The Smith & Wesson Model 4563 is a full-size .45 ACP semi-automatic pistol you’ll find from the early 2000s. It features an aluminum alloy frame paired with a stainless steel slide, making it lighter than its Model 4566 predecessor. You’ll get a 4.25-inch barrel, 8-round magazine capacity, and ambidextrous safety/decocker. The pistol’s dual-mode trigger offers 9-10 lb DA and 4-5 lb SA pull weights. While parts availability is limited, its lightweight design and reliable third-generation mechanics make it an interesting defensive and collector’s option.
Key Takeaways
- Full-size .45 ACP semi-automatic pistol featuring an aluminum alloy frame and stainless steel slide, introduced in early 2000s.
- Weighs 30.6 ounces unloaded with a 4.25-inch barrel and 8-round magazine capacity.
- Features dual-mode trigger system with 9-10 pound double action and 4-5 pound single action pull.
- Used models typically sell between $600-$815, with limited availability of replacement parts.
- Includes ambidextrous safety/decocker controls and fixed sights for versatile defensive and collection purposes.
Description
The Smith & Wesson Model 4563 is a full-size semi-automatic pistol introduced in the early 2000s as a lightweight alternative to the Model 4566. The pistol features an aluminum alloy frame paired with a stainless steel slide, chambered in .45 ACP.
You’ll find a 4.25-inch barrel length, 8-round magazine capacity, and fixed sights. The 4563 comes in two main variants: all-black or two-tone alloy frame configurations.
Price Range
Due to limited market data, determining precise values for the Smith & Wesson Model 4563 remains challenging. You’ll find used models selling between $600-$815, with prices varying based on condition and specifications. As a Special order Performance Center variant similar to the SIG P series, factors like caliber and generation affect value.
| Condition | Price Range | Sales Data |
|---|---|---|
| New | Unknown | No Data |
| Used | $600-$815 | 6 Units |
| Trade-in | Unknown | No Data |
| Private | Unknown | No Data |
| Custom | Unknown | No Data |
Specifications
The Model 4563’s aluminum alloy frame keeps the weight at just 30.6 ounces unloaded, making it noticeably lighter than traditional all-steel .45 ACP pistols. You’ll find a 4.25-inch barrel paired with a stainless steel slide, creating an ideal balance between concealment and sight radius. The pistol’s 8-round magazine capacity provides standard .45 ACP ammunition capacity while maintaining a reliable feeding system.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Frame Material | Aluminum Alloy |
| Slide Material | Stainless Steel |
| Magazine Capacity | 8 Rounds |
Weight
Weighing 30.6 ounces, Smith & Wesson’s Model 4563 pistol achieves significant weight reduction through its aluminum alloy frame while maintaining a stainless steel slide.
You’ll find it’s much less cumbersome than the Model 4566, shedding approximately 5 ounces from its all-steel predecessor. The lightweight design maintains excellent balance and durability, making it ideal for law enforcement and military personnel who need reduced fatigue during extended carry.
Barrel Length
Measuring precisely 4.25 inches, the cold-hammer forged barrel of Smith & Wesson’s Model 4563 optimizes velocity for 45 ACP cartridges while maintaining a compact profile.
The stainless steel construction ensures durability, while the 1:16 twist rate delivers accurate ballistics with various ammunition types.
You’ll find this barrel length provides excellent recoil management and proves ideal for concealed carry applications without compromising performance.
Material Made Out Of
Engineered with durability in mind, Smith & Wesson’s Model 4563 combines an aluminum alloy frame with a rugged stainless steel slide. The durable construction balances performance with practicality, as you’ll find the lightweight frame contributes to the pistol’s modest 30.6-ounce overall weight.
The stainless steel components provide excellent corrosion resistance, ensuring the firearm maintains its reliability and appearance over time.
Chambered In
The Smith & Wesson Model 4563 fires the potent .45 ACP cartridge through its 4.25-inch barrel, delivering both power and accuracy. The caliber choice of .45 ACP provides excellent stopping power, making it a popular option for self-defense and tactical applications.
You’ll find the 8-round magazine capacity sufficient for most scenarios, while the fixed sights help you maintain consistent shot placement.
Capacity
Specifications on the Model 4563 reveal a balanced blend of power and practicality. The magazine size accommodates 8 rounds of .45 ACP ammunition, offering you a standard capacity for a full-size pistol in this caliber.
You’ll find the round capacity suitable for defensive use, while maintaining compatibility with widely available .45 ACP ammunition. The magazine’s configuration complements the pistol’s 30.6-ounce weight distribution.
Trigger Pull
Precise trigger control defines the Model 4563’s dual-mode operation, featuring a 9-10 pound double-action pull and a lighter 4-5 pound single-action pull. You’ll experience smooth, consistent trigger performance throughout the stroke in both modes.
The tactile and audible reset enhances your trigger sensitivity for rapid follow-up shots. While individual units may show slight variations in trigger customization options, the system’s designed for reliable operation under diverse conditions.
Safety?
Safety integration stands at the forefront of the Model 4563’s design, featuring an ambidextrous safety/decocker lever mounted on the slide’s left side. The intuitive operation lets you switch between “fire” and “safe” positions while providing tactile feedback during manipulation.
You’ll find the decocker seamlessly disengages the sear when lowering the hammer, enhancing the pistol’s double-action/single-action functionality through its ambidextrous design.
Action
Built around a robust double-action/single-action operating system, the Model 4563 delivers a smooth trigger pull that transitions from an initial 12-pound double-action weight to a crisp 4.5-pound single-action release.
The trigger mechanism operates in harmony with the stainless steel slide, ensuring smooth operation through each cycle. You’ll find the hammer function enhanced by the ambidextrous safety/decocker, allowing for confident carry and manipulation.
Optic Ready?
The Model 4563 comes standard with fixed iron sights and lacks modern optic mounting capabilities. You’ll find a Novak 3-dot sight system, typical for its era.
While there’s an equipment rail for tactical accessories, it’s not designed for optics. If you’re looking to mount a red dot sight, you’ll need aftermarket optic mounts or custom optic solutions, as the pistol doesn’t offer direct optic compatibility without modifications.
Review
When you examine the 4563 CQB’s operational characteristics, you’ll find the lightweight aluminum frame offers improved carry comfort while maintaining the proven .45 ACP stopping power of its steel-framed siblings. You’ll notice the reliability benefits from S&W’s traditional third-generation semi-auto design, though parts scarcity can make maintenance challenging.
The pistol’s rail system and Novak sights provide tactical versatility, but the limited production run means you’ll likely pay a premium if you locate one for sale.
Pros
Designed with precision engineering, the Smith & Wesson 4563’s aluminum frame offers a significant weight reduction compared to its all-steel counterpart while maintaining full-size 45 ACP performance. You’ll appreciate its compact size and consistent accuracy in a lightweight design.
| Feature | Benefit | Application |
|---|---|---|
| Aluminum Frame | Weight Reduction | Duty Carry |
| 4.25″ Barrel | Balance Control | Target Shooting |
| Ambidextrous Controls | Universal Access | Tactical Use |
The CQB variant adds enhanced features like an equipment rail and Novak sights, making it a versatile choice for both defensive and collection purposes.
Cons
Despite its innovative design, significant drawbacks of the 4563TSW stem from its discontinued status and aluminum construction. You’ll face limited parts availability and potential frame cracking issues over time. The specific magazines are harder to source than standard S&W models.
| Concern | Impact |
|---|---|
| Parts Supply | Scarce replacement components |
| Frame Durability | Aluminum prone to wear |
| Magazine Availability | Difficult to find |
| Safety Design | Less intuitive controls |
The slide-mounted decocker may require additional training to operate effectively compared to traditional safety mechanisms.
Reliability
The 4563TSW’s proven track record in military and law enforcement service demonstrates exceptional reliability across diverse operating conditions. You’ll find consistent performance with various ammunition types, thanks to its robust design and quality construction.
The pistol’s ease of maintenance supports long-term durability, though you’ll need to follow standard care procedures to maintain optimal function throughout its service life.
Similar Models
Several variants of the Smith & Wesson Model 4563 emerged during its production run, including the stainless steel Model 4566 and the aluminum-framed Model 4513TSW.
The production timeline also included specialized variants like the Performance Center Model 4563CQB, featuring a shortened barrel. Earlier prototypes, such as the Model 4503 and Model 457, helped establish the design foundations for these aesthetic variants.
Similar Models From Other Manufacturers
Many high-end pistols stack up against the Smith & Wesson Model 4563 in terms of quality and performance. The SIG P210 and P220 offer comparable craftsmanship, while the Glock 21 and XD-M provide modern polymer-frame ergonomics.
If you’re considering aftermarket accessories, the HK USP delivers similar versatility. The Colt Delta Elite, with its 10mm chambering, presents an alternative for those prioritizing power over concealability.
Maintenance
Proper maintenance of your Smith & Wesson Model 4563 starts with regular cleaning and lubrication after each use. Follow the manufacturer’s cleaning procedure carefully during disassembly and reassembly.
Inspect critical components like the trigger, sights, and safety mechanisms for wear. Use only approved solvents and lubricants to protect the finish and internal parts. Always verify the barrel is free from obstructions before firing.
History
The Smith & Wesson Model 4563 emerged in the early 2000s as an aluminum-framed variant of the 4566, addressing market demand for a lighter full-size .45 ACP pistol.
Production was limited to just 319 standard units across two variants – all-black and two-tone alloy frames. The 4563 CQB version followed, with 319 total units produced by S&W’s TSW division. Today, these aluminum frame designs command significant collector’s item value due to their rarity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Smith and Wesson Revolvers Hold Value?
Yes, you’ll find that Smith & Wesson revolvers consistently hold their value in today’s resale market trends. These firearms typically retain 60-80% of their original price, with some models appreciating over time.
The collector’s market value remains strong, especially for classic models like the Model 29. If you’re considering aftermarket modification options, they generally won’t decrease value when done professionally. Well-maintained S&W revolvers often command premium prices in the secondary market.
What Is the Rarest Smith and Wesson Gun?
You’d think the rarest S&W would be one of their famous revolvers, but surprisingly, it’s the prototype Model 4503. With limited production runs, only a handful of these aluminum-framed 45 caliber pistols exist in private hands.
What makes it even more intriguing is that the frames cracked during testing, leading to its extreme scarcity. Custom variants like this drive collector’s demand sky-high, with recent examples selling for around $3,000 at auction.
How Many Rounds Does a Smith & Wesson 4506 Hold?
The Smith & Wesson 4506’s magazine capacity is 8 rounds of .45 ACP ammunition. You’ll find that this standard factory magazine capacity complements the pistol’s trigger mechanism design and grip ergonomics perfectly.
If you’re looking for increased capacity, you can find aftermarket magazines, though they weren’t factory-issued. The 8-round capacity was typical for full-size .45 ACP service pistols of the late 1980s and 1990s when S&W produced this model.
What Gun Did Glock Sues Smith and Wesson?
You’re referring to a misconception – Glock didn’t actually sue Smith & Wesson over the Model 4563. While there have been various handgun design disputes and patent infringement cases in the firearms industry, this particular lawsuit doesn’t exist.
The Model 4563 was S&W’s aluminum-framed .45 ACP pistol, distinctly different from Glock’s polymer-frame designs. When you’re researching gun manufacturer lawsuits, it’s important to verify your sources to avoid mixing up historical facts.
Conclusion
You’ll find the Smith & Wesson Model 4563, like its spiritual predecessor the M1911, represents a significant chapter in firearm evolution. While it hasn’t achieved the legendary status of John Browning’s masterpiece, this pistol delivers reliable performance at a competitive price point. Your investment in this model rewards you with a robust design, straightforward maintenance requirements, and compatibility with widely available parts and accessories.
0 Comments