The Taurus PT145 (including PT145P and PT145 Millennium Pro variants) is a very compact, double-stack, polymer-framed striker-fired pistol chambered in .45 ACP with 10+1 capacity.
This Brazilian-made subcompact features a 3.25-inch barrel in a polymer frame measuring approximately 6.125 inches in overall length, 5.0-5.125 inches in height, and 1.25 inches in width, weighing approximately 22.2 ounces unloaded.
All PT145-branded Millennium pistols are discontinued and were explicitly included in the Taurus safety-defect class-action settlement covering drop-fire and "false safety" issues.
What Made the Taurus PT145 Notable in the Compact .45 Market?
The Taurus PT145 delivered an impressive 10+1 rounds of .45 ACP in a package smaller than a Glock 23, making it one of the most compact high-capacity .45 ACP pistols available during its production years. This ambitious design packed serious firepower into a remarkably small footprint before safety concerns effectively ended its production.
Taurus Armas manufactured the PT145 in Brazil, with Taurus International handling U.S. importation. The platform represented Taurus's attempt to provide service-caliber .45 ACP capability in a concealable double-stack format. When introduced in the early 2000s, few competitors offered similar capacity in comparable dimensions.
The PT145 evolved through the original Millennium generation (early DAO) to the Millennium Pro with improved trigger, Heinie Straight-8 sights, and refined ergonomics. The "Pro" designation (PT145PRO or PT145P) indicated the updated generation. Production continued into the mid-2000s before discontinuation.
Discontinuation ties directly to the class-action safety-defect settlement alleging drop-fire and false-safety issues, combined with Taurus's strategic shift toward newer G-series designs. Today, PT145 examples exist only on the used market, requiring careful consideration of safety history and individual specimen condition.
What Are the Complete Specifications of the Taurus PT145?
The Taurus PT145 Millennium Pro chambers .45 ACP with 10+1 capacity from double-stack magazines. It measures approximately 6.125 inches in overall length with a 3.25-inch barrel (6-groove, 1:16 twist), stands 5.0-5.125 inches tall, spans 1.25 inches wide, and weighs approximately 22.2 ounces unloaded.
Caliber
The PT145 chambers .45 ACP exclusively, delivering serious stopping power in a remarkably compact package. The double-stack design accommodates 10 rounds of the large-diameter cartridge—impressive capacity for the era's compact .45 ACP offerings.
Dimensions
Overall length reaches approximately 6.125 inches—shorter than a Glock 23 while packing more powerful ammunition. Height measures approximately 5.0-5.125 inches.
Width spans approximately 1.25 inches, reflecting the double-stack .45 ACP magazine requirements. These dimensions positioned the PT145 as unusually compact for its capacity and caliber.
Weight Specifications
Unloaded weight reaches approximately 22.2 ounces—light for a double-stack .45 ACP. This weight aids concealment but contributes to brisk recoil. The polymer frame and compact steel slide create manageable carry weight while challenging controllability during rapid fire.
Magazine Capacity
Double-stack 10-round magazines provide 10+1 total capacity. Guns typically shipped with two 10-round magazines. This capacity in a .45 ACP compact represented the PT145's primary selling point—serious firepower in minimal dimensions.
Barrel and Mechanical Specifications
The 3.25-inch barrel with 6-groove rifling (1:16 twist) provides adequate velocity for defensive .45 ACP loads. The dual recoil spring system helps manage .45 ACP recoil in the short slide. Analysis has noted shallow rifling as a design characteristic potentially affecting accuracy and longevity.
How Does the Taurus PT145 Design Compare to Modern Compact .45s?
The PT145 Millennium Pro features a polymer frame with checkered grip areas and a steel slide available in blue/black or stainless finishes.
The striker-fired action provides pre-set trigger operation with light take-up, defined break around 6 pounds, and second-strike capability (approximately 9 pounds). Multiple safety systems include a 1911-style frame-mounted thumb safety, internal firing-pin block, and trigger safety features.
Frame and Slide Construction
The polymer frame incorporates checkered grip areas with a very short grip front-to-back for a double-stack .45. Analysis has identified polymer frame rails rather than embedded steel rails, with shallow rifling noted as design characteristics affecting longevity expectations. Slides came in blue/black carbon steel or stainless ("SSP"/"Pro SS") configurations.
Ergonomics and Grip Design
The compact grip fits many hands surprisingly well for a small .45, with the 1911-style thumb safety providing familiar operation.
The short grip accommodates double-stack .45 ACP while maintaining remarkable compactness. Some shooters with large hands may find the grip short, though most reviewers praise the size/capacity balance.
Trigger System
The striker-fired trigger operates with pre-set ("single-action-like") characteristics: long, light take-up with a defined wall and break around 6 pounds.
Second-strike capability provides approximately 9-pound pull if a round fails to fire—practical for defensive scenarios. Reviewers find the trigger shootable once learned.
Sight Configuration
Heinie "Straight-8" style sights on most Millennium Pro examples feature one dot front and one dot rear stacked vertically.
Sights are dovetailed and windage-adjustable. Some owners report needing to file front sights to correct low point-of-impact, indicating inconsistent factory sight regulation.
Safety Systems
Multiple safeties include 1911-style frame-mounted thumb safety, internal firing-pin block, trigger safety features, and visible/tactile loaded-chamber indicator. The Taurus Security System key lock appears on many guns.
However, the class-action settlement alleged these safety systems could fail—guns potentially firing when dropped or with the safety engaged.
What Variants of the Taurus PT145 Were Produced?
Taurus produced the PT145 in original Millennium (Gen 1 DAO) and Millennium Pro (improved) generations, with finish options including blued, stainless, and two-tone. All variants share the 3.25-inch barrel and 10+1 capacity, and all were covered by the safety-defect settlement.
PT145 Millennium (Gen 1)
The original PT145 Millennium featured first-generation DAO trigger operation. This early variant was part of the initial Millennium line and explicitly included in the class-action settlement.
PT145 Millennium Pro (Gen 2/Gen 3)
The "Pro" update brought improved trigger characteristics, Heinie Straight-8 sights, and refined ergonomics. Often marked PT145PRO or PT145P on frames/slides, this generation represented the platform's peak development before discontinuation.
Finish Variants
All finish options (blued, stainless, two-tone) share identical mechanical specifications. The stainless slide variant offered enhanced corrosion resistance for carry use.
Related Millennium Family
The PT145 shares the Millennium/Millennium Pro platform with PT111 (9mm) and PT140 (.40 S&W). Ergonomics, trigger characteristics, and safety history parallel across the family, with caliber-specific capacity and recoil differences.
What Similar Pistols Compete with the Taurus PT145?
Compact 1911s offer .45 ACP in proven platforms with better long-term reliability reputations at higher prices.
The Springfield XD-S provided single-stack .45 ACP concealment. Kahr .45s deliver slim .45 ACP profiles. Modern Taurus G-series pistols (G2C, G3C, GX4) offer improved designs without settlement history, though currently in 9mm.
For compact .45 ACP today, buyers generally choose proven platforms over used PT145s given the safety concerns.
How Does the Taurus PT145 Perform at the Range?
The PT145 Millennium Pro delivers impressive accuracy when sights are properly regulated, with GunBlast documenting sub-2-inch groups at 25 yards with certain loads. Reliability varies by individual example and magazine quality.
Recoil proves brisk but manageable with proper technique. The safety settlement history demands thorough vetting of any specific example.
Accuracy Testing
Accuracy represents a PT145 strength when sights are properly regulated. GunBlast's 2004 test showed "very strong accuracy: defensive loads grouping around 2.5 inches at 25 yards, and some handloads producing groups around 1.25 inches from a rest"—excellent for such a compact pistol. Sixgun Journal reports keeping a full magazine on a head-size target at 20 paces.
However, shallow rifling and inconsistent factory sight regulation mean some guns shoot low or require front sight modification. Users on The High Road describe filing front sights to correct point-of-impact issues, indicating this wasn't isolated.
Recoil Characteristics
Recoil proves brisk in the 22-ounce package. Gun Tests describes it as a capable "street fighter" while noting the snappy recoil characteristics. Reviewers consistently describe recoil as "manageable but snappy," with short, rapid strings demanding good technique. Extended sessions can prove fatiguing, especially with full-power loads.
Reliability Assessment
Reliability shows individual variation reflecting the platform's complex history. GunBlast reports "flawless functioning with a variety of factory and handloaded ammunition," crediting the polished feed ramp and dual recoil spring. A recent High Road review describes a heavily used example "running multiple magazines without malfunctions."
However, Sixgun Journal describes one magazine as "effectively junk out of the box" requiring replacement. Other users report parts breakage (disassembly pins snapping), jamming, and magazine-drop issues.
The safety-defect settlement's inclusion of PT145 indicates systemic concerns beyond individual quality variation.
Trigger Performance
The pre-set trigger with light take-up and defined break around 6 pounds proves shootable once learned. Second-strike capability provides approximately 9-pound pull for failed primers—a practical defensive feature. Most reviewers consider the trigger acceptable while acknowledging it as typical Millennium-series rather than refined.
What Ammunition Works Best in the Taurus PT145?
The PT145 feeds various .45 ACP ammunition including factory defensive loads and handloads when individual examples function properly. The polished feed ramp aids reliability.
Given the platform's recoil characteristics, ammunition selection affects both function and shooting comfort.
Defensive Load Selection
Modern premium hollow-points from Federal, Speer, Hornady, and similar manufacturers should function in properly vetted PT145 pistols.
GunBlast documented reliable function with various factory and handloaded ammunition. The 3.25-inch barrel provides adequate velocity for defensive .45 ACP loads.
Practice Ammunition
Standard .45 ACP FMJ ammunition functions for range sessions. Sixgun Journal reports even 230-grain lead flat-point reloads feeding "slick as a whistle" once a defective magazine was replaced.
Budget-conscious shooters can train economically with standard loads while confirming function with chosen defensive ammunition.
Pre-Carry Testing
Given the safety settlement history and documented individual variation, extensive function testing before defensive reliance proves absolutely critical.
Running several hundred rounds through any used PT145, and replacing any suspect magazines—reveals issues requiring attention. Verifying specific serial numbers against settlement eligibility provides important context.
What Are the Best Use Cases for the Taurus PT145?
The PT145 served primarily as a compact concealed carry option for those wanting maximum .45 ACP firepower in minimum dimensions.
Today, used examples suit collectors or carefully vetted concealed carry for buyers who accept the platform's limitations and history.
Is the Taurus PT145 Good for Concealed Carry?
The PT145 was designed specifically for concealed carry, and its compact dimensions with 10+1 .45 ACP capacity made it attractive.
The safety-defect settlement history raises legitimate concerns about defensive reliance. Buyers considering PT145 for carry should verify settlement status, thoroughly vet the specific pistol and magazines, and consider whether modern alternatives better serve their needs.
Does the Taurus PT145 Work for Home Defense?
Home defense represents a possible PT145 application. The 10+1 .45 ACP capacity addresses defensive scenarios effectively. However, the same safety concerns apply, and larger platforms with better reliability track records may prove superior for dedicated home defense.
Can the Taurus PT145 Compete in Shooting Sports?
The PT145's snappy recoil, heavy trigger, and limited aftermarket challenge competitive use.
Casual shooting and skill development prove more realistic applications. The platform wasn't designed for competition, and shallow rifling/polymer rails suggest moderate round-count expectations rather than high-volume training.
Is This a Professional Tool or Historical Curiosity?
The PT145 today functions more as a historical curiosity or carefully-vetted collector piece than a recommended professional tool.
The safety settlement, discontinued status, documented QC issues, and availability of superior modern options position it as a used-market proposition for informed buyers rather than a first-choice recommendation.
What Holster Options Work Best for the Taurus PT145?
Finding the right Taurus PT145 holster requires attention to the platform's discontinued status and potentially limited new holster production. Existing Millennium-series holsters may fit, though verification remains important.
Cloak Tuck 3.5 IWB Holster
The Cloak Tuck 3.5 delivers comfort for inside-the-waistband carry of your Taurus PT145. The breathable backing and adjustable retention make this PT145 Millennium Pro holster suitable for concealed carry applications.
What Are the Pros and Cons of the Taurus PT145?
Strengths:
- 10+1 .45 ACP capacity in remarkably compact package
- Impressive accuracy potential when sights are regulated
- Smaller than Glock 23 with .45 ACP power
- Generally reliable with good magazines in vetted examples
- Comfortable ergonomics for small .45
- 1911-style thumb safety operation
- Second-strike trigger capability
- Dual recoil spring system
- Low used-market pricing
- Heinie Straight-8 sights on Pro models
Limitations:
- Covered by safety-defect class-action settlement
- Drop-fire and false-safety issues alleged
- Brisk, fatiguing recoil in light frame
- Documented QC variability (magazines, small parts)
- Shallow rifling affects accuracy/longevity
- Polymer frame rails limit expected service life
- Discontinued—no factory support
- Some guns shoot low requiring sight modification
- Customer service during settlement described as poor
- Settlement history affects resale value
Should You Buy a Taurus PT145?
The Taurus PT145 earns a heavily conditional recommendation only for informed buyers who understand the platform's safety settlement history, thoroughly vet individual specimens, and accept the limitations of a discontinued design with documented safety concerns. Most buyers seeking compact .45 ACP should consider modern alternatives.
Who Should Consider the Taurus PT145?
The PT145 might suit collectors interested in Taurus history, budget buyers finding deeply discounted used examples willing to thoroughly vet their specific pistol and magazines, or those specifically wanting maximum .45 ACP capacity in minimum dimensions who accept associated risks.
Buyers should absolutely verify any PT145's settlement status and eligibility for repair/replacement before purchase. Those uncomfortable with the safety history should choose modern alternatives. New buyers seeking compact .45 ACP should generally prefer current-production pistols with established reliability records.
Value Assessment
Used PT145 pistols at sub-$250 prices represent potential value only for informed buyers accepting significant caveats.
The safety settlement, documented QC issues, polymer rails, shallow rifling, and availability of modern alternatives mean the "value" equation requires weighing more than just price. Many shooters reasonably conclude that paying more for a modern platform without safety controversy provides better long-term value.
Long-Term Ownership Considerations
The PT145's discontinued status creates significant long-term concerns. Parts and service rely on surplus availability. The safety settlement demonstrated systemic issues requiring attention.
Polymer frame rails and shallow rifling suggest moderate service life expectations. Sixgun Journal's experience with year-long settlement repair delays and "absolutely the worst" customer service underscores support limitations.
Prospective buyers should consider whether preserving an aging, safety-questioned platform serves their needs better than current alternatives.
The Taurus PT145 achieved something impressive, 10+1 rounds of .45 ACP in remarkably compact dimensions—before safety concerns effectively ended its production. For informed buyers who carefully vet individual examples, functional pistols may exist, but the platform's history demands thorough consideration before purchase