Best 1911 Pistols
A Comprehensive Guide
The 1911 pistol is one of the most beloved handguns in history. It was created by John Moses Browning, who also designed many other weapons used during both World Wars and later conflicts. This article will present a selection of some of the best 1911 pistols available on the market.
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Best 1911 Pistols
Guns.com
From $999.99
There are a lot of different manufacturers out there that make 1911 pistols, but not all are created equal. Some have better features than others, some cost less than others, and some are of higher quality. We’ve done extensive research to find what we think are the best 1911 pistols on the market today for every budget.
Table of Contents
If you are in a hurry to purchase the best 1911 pistols, and you want to make the best decision, here are our top 3 picks:
Top 3 Best 1911 Pistols
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Our solution involves reviewing and comparing top models against each other based on performance, price point, reliability ratings, durability, aesthetics/style preferences (personal opinion), etc., so you can decide which model will work best for your needs.
5 Best 1911 Pistols
(Ranked And Reviewed)
1. SMITH & WESSON 1911 PC PRO
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Specifications
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Caliber:
9mm Luger
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Capacity:
8+1
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Length:
6.9 Inches
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Barrel Length:
3 Inches
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Grip:
Fully Stippled Synthetic
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Frame:
Material Scandium Alloy
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Action:
Single Action
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Weight:
26.0 Oz
This 1911 pistol is manufactured by Smith & Wesson, one of the oldest gun manufacturers in the United States. It was designed for law enforcement use, but it’s also appropriate for self-defense purposes. Using modern manufacturing techniques that are employed across all firearms these days, they created a high-quality design that is reliable and durable for heavy-duty use. It comes in a matte black frame with a stainless steel slide, and it has an 8+1 round capacity of 9mm. It weighs 26 ounces unloaded. The 3-inch barrel makes it easy to conceal and enables better accuracy at longer distances. Since the recoil is lighter than other more powerful calibers, it can be more accurate after firing multiple rounds quickly without getting too tired. It has an overall length of 6.9 inches.
The grip is fully stippled, and it has a flared magazine well that makes it easier to reload quickly. It also comes with ambidextrous thumb safety. The grips are made from synthetic rubber, which prevents slippage in the hands when firing even in very hot or cold temperatures. There’s also a high-visibility front sight that comes with a white dot. The rear sight is fixed and also has a notch. The trigger design is unique, with an overtravel stop that makes it easier to fire more accurately. The trigger pull is smooth, with a 3-hole curved design – ideal for defensive use. The trigger is curved and considerably wide, making it easier to handle when shooting quickly. The barrel is stainless steel and features an oversized external extractor with a loaded chamber indicator.
The slide is made from stainless steel, and it’s pretty durable. Reviews for this 1911 pistol are overwhelmingly positive. Consumers feel that it’s easy to fire accurately, even after firing multiple rounds quickly. And the recoil is much lighter than other handguns that shoot the more powerful .45 ACP round. One of the best features of this gun is the trigger; since it’s made out of curved metal, it doesn’t feel clunky like the standard 1911 pistols. The grip is very comfortable, and it doesn’t look too big or bulky for concealed carry purposes. For less than $900, this gun comes with several features geared towards tactical use by police or military officers. It’s sturdily made, easy to shoot accurately, and sleek modern design. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to invest in their first 1911 pistol or those who would prefer a slightly more budget-friendly model.
Positive
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It has synthetic rubber grips for better handling in any weather conditions -
It has a 3-inch barrel for better accuracy -
Its sights ensure greater visibility and accuracy -
It has ambidextrous thumb safety
Negatives
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It doesn’t have manual safety like other 1911 pistols
2. SPRINGFIELD ARMORY RONIN 1911 EMP
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Specifications
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Caliber:
9mm
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Magazines:
(1) 9-Round
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Overal Length:
6.6 Inches
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Barrel:
3″ Forged Stainless Steel, Match Grade
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Grip:
Wood
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Frame:
Forged Aluminum Alloy, Satin Aluminum Cerakote®
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Height:
4.8 Inches
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Weight:
24 Oz
The Ronin 1911 EMP is a compact, single-stack 9mm with the same design as the standard 1911. It comes with an aluminum alloy frame and stainless steel slide. The barrel is 3 inches long, made for accuracy at longer distances than other similar models. Its barrel compensator cuts down on muzzle climb, making it easier to shoot for longer periods without getting tired. The grip is made from wood, and the textured pattern adds an extra layer of comfortability when shooting quickly or with one hand. The Ronin 1911 EMP comes standard with a 9-round magazine. It has an ambidextrous thumb safety and a fiber optic front sight to help you aim more accurately at your target. It weighs 24 ounces and is only 6.6 inches long, making it suitable for concealed carry purposes. If you like the standard design of a 1911 but want something smaller and lighter, this model may be a good choice for you.
Positive
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It is lightweight -
It is suitable for concealed carry purposes -
It is compatible with many aftermarket 1911 parts -
Barrel compensator makes it easier to shoot for extensive periods
Negatives
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Some shooters find issues with its slide
3. ROCK ISLAND ARMORY ROCK STANDARD FS DS
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Specifications
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Caliber:
.45 ACP
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Magazines Included:
1
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Overal Length:
8.56 Inches
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Barrel Length:
5 Inches
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Action:
Semi Automatic
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Finish:
Patriot Brown
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Capacity:
8+1
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Weight:
39.86 Oz
This model has many features as other 1911 pistols, such as a 5-inch barrel and single-action design. It comes with a skeleton hammer and crisp trigger pull to make it easier to shoot for those with smaller hands. The grips are G10 Desert Storm, so they’re designed to be more comfortable for shooters who are prone to getting fatigued when holding onto the grip too long. It also has a stainless steel frame finish that’s scratch-resistant and corrosion-resistant if you take it out in less than ideal weather conditions. This model has two safety features: an ambidextrous thumb safety and a beavertail grip.
The ambidextrous safety makes it easier to shoot for both right-handed and left-handed. At the same time, the beavertail grip prevents the webbing of your hand from hurting after long periods of shooting without proper protection. It has a skeletonized trigger, so users with smaller hands will operate it more easily. The Rock Standard is compatible with aftermarket 1911 parts. It weighs 39.86 ounces, making it heavier than other models but still relatively lightweight for a .45 ACP pistol.
Positive
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Its G10 grips ensure added comfortability -
It comes with safety features -
It is a great choice for novice and experienced shooters -
It has a stainless steel finish that adds to its aesthetics and durability
Negatives
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It doesn’t have a front fiber optic sight
4. SDS IMPORTS 1911A1
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Specifications
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Caliber:
9mm
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Sights:
GI Style Sights
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Finish:
Black
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Barrel Length:
5″ Hammer Forged Chome-Plated Barrel
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Action:
Semi Automatic
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Capacity:
9 Round Magazine
This version of the 1911A1 is an updated model designed for both new and experienced shooters of 1911. It has a 5-inch hammer-forged, chrome-plated barrel and a full-size frame made of forged aluminum. The GI-style sights make it easier to line up shots, while the flared and lowered ejection port makes it easier to reload. It has a black Cerakote finish and polished feed ramp and lip, making it more resistant to corrosion and easier to clean after firing hundreds of rounds without proper care. The beveled magazine well makes it easier for shooters with smaller hands to insert magazines. It has Series 70 internals, which means this model is compatible with aftermarket 1911 parts. The frame and barrel are made of steel, so it’s somewhat heavy. Moreover, there’s a polished trigger, and combat hammer included on this model, making it easier to fire and allowing the slide to cycle quickly and smoothly.
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Positive
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Its full-sized frame is easy to grip for shooters with large hands -
It has a durable black Cerakote finish that keeps it safe from wear -
It offers great value for money -
You can customize it to your likings with multiple available accessories
Negatives
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It produces a bit more recoil -
The barrel is a little long, making it more difficult to conceal
5. Browning 1911-22 Black Label
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Specifications
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Caliber:
22 LR
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Frame Material:
Polymer
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Overall Length:
7 1/2 Inches
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Barrel Length:
4 1/4 Inches
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Weight:
14 Oz
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Grips:
Black Laminated and Stippled
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Magazine Capacity:
10
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Magazine Type:
Single Stack
This 1911-style handgun features a polymer frame resistant to corrosion and wear, making it easy to maintain. It has a single stack magazine that holds ten rounds of ammunition at a time, so shooters don’t have to worry about reloading as often. The black laminated and stippled grips are comfortable, while the checkered front strap makes it easy to grip, even when the shooter’s hands are sweaty. It has a commander hammer designed for quick-firing, while the extended beavertail grip safety makes it easier to fire without worrying about accidental discharges. The extended slide release makes it easier to charge the firearm before taking shots. It also has Picatinny rails so that shooters can attach accessories, such as lights or lasers. It shoots 22 LR ammunition, so it’s cheaper to fire than many other handgun models. It weighs just 14 ounces empty, making it easy to carry all day without discomfort or fatigue.
Positive
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It has a polymer frame that is easy to maintain -
It comes with ten rounds capacity -
Its laminated and stippled material grips are super comfortable to shoot with -
It shoots smoothly and accurately
Negatives
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It doesn’t come with adjustable sights
What To Consider While Buying The Best 1911 Pistols?
Best 1911 Pistols are the result of early 20th-century technological advancements. Though it has become more accepted worldwide due to its ease of use and accuracy, there are still some important considerations that any shooter should take into account before buying one for themselves or their loved ones, such as:
Type of Use
If the firearm is going to be used for protection, it is crucial to find one with at least a 5-inch barrel length. This will make the pistol more accurate and easier to shoot with if someone plans on using it outside or in their home for self-defense. Some 1911 handguns come with adjustable sights while others don’t. These adjustable combat sights help improve accuracy and make it easier for shooters looking to practice target shooting. If someone plans on using their pistol for home defense or concealed carry, they’ll want to make sure that the design is easy to conceal. This might mean finding one with a shorter barrel length, different grips, or any other features that will make it easier to hide.
Price
While some shooters might be looking to buy a Best 1911 Pistol for less than $500, others might think of spending around $2000. It is important to assess one’s budget before purchasing a new firearm and only look at models that fall within that number. Individuals on a tight budget should know that there are options available even if the price is lowered. Some features, like adjustable sights or different grip options, might be excluded if the consumer can not afford higher-priced models.
Barrel Length
The barrel length of the firearm is another critical factor that you should consider before buying. When it comes to 1911 classic pistols, the standard barrel length is around 5 inches. This makes it easier for shooters to conceal and more accurate overall if they plan to use it for home defense or target practice. The longer the barrel, the harder it will be to conceal and, if not careful, could lead to specific injuries. When it comes down to it, each shooter has different wants and needs when choosing new firearms like Best 1911 Pistols. They must assess their needs and provide themselves with the first-rate experience that they want. Armed with the information above, shooters should find a model that meets their needs and provides them with all of the features they want.
FAQs
What are the best 1911 pistols?
There are many notable models to consider, but some of the most noteworthy brands include Sig Sauer, Springfield Armory, Kimber, Ruger, Taurus, and Walther. The top-performing products usually come with wood grips or polymer grips that feel comfortable in the hands, adjustable sights; shorter barrel lengths; and competitive prices.
What are the benefits of 1911 pistols?
Some benefits include ease of use, competitive prices, and overall accuracy. Best 1911 pistols are excellent products for those who want to learn how to shoot a pistol without sacrificing accuracy or time spent practicing target shooting.
What are some cons of 1911 pistols?
Some of the cons include high prices, which may not be within the budget of every consumer. In addition, some shooters may find that models with a longer barrel length are more difficult to conceal and lead to specific injuries.
How to take care of your 1911 pistols?
To take care of one’s pistols, it is essential to make sure they are always cleaned and maintained after each use. This will prevent them from being damaged or broken down over time.
Conclusion
We hope our in-depth review of the best 1911 pistols has helped you make an informed decision about which one is right for your needs. When choosing a pistol, many factors go into making this choice. Our goal with this article was to provide some insight into what makes these guns tremendous and help answer any questions or concerns you might have had during your search process. We’ve broken down each gun’s pros and cons to help you decide which one is right for your needs. So whether it’s features or comfort that are most important to you, we have what you need at the lowest price possible. We hope this article has helped and if you want to read more, feel free to browse our other gun reviews. Thank you for visiting our blog. Please share this article with others if you enjoyed it or found it helpful.
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