The military and law enforcement are moving away from the brick that this thing is. They have moved to double stack (9 mm, 40, etc.). I mean, you can get the 1911 in just about every caliber. I’m not trying to stir up anybody’s criticism, but a brick is a brick.

If you’ve ever trained for an extended period with a 1911, the 45 APC is not the most controllable caliber. You might be on target with that first round. Still, if you’re ever put under pressure or have some adrenaline pumping after that kick, the second, third, and fourth will definitely not be on target for the average Joe.

We can also touch on the average Joe with the muffin top, like me, who definitely cannot conceal this. I’m not even going to speak to you about being comfortable.

Let’s Go Over The Top 5 Advantages of The 1911

Proven Reliability

One of the key factors contributing to the enduring popularity of the 1911 is its legendary reliability. The 1911 has consistently demonstrated exceptional performance throughout its long history, even in the harshest conditions.

Timeless Design and Ergonomics

The design of the 1911 remains remarkably relevant even in the face of modern advancements in firearm technology. Its slim profile, natural grip angle, and intuitive controls continue to set a standard for handgun ergonomics.

Caliber Versatility

The 1911’s design allows for chambering in various calibers, from the original .45 ACP to 9mm, .40 S&W, and even 10mm Auto. Some manufacturers, like Stealtharms, even make one that uses a Glock magazine.

Cultural and Historical Significance

The Colt 1911 has played a crucial role in numerous historical conflicts, from World War I to the present day. The handgun was issued to the US Armed Forces from 1911 to 1985. The Barreta M9 replaced it because NATO wanted a more widely used round, and the Barreta was a 9mm.

Despite its age, the 1911 continues to impress with its inherent accuracy. Its fixed barrel design and crisp trigger break allow for precise shot placement.

In a rapidly evolving world of firearms technology, the enduring relevance of the Classic 1911 is a testament to its timeless design, reliability, and cultural significance.

My Personal Opinion On The 1911

Everything I’ve said has been for this: I would never carry this gun for concealed carry, and it’s not going to be by my bedside at night. I’m definitely not going to use it for much of anything else.

We called it the grill gun at Christiansen Arms because it stays in the pelican case. When your friends and family come over, and you’re cooking out, and everybody’s having a great time, that’s what you pull out. You open up that pelican case and say, hey, look at this, and they’re all like the 1911, WOW.

It’s funny how time changes everything. Back in the early 90’s, I purchased my first Glock in Hawaii. Remember Die Hard 2. No one had them, and they all said a plastic gun would never be successful.

Like the BlackBerry and the iPhone, Glocks work wonderfully. But they’re all the same. Is that a good thing about Glock?

It never changes, kind of like hamburgers at McDonald’s. They are kind of the same wherever you go. I still have a few Glocks but have moved on to my SIG M17, SIG 365X, SIG P365, and my wife’s 365SAS.

My SIG P365 has a gas pedal and a 12+1 magazine. The Glock 26 is a G4 with a 12+1 magazine, which is nice for a little longer grip.

In my opinion, if you have never tried a gas pedal, the gas pedal is the way to go. If you’re trying to keep a smaller firearm under control, you have a much smoother and more controlled trigger pull. That thing was a game-changer for me. I have one on all my firearms. This is my M-17 with a Surefire x300 weapons-mounted light and gas pedal by Go Gun USA.

The newer SIG P365, like the SIG P320, the SIG M-17, and all the P365’s, are completely modular with the new design of their trigger system. Since the trigger is the serialized piece, you can customize the grip slide, etc., to whatever fits your hand, so a smaller firearm like the P365 can fit more comfortably for each shooter. It’s not one and done.

I asked for some thoughts on LinkedIn, and here’s what some people had to say.

Jason Smith, “While I have run several Glock 19/17/22/26, they are the same to me except for size, and the 22 is a different caliber. I carried the 26 for several years until I started carrying the performance center shields and a compact Canik. I’ve had a 365 Sig that I liked a lot, but if I wanted to compare the Glock 26, say, with a far less expensive gun that shot just as good or even better, in my opinion, would be the $220 price point Taurus G2C it has run circles around my G-26. I have two professional training Glock 17’s, which both do the job, but I think there are pistols out there that are far better in price and more pleasing to the eye than the Glock.”

Mike Nelson out of Texas, “I have two Glocks. I also have two Beretta model 92 FS pistols…one blued, one stainless. And let’s not forget the Colt Govt Mark IV .380 and S&W .38 snub nose. But most importantly, I have two M1911A1s from the Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP). Which do I carry? Who cares. I’ll keep the criminals guessing. Just know that I shoot nice center-mass groups with each.”

Would you use a hammer or a sharp knife to get the job done? Remember to know your laws, get some training, and always be vigilant.

I’m curious to know your opinion?