in close-quarters situations.
What is the Kahr Arms CM45 used for?
The CM45 is used for daily concealed carry. Its primary function is to provide a more concealable .45 ACP platform without sacrificing the cartridge's proven terminal ballistics. The 5+1 capacity and compact dimensions make it suitable for discreet IWB or ankle carry, while the passive firing pin block safety ensures it's secure when holstered without requiring manual dexterity under stress.
How does the Kahr Arms CM45 compare to the Springfield Armory XD-S?
The Kahr CM45 is better for shooters who prioritize a consistent double-action trigger pull, whereas the Springfield XD-S offers a striker-fired system with a consistent, lighter break. The Kahr's trigger measures approximately 8-9 pounds for its full DAO stroke, promoting deliberate fire, while the XD-S trigger breaks at around 5.5-6.5 pounds. Both are subcompact .45s, but the Kahr's mechanical design requires mastering a longer, heavier pull versus the XD-S's more traditional striker feel.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded, the CM45 weighs 20.8 ounces. Its overall length is 5.87 inches, height is 4.49 inches, and it maintains a slide width of 0.94 inches. The 3.30-inch barrel contributes to the compact profile, making it over an inch shorter in overall length than many duty-sized .45s like the Glock 21.
Who is this NOT for?
This pistol is not for a first-time handgun owner or someone unfamiliar with a pure double-action trigger system. The long, deliberate trigger stroke demands practice to shoot accurately and safely. It's also a poor choice for a home defense primary where capacity is paramount—its 5+1 round count is limiting compared to higher-capacity pistols available in calibers like 9mm. If you're looking for a versatile, high-capacity range and home defense tool, consider something like the Stevens 334 rifle in .308.
What's in the box?
The factory box contains one pistol, one 5-round stainless steel magazine, and a standard cable lock. Kahr typically includes owner's manuals and warranty paperwork, but does not provide a holster, spare magazine, or cleaning kit. You will need to source .45 ACP ammunition, a suitable holster, and eye and ear protection separately.
Is the Kahr Arms CM45 worth it at $405.99?
At $405.99, the CM45 is worth it for a shooter who specifically wants a compact, American-made .45 with Kahr's unique trigger system. You're paying for a niche mechanical design—the patented cocking cam system and reinforced polymer frame—not for accessories or high capacity. If your priority is low-cost, high-round-count practice with a different action type, a Stevens 555 shotgun offers a different kind of value for recreational shooting.
Key attributes
| upc | 602686127318 |
| manufacturer | Kahr Arms |
| manufacturer part number | CM4543 |
| action | Striker Fired |
| atf type | Pistol |
| barrel length | 3.24" |
| caliber/gauge | .45 ACP |
| capacity | 5 + 1 |
| color | Stainless |
| length | 6 |
| number of magazines | 1 5 rd. |
| package height | 4.5 |
| package width | 9.25 |
| product type | Semi-Auto Pistol |
| safety | Manual Safety |
| shipping weight | 2.0 |
| sights | RS: White Bar-Dot FS: Pinned |
| sights type | Adjustable Sights |
| slide description | Serrated Matte Stainless Steel |
| state restriction (ca) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO CALIFORNIA |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with Kahr CW45 magazines?
- Yes, the CM4543 is fully compatible with Kahr CW45 magazines. Both models share the same magazine design and 5-round capacity for .45 ACP. Use only factory Kahr magazines to ensure reliable feeding and proper lock-back on an empty chamber.
- Does it fit Glock 30 holsters?
- No, the CM45 will not reliably fit holsters molded for the Glock 30. The slide and frame dimensions differ significantly. You need a holster specifically designed for the Kahr CM/CW45 series. Brands like Vedder and CrossBreed offer molded options with a 4-6 week lead time for custom orders.
- Does this work with a threaded barrel?
- No, the CM45 does not come with a threaded barrel, and aftermarket options are exceedingly rare. Suppressing this platform is not practical without significant, gunsmith-level modification. For a suppressor-ready .45, you would need to start with a factory-threaded model from another manufacturer.
- Can I return it if I can't handle the trigger?
- No, Ironclad Armory's policy prohibits returns on firearms due to shooter preference or handling issues, in compliance with federal law. Once the firearm is transferred to you, it cannot be returned as new. I strongly recommend dry-firing a similar Kahr model at a rental range before purchasing.