Commemorative 1911 Guns

The 100th Anniversary of the 1911

2011 is the centennial anniversary of the classic 1911 pistol. This firearm is one of the most popular single-action, semi-automatic pistols in the United States. A gun that changed the industry and became an American firearm legend. The history of the name is simple enough - 1911 was the year John M. Browning finalized the design for Colt’s manufacturing. Widely known as the M1911 (Model 1911), the pistol uses the short recoil principle in its basic design. It has been a power house in the last 100 years used by the U.S. Armed Forces from World War I to the Vietnam War. Until the Beretta M9 replaced the M1911 in 1985 it served as the primary standard handgun for the United States.

This .45 ACP centerfire pistol replaced the revolvers of the late 1800s and began the auto pistol revolution. Single-action revolvers were unsuitable for the rigors of modern warfare particularly in the terms of stopping power. As 1910 drew to a close John Browning’s design was put to the test as over 6,000 rounds were fired from the single pistol over the course of two days. The Colt gun passed with no reported malfunctions and was adopted by the Army on March 29, 1911.

The first World War led to small external modifications that were completed in 1924 bringing about a new classification - the M1911A1. The changes are so slight that it can be difficult to differentiate between the two versions. Some of the changes included a shorter trigger, cutouts in the frames behind the trigger, longer safety grip to prevent hammer bite, wider front sights, simplified grip checkering, an arched mainspring housing and a shorter spur on the hammer.

With The M1911 design, the axis of the bore sits lower to the hand than many of the more modern guns it competes with. Minimizing the distance to the grip gives the shooter more leverage. This limits muzzle rise in rapid fire allowing the shooter to get back on the target for faster shots. This pistol is a powerhouse firearm in a slender design that is popular not only with the military but with self defense and competition. Most 1911s have beavertail grip safeties to shield the shooters hand.

The M1911 comes in different calibers including 9mm and even .22 LR. There is no handgun on the market so thoroughly customizable as the M1911. With so many after market components you can get a reliable gun with outstanding accuracy. The slimness of the pistol makes it comfortable for self defense. The M1911 is normally carried with a round in the chamber “cocked and locked.” The ergonomic frame mounted safety works in quick draw situations.

The M1911 is a firearm legend and to commemorate the 100^th anniversary that are many special editions this year as well as some new designs at the entry level price point. I can’t wait to try out some of these models. Check out what’s on the horizon for the anniversary year…..

Springfield Armory is unveiling the RO for 2011. This is an entry level pistol for competition made to the same specifications as their Trophy Match and TRP models. With the affordable price, you can purchase now and “upgrade” later. Coming in at 40 ounces it has a 5” stainless steel match grade barrel. The trigger pull is a heavy 5 -6 lbs with a standard guide rod recoil system. If you want the quality of a Springfield 1911 at a more affordable price point, check out the RO (Range Officer) version in .45 ACP.

Kahr Arms announced at SHOT Show the release of a 100^th Anniversary 1911 Edition from Auto-Ordnance. The special edition is a .45 caliber class M1911 style in .45 ACP. A special engraving on the slide reads, “ 1911 .45 ACP, 1911-2011, 100 Years.” This 1911 weighs 39 oz. and has an overall length of 8.5”. The slide is from solid barstock and the frame from steel. Features include a thumb safety, grip safety and firing block pin. The rear sights are adjustable and it has traditional checkered grips. MSRP for this edition is around $700.

Looking for a .22LR model of the 1911? Try the Browning 1911 .22 LR auto loading pistol. It is almost an exact replica just on a smaller scale. For the 100^th anniversary you will receive a certificate as well a commemorative leather pistol case. Proudly made in the USA, the frame and slide are made from aluminum alloy in a matte blued finish. The barrel is stainless steel. Complete with a 10 round magazine, the model has a single action trigger and fixed sights. This lightweight gun weighs just 15 ½ oz with a 4 ½” barrel.

The R1 by Remington is another version I can’t wait to get my hands on at the range. Remington is the country’s oldest gun maker and known for their long guns. The R1 is their first semi-auto pistol since the 1920s. The R1 is a .45 ACP style M1911 that is all steel. Traditional M1911 features such as a seven round magazine and 5” barrel compliment this entry level price point offering from Remington. This gun promises very good accuracy and reliability for about $700.

In a year filled with limited editions and new offerings, 2011 promises to be more than just an anniversary celebration. New people will discover a M1911 for the first time. Others will find an old friend as progressed from the past with new innovations and designs.