The question is, is the 1911 an ancient artifact that needs to ride off into the sunset?
If you ask me, there are many factors to analyze on this pistol to answer that question.
However, the design has proven itself to be quite adaptable to a wide range of hand sizes.
Is the 1911 pistol past its prime, or comfortably settling into its second century of service? Read on to find out the author’s opinion.
Shortly after World War I, veterans were polled on how their issued weapons had worked.
This resulted in the much shorter trigger (and the niches in the frame behind the trigger).
These changes (along with several others), would become distinguishing characteristics of what would become the 1911-A1.
The relatively thin silhouette of a Springfield 1911 pistol is seen here in comparison to the company’s XD in .45. Photo: Gail Pepin
Also, the short trigger is ideal for petite females and smaller-statured males with proportionally shorter fingers.
As an accompanying photo shows, even a full-size 1911 rides very tight to the body.
Yes, an all-steel 1911 is heavy.
The slim grip also ensures ease of gripping the pistol, providing enviable controllability.
This is a biggie in the 1911s popularity.
Simple Is …
1911 pistols in .45 ACP, like this Springfield TGO-II, can be remarkably accurate. This group was shot with Federal HST ammunition. Photo: Gail Pepin
The 1911 pistols short, easy trigger pull is a cardinal selling point.
The sliding (instead of pivoting) trigger seems less prone to abuse by frisky trigger fingers.
The reset for the next shot is also pretty quick.
The author has found 1911 pistols chambered for the .45 ACP cartridge extremely controllable. This one is a TGO-II. Photo: Gail Pepin
We mentioned earlier that many champion shooters use .45 1911s in the centerfire events of bullseye shooting.
Thats not because theyre too cheap to buy a .32, .38 or 9mm.
Safe Choices
The 1911s thumb safety is more a feature than a bug.
The Garrison 1911 from Springfield Armory combines classic 1911 lines and styling with subtle but significant upgrades and enhancements.
Custom and practice have made cocked and locked (a/k/a Condition One) mandatory with the 1911 pistol.
This proprietary nature to the user feature is a proven lifesaver.
Familiar Feel
Habituation gets a vote.
New 1911 variants like the Springfield Armory Emissary help breathe new life into the design with distinctive styling and features.
taught them to use the pistol once known as the GI .45 auto.
Additionally, that iconic thing is real.
This creates confidence, and confidence intertwines inextricably with competence.
Pistols in .45 are shootable. The author shot this timed 60-shot group with the Springfield Range Officer and full power .45 hardball. Photo: Gail Pepin
Now, some people have not had this same good experience.
Conclusion
Some of these factors come together better for some users than for others.
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