The Para-Ordnance P14-45 (14.45) is an improved derivative of the successful United States Armed Forces' M1911 pistol. Created by Para-Ordnance (later Para USA) in the 1980s, it was the first ever M1911 derivative to feature a high-capacity double-stack magazine.

In the late 1980s, Toronto-based Para-Ordnance started selling "high capacity conversion kits" for M1911A1 pistols, consisting of an updated frame with a thicker grip to accommodate a double-stack magazine that was supplied with the kit, which doubled M1911's 7-round magazine capacity to 14; and a new trigger assembly with suitable dimensional changes to fit into the widened grip frame. With the success of the kits, Para-Ordnance began manufacturing complete M1911 pistols of its own in 1990.^[1]

In 1999, the double-action-only LDA modification, was introduced.^[1]

The P14-45 (later 14.45) is the standard model, and as its name hints, it is chambered in .45 ACP and has a magazine capacity of 14. Other versions include P16-40 (16.40) chambered .40 S&W and features a 16-round magazine, and P18-9 (18.9) which is chambered in 9×19mm Parabellum and features an 18-round magazine.

The Expert is the basic model of 14.45, it features a 5" match-grade barrel, beavertail grip safety, polymer grips and is available in black nitride or stainless finish.^[2][3]

The Black Ops is the tactical model, differing from the Expert by having a ramped barrel, integral accessory rail, Trijicon Tritium night sights, ambidextrous thumb safety, VZ Operator Machined G10 grips and is coated in IonBond PVD.^[4] The Black Ops model is also available in "Recon" variant with a 4.25" barrel, and Combat variant with high-profile sights and a 5.5" barrel.

The Pro Custom is the competition model. It features a match-grade ramped barrel, adjustable sights, ambidextrous thumb safety, and like Black Ops, has G10 grips and coated in IonBond PVD.^[5]

References