Created by John Browning (a gunsmith and firearms designer in the late 1800s, early 1900s) the 1911 handgun has withheld the changing of the times as one of the most sought-after handguns still today. Used by the United States military for decades, the firearm has proven to be tough, reliable and well, simply beautiful.
Sometimes called the “Lord’s caliber,” the .45 was known to have tremendous “stopping power.” Designed by several different companies from several companies, the gun ranges anywhere from a few hundred dollars up into the thousands.
What do I like best about the 1911 you ask (pretend you did, even if you didn’t ask)? The large frame, multiple caliber options and total balance. Reliability and accuracy are also adjectives I’d say adequately describes a 1911. I read that the original 1911 Colt fired over 600 rounds during the “test” program, dunked in water, cleaned, and oiled every 1000 rounds without any issues regarding performance.
Regarding maintenance, no tools are required to strip it down to its components. While some complain the “newer” 1911 isn’t as reliable as the originals, personally I’ve had zero issues with any of mine. I own several Springfield A-1s, a few Colts (probably my favorite), Rock Island, Kimber, Glocks and a Para Ordnance. I have a steel silhouette at my property where I can often be found practicing or better yet, relieving stress after a stressful day at work. I’d suggest that of all the handguns I own I’m most proficient with a 1911. While too large for my everyday carry, it’s always a good time to simply fire some brass down the range.
Jeff Cooper, a United States Marine and known as the creator of the “modern technique” of handgun shooting once said “The 1911 pistol remains the service pistol of choice in the eyes of those who understand the problem. Back when we audited the FBI academy in 1947, I was told that I ought not to use my pistol in their training problem because it was fair. Maybe the first thing one should demand of his sidearm is that it be unfair.” I couldn’t have said it any better.
Until next time, Okie friends. . .
