Imagine being one of those legendary people like John Browning who invented something that is still relevant over a century later. Makes you wonder how people like that became that way. It's like the stars aligned to give one person the intelligence, and the motivation, self-esteem, and the work ethic, and everything else required to not only think about being legendary, but actually doing it. There are a lot of really smart people in the world that are either wasting their talents, or not realizing them at all.

The movie "The Wild Bunch " has all my favorite firearms. Like the knucklehead engine, P51 Mustang and a hand rolled cigar the 1911 always makes you feel like you just smacked a WW2 Pinup on the ass.

The 1911 is my favorite hand gun. It was my service pistol when I served in the Army and I’ve owned one ever since. As you might surmise, I’m fond of the M16 and AR15 style weapons as well.

My wife, who is from Poland, had never fired a handgun until we visited my family in the US. I took her out and she got to shoot everything from a Single Action Army to the latest and greatest pistols out there. Her best groups were with a 1911 in .45ACP. Her second best groups were with a 1911 in .38 Super. Not only did she shoot the best with the 1911 she preferred the shooting experience of the 1911, even over 9mm pistols. She claimed that the .45ACP 1911 had a “less harsh” recoil than my 9mm pistols. Interestingly, her least favorite pistol to shoot was a PPK in .380. She thought the .380 was the most unpleasant recoil of any of the pistols she shot. She shot surprisingly well with the 1911s and a S&W model 10 (in single action), but her groups really opened up with some modern striker fired pistols. If you ask her which pistol she’d grab if she had to defend herself, she wouldn’t even hesitate to say a 1911 in .45 ACP or .38 Super.

I've owned and experimented with a variety of pistols from revolvers to SA/DA autos to Tupperware varieties. Was big into Glocks until I finally admitted to myself at least that I hated the things. I was in the Army "back in the day" when the 1911 was still the issued sidearm and that's what I grew up on. I finally got rid of my other pistols and have owned only 1911s for years now. My first 1911 was a Remington mil-spec, then I got into Springfields and even bought one of those SDS WWII reproductions you had there- a steal and a quality piece. I carry the 1911 (Range Officer Compact 45acp) because its light and I shoot it very well. I'm 65 and not living out some "operator" fantasy where I need a high-speed high-capacity block of plastic. For defensive purposes I know I will hit the threat exactly where I mean to and it will be a disabling shot, if there's more than one threat the next one gets the same treatment. That's all that matters to me. As an added bonus, yes they handle and hold like a dream and are a joy to shoot.

The 1911 was the first hand gun I've ever shot. Stationed in Alaska, and never shot a hand gun before. I almost smack my head with it but I never shyed away from it. Always loved it!

Love or hate the design, you have to appreciate the contributions that stood apart in the early 20th century, the tilting barrel, grip angle, and placement of the mag release and slide stop/release are traits found on almost all current handguns.

couple of years ago I was at the range and a group of five young men arrived. one of them had just put an AR together. it wouldn't cycle reliably. he had me look at the gun and I noticed it was dry. we oiled it well and it ran perfectly. I explained they run better "wet". Then they started getting ready to shoot their pistols. they were all carrying 1911s in leather holsters. Ol slabslides ain't going extinct any time soon. there are better handguns for police and military forces but for enthusiast they will always have a place.

As a 1911 owner for many years and yes, in 45acp, I can honestly say that the 1911 is a platform (Like the AR Riffle) that can be customized to the aesthetical likings & ergonomics of the operator. Multicaliber platform 22Lr, 380acp, 9mm, 40SW, 45acp, 45 Super, 10mm.....Milti-grip options, sights, trigger lengths & shapes , main spring housings shape, frame shapes & Materials, Magazine Wells, Slide shapes, multi-finishes available......Single stack magazines, double-stack magazines, different barrel bushings or even bushingless.........you name it....the 1911 platform will continue to evolve over and over again.

I love my 1911 I keep it in my truck always.. and of course served our country well!

Love the 1911. The grip size, ergonomics and trigger just fit my smaller but thicker hands. It also helps that both my grandfathers carried them in the war.

Absolutely love the 1911. So much to appreciate. Grip angle is right for me, slim profile is easy conceal, the trigger has in my opinion, no equal (not even close). But the thing I love the most is how natural presentation is for me. Just naturally on target - all of which translates to hits on target, and that’s the bottom line for any pistol shooter. Jumped into the DS 1911 market a few years back with a Wilson X9, and found that I shoot it better than any else I’ve ever tried. Its been my daily carry now for about 4 1/2 years. Long live the 1911, and praise and respect for John Moses Browning!

RIA has a double-stacked 10mm. They have had it out for years.

I love my 1911. Bought a “cheap” Rock Island 1911 full size, for my first ever semiauto. Shoots like a dream and easy to disassemble and clean. My only “meh” is the grip safety. Not a fan of it. But man do I love every aspect after that. Lighter than my revolver (.357 magnum) and still easy on recoil. Cannot dote on the 1911 trigger enough. Absolute butter.

Rock Island Armory makes a double stack 1911 chambered in 10mm. I got to dry fire one at a gun shop and in terms of trigger and the controls it felt pretty solid. For the money it's definitely worth looking into, and I don't know of any other handgun that holds 16 +1 rounds of 10mm.

The 45 will shoot a wide variety of loads from soft target to 230 ball, and hot loads in between. Never thought of any as punishing

The M1911 is the type of gun that keeps evolving I don’t think John M. Browning would’ve thought that his creation would be evolving over the years.

I currently own four 1911’s. Each are in a different chambering. For self defense I usually carry a Browning 1911 380. It is adequate for self defense but the important thing is that I can shoot it very accurately. Accuracy has been the main reason why I prefer the 1911 over other models of handguns.

20:35 Rock Island already offers double-stack 10mm 1911s for at least 5 years already ... 16+1 rounds. They come with threaded barrel or no threaded barrel for around $700. But, they are hard to find since they keep getting sold out.

The 1911 is my all time favorite firearm, not saying it’s the best by any means but I don’t understand the hate they get.

The best bang for the buck is a springfield mil spec. Thay are accurate and reliable after broke in..

The 1911 is still cool and deadly despite the popularity of 'wonder nine' pistols

My Grandfather was in Army Air Corps durring WW2 and Korea, he was often deligated to do patrols and other protective details durring his time when the aircraft was serviced. Due to his stature he carried a Browning Automatic Rifle, however the 20 round capacity was noted to be trouble so field armorers learned to adapt two magazines into one and soldiers learned to tape the two together (wasnt formally adopted, my gramps carried one set taped together for a quick reload and exchange of heavy support fire), when he "Ran out of ammo" he would pull his 1911s and wait for an ammo bearer to come. He never spoke of his time in the service due to the long list of horrors he saw and wished he could forget. He used the 1911s plenty of times in defense of himself and unit members. Durring the Guada Canal Campeign he was part of the B-25 landing force for "Henderson Fields" just after the metal strip was applied. He was switched to ground detail and fought in defense of the field till US forces completely gained control of the area. several times his unit was over run to the point that even with withering point blank fire from US Marines and supporting forces the enemy still broke into there lines, the 1911s he had were scratched up from knife hits, the trigger wells were some what bent (lord knows why), and with all this his time in the service accumulated him an award for 35 hand to hand kills confirmed which attested him with his nose being 1 inch shorter then it was when he enlisted (was broken 14 times)! Those guns were confiscated when he was returned state side cause he was deemed a bit too dangerous with such firepower let alone his bare hands. Those pistols took a beating and with basic maintnance served him well. Generally the Browning designs are all rugged and ment to last and take a beating with the owner thick or thin. You treat it with propper care, tune it according to your needs, and the gun will run like a bear always as a tool for the job at hand. I personally hope to try one of the classic WW2 1911s out to see what kind of an animal was being fired by my Grandfather. I'm sure there are plenty of people with simmilar reasons if there watching this video in particular. On a seperate note I'd love to see you cover .45 as a pistol caliber carbine round. Most people choose 9mm, but I rarely see anything else, is there a particular reason for this I'm not understanding? I understand a low velocity can be difficult but a trained shooter can work with almost anything cause at the end of the day, the optics and features are nothing but math to calculate and that's our job, not the gun itself. (guns just set the limitations while ammo sets the boundaries, as far as I know, this is a basic rule to understand in this and is often either overlooked or glossed over cause its a natural understanding for a gun owner)

I bought one when i joined the Army, the unit switched to the Beretta recently when I joined. I was issued a 1911 when the unit deployed and I was stuck on rear D for desert storm because I wasnt MOS Q yet. I finished MP school and someone was hurt downrange so I rotated in and was issued an M9. I transferred to CID when I aged to allow it (Had to be 24yo) did that for a while and carried an M11. Transitioned out during RIF. I came back in as a Counter intel Agent and deployed 4 times. The last time I asked if I could carry something larger because the m11 was small. I was embedded with a JTF and Marines specifically, I asked for a 1911 and was issued one. The Luger was proven to be a descendant of the Browning design and Browing took Luger to court over it. Browning invented the toggle link design and demonstrated it publicly. Luger admitted to being there and was photographed next to the demonstration signs. Its in the Book "The Guns of John Moses Browning, The remarkable story of the inventor who changed the world."

I confess that I have a Philippines 1911. I shot it until the recoil spring needed changing. At the time I could not afford a high end 1911. By the time (years later) that shot the recoil spring out of tolerance, I was making more money. I had it gutted by an old 1911 gunsmith (only 1911 did he work). Had all the springs changed out with Wilson combat parts. Custom fit bushing , trigger , hammer, barrel, safety, grip safety, etc. The only thing that remains original is the slide and frame. I wanted to see what could be done. It is extremely accurate.

My groups tighten up when the Marines went from the .45 to the 9mm Beretta. Probably due to the old Colt .45 I had. It would rattle when shaken empty. Tolerances were long gone by the time I got it.

My 4'10 wife and 5'4 daughter both shoot 45 and 10mm with no problems. In our family, we love our 1911s. They just feel perfect in everyone's hands here. From my wife's little baby hands, to my XXXL size glove hands. Of all the guns I have, it's become my favorite platform to shoot. As far as capacity goes when carrying, just carry a few extra mags. Very few of us regular citizens will ever have to reload a mag in a self defense situation unless the mag in the gun fails, but there's a slim chance so carry a few extra.

I CCW a TRP Operator 10mm with a Trijicon RMR and Viridian Gen 3 green laser/light/camera combo everyday and I absolutely love it! I carried Glocks for years in professional and personal life and swore by them, that is until somebody handed me a 1911 and I have never looked back. Everybody wants to argue about the mag capacity and I won't bother adding to it. All I have to say is that I have NEVER felt underarmed carrying my pistol with a 10 round Cobra mag one in chamber with a couple back up mags. Love it and I will never ever go back to plastic guns. Love your videos MAC, keepem coming!

The 1911 was the second pistol I fell in love with after the Beretta 92F, back in 1990 at the age of 15. Since then, it’s been a love-hate relationship in terms of reliable vs. unreliable specimens; hate for my “90s Edition” (pre-bankruptcy) Springfield, Charles Daly, and Colt Series 70 Combat Commander for being jam-prone; love for my post-bankruptcy (purchased in 2003) Springfield stainless Mil-Spec and genuine WWI-era (made in November 1918) Colt M1911 for being reliable and delightfully accurate.

With all things equal, ultimately those who shy away from 1911's only do so for one reason; the fear of a single stack.

I will always keep a 1911 in my collection just because I love how they shoot. Currently have a Kimber Eclipse Custom II in 10mm. Been solid so far but Kimber really hurt their reputation awhile back so it won't be a carry piece until I shoot it more.

As a Retired Army Guy! When I Joined in 1975 the M1911 was the side arm of the U'S' Army(Military). I have shot many other pistols before and after the M1911A1 and I always return to a M1911A1!! I currently own 3! Love the damn things! The first time I held one(1975) I fell immediately in love with the way it felt in my hand! Have many hand Guns, but for Home defense and Range fun it will always be the M1911A1 in 45 Acp!

Staccato, back when they were still STI, made a pretty cool 10mm named the “Perfect 10” as well as one of the regular DS models in 10mm. I know that Triarc still makes double stack 1911s in 10mm as does Cosaint Arms. There are probably a few other custom shops that will make a double stack 1911 in 10mm. With Springfield jumping into the 1911 double stack market I would love to see them offer something in 10mm because their prices are more accessible to the common gun buyer. The STI/Staccato 10mm magazines are available and with Duramag making the 9mm mags for the Prodigy it shouldn’t be hard for them to come out with a 10mm version as well.

The Glock-19 is my carry pistol. I'm considering buying a 1911 and found this to be an informative conversation. Thanks!

Got nothing against 'tactical plastic' at all. But my heart is in the craftsmanship of 'wood&steel'. And i just love the Dan Wesson Bruin :-)

Glock perfection GEN one, perfection GEN two, perfection GEN three, perfection GEN four, perfection GEN five, John Browning perfection 1911 GEN one, nailed it! Mic drop!

The new double stack 9mm Springfield Armory 1911 is a very enticing option for someone curious about getting into the 1911 world.

I hope that DD puts the H9 back into production. I have one and really like it.

Love 1911 and (apart from the ridiculous price) I'd have an M45 in a heart beat... when I met my wife I introduced her to the world of shooting and now she carries everyday... when we stated her pistol shooting (Glock 42, 43 and 19) she shot more like a 12g than a SA pistol. Then I got her a 1911... improved dramatically...

As long as bullets are still the primary method of inflicting bodily harm to the enemy, the 1911 will be relevant.

The very first center fire pistol I ever shot was a Colt 1911 that belonged to a buddy. My first shot was a bulls eye at 15 yards at an indoor range. That gun just fit right. I was surprised how it settled in my average size hands, pointed naturally and the recoil was a lot lighter than I expected. John Browning was a true genius.

1911's are just cool, usually have awesome triggers, and are easy to shoot accurately. Doesn't bother me that capacity is 7, 8, or 10 rounds in a single stack 45ACP. I love shooting the .45ACP out of a 1911, and if I carried one, I could easily carry extra mags, although I probably wouldn't need it. A thought... Do you need a lot of capacity, when accuracy comes so easy? Love 1911's.

My only gripe is we haven't figured out how to make it cheaper considering companies have been making it for over one hundred years

I was always a Beretta m9 guy myself, then I shot a staccato c and fell in love, now I have 2 rock islands a 9 and a 45 and my staccato. It's a great shooting platform.

I used to be a 1911 hater because the design was dated and it only held 8-9 rounds, but then i got one in hand and i shot it and fell in love the 1911 is my favorite pistol I own.

I have 6 different 1911s. Some military issue(WWI,WWII era, m45a1 decommissioned) and some modern ones. My favorite gun to shoot and I’m 28. My state has a 10 round limit so kinda draws me to it more. Colt CCU 1911 with a sure fire x300ub, 10 round Wilson mag with hornady critical duty is my bedside gun. I still like the beretta 92 series better.

For her college graduation I gave my daughter a Cajunized CZ 75 SP01. The gun is gorgeous and shoots great. She likes it but still insists on shooting her Springfield Armory Range Officer with 185 grain cartridges. My EDC is an Ed Brown Kobra Carry(Commander style). The trigger is superb. Two weeks ago even with the safeties I was able to score a ten yard precision shot from the draw in under two seconds. Dont ask me to do it again, though. Lol. I use the EB as my church security detail gun. I got an EB for the daughter for her law school graduation. We love the 1911.

1911 triggers 🥰🥰 and they are very comfortable to carry if you can get past the weight. Their slim design hugs the hips, great carry in leather.

My buddy had an RIA 1911 he had some work done to it.. I shot that thing better than any other handgun... shooting quarters at 20 yards multiple times! I don't own a 1911 but they are pretty cool guns...

I have carried a number of 1911 pistols over the last three decades. In fact, my Kimber Tactical Pro II, which I have completely gone through and customized, was my concealed carry pistol for 20 years, until more recently I switched to a Glock gen 5 FS with a Streamlight TLR7.

My dad is a Vietnam vet. Two tours. He carried a 1911. A Remington Rand. He smuggled that gun home with him and I grew up shooting it. It’s still his home defense gun to this day. So when it comes to 1911’s I like the original mil spec guns more than the newer modern versions.

I carried a 1911 for years. Loved it because it was not only an American classic, but because it has an incredibly slim profile that lends itself to concealability really well. A year or two ago I switched it out for a CZ-97 on my permit. The CZ-97 is a phenomenal gun. Pleasant to shoot, accurate, reliable, but it is also much bigger and heavier. I almost never carry the thing and would like to switch back to the 1911. Of all the handguns I own, something about the 1911 in particular just feels right in the hand.

I agree with you that the 1911 isn’t going away. I love 1911s. I own six and a Staccato C2. My 10 year old Les Baer Classic shoots as accurately as my C2 and my Ruger is not far behind. That was a great discussion about my favorite handguns.

There's something I don't understand. In 1911 they developed this trigger. It's by far the best trigger of any pistol at the time it was made, and that's still true today. So then, why aren't all triggers 1911 triggers? I don't understand. It boggles my mind. If a superior design has been around for over 100 years, why haven't we adopted this trigger in all guns?

I hated shooting my first Colt Government model for the first 19 years I owned it. The recoil bothered me so much. Then when I got my CCW permit and had to practice with it much and often. Shortly thereafter manage fall in love with it. Years later I still carry a 1911 when I'm not at work or sleeping. I still practice much and often.

My ww2 era Ithaca 1911A1 was modified by a reputable local custom shop. It was upgraded before I purchased it. It has ran perfect for years, never malfunctioned, even with wadcutters. Just a easy gun to shoot.

The 1911, for me, is the last of the old world standard of firearms design. Things have to be precise and many of it’s components hand made to make sure it’s operation is sound. Love the craftsmanship John Browning put into this pistol. I truly do love how far we have come in firearms design in the over hundred years since, but the 1911 is still in many ways timeless. As a wise old man once said: “An Elegant weapon….from a more civilized age”.

The last time I shot a 1911 was well over 10 years ago. Back then, I thought they fit my hands pretty well. Will have to hold one again to make sure that is still true, probably is. You can get "extended" single stack magazines that hold 10 rounds. Wouldn't mind also trying one in .380 but that might be too small.

I bought my Para P12 new in the 90's. I don't have large hands and the Para's just fit, conceal well, and I shoot them well. The bluing ain't great but it hasn't rusted because I take care of it. Factory trigger is outstanding and I hit what I aim at with double taps tight on target at 10 yds all day long. Biggest plus for me is being able to point it at my full length mirror and seeing a 230 grain Hydra-shock looking back at me which always puts a big smile on my face and imaging the motivation it inspires to run the other way vs the slight loss in fps of a shorter barrel...Well, it's my preferred carry option that I trust my life to. The skill I have honed using it over the years of shooting it along with the 99.9999% reliability of it going bang with the right ammo, never has let me down...EVER, so what else is there! Now I have two just in case. Two is one and one could well be none. (Clint Smith). Best iteration of John Moses Browning's genius of KISS...Keep It Simple Stu... Always feel I can use it well enough to get to my long gun if required. Never felt under gunned. Shooting stats reveal that to stop an assault is pretty much 2.5 well placed shots in any caliber (over .25), so shoot what works for you. Anything else is just a sales pitch for your money.

The 1911 will forever be my favorite. I sold my Colt 1911 to my Pops because he loved it so much and I bought my Staccato 2011. As far as the Sig X-10, I recently bought one, only had one issue with it. The spring edge pushed out over the end of the guide rod and got stuck in the guide hole of the slide. Only happened once so far, other than that, it's been an awesome firearm.

I think that’s the problem… hand fitting may be necessary. Yes it’s an excellent result, but it struggles to compete with modern designs that don’t require as much attention to be successful / reliable / capable. Not that there aren’t 1911s that are awesome… but they’re more niche than mass market. And through no fault of their own. We’d be failing as humanity if we couldn’t create something better after 110yrs.

My dad has a stainless steel colt government model 1911 he got back in the 80s or early 90s but I love that pistol it is an extremely high quality pistol I've never even seen another one that is like it

The 1911 is a design that has aged incredibly well. Certainly, there are those who could make valid arguments for more modern designs that are lighter, and hold more ammunition. But, for those who understand that the ability to quickly and accurately place bullets right where you want them is key, the 1911 has no peers. It is a pistol that can be used with precision, under stress, and when properly built it does so with a degree of reliability that can be counted on provided that the user does their part in properly maintaining the gun. The 1911 is not the pistol of a novice. It is not something that you load, holster and forget about until someday when you might need it. It requires periodic lubrication, and proper cleaning after use. For those willing to invest the time and effort though, it is a weapon that will do everything reasonably asked of it and do it better than most.

While I was overseas from June 09 to June 10, there were two things that I saved my money for so I could purchase them when I got home. 1. Mustang cobra. 2. A quality 1911. I bought the exact 1911 referenced in this video. A Springfield Armory TRP Operator. I love it and it's never failed me anytime I've pulled the trigger. To this very day, it's the first one I'll reach for when something goes bump in the night. But the equipped surefire x300 also helps to make that choice easier. P.s. bought it from Blythes with Kyle's very appreciated knowledge and guidance. 👍

1911 is my FAVORITE handgun period. I have 2 colts and 1 Wilson Combat in production now. The 1st pistol i bought was a 1943 Walther P38. The SECOND PISTOL i bought was a series 80 Colt. I do carry glocks JUST BECAUSE, even a g20. BUT... nothing... NOTHING compares to a 1911 in shootability. NOTHING.

I like the Springfield 1911 Milspec, if you’re looking for a budget gun with classic design. The slide and frame are forged. My shoots pretty good, but they’re definitely is a spectrum of quality. I’ve shot a different one that didn’t shoot good

I agree about the 1911 ergonomics, and I feel the same way when I pick up a pre-64 Winchester rifle. It just feels “right”.

You laid out the reasons why I still love my 1911 very well. Ergonomics, trigger, accuracy, and nostalgia. 1911's maybe just ask a little more attention from the end user. If you put in that effort and attention however the experience is worth it. I liken it to the experience I've had owning a Ducati motorcycle, or that other people have with classic cars. In the current state of our world finding something with character that engages your soul is a valuable thing.

The 1911 basically was the first modern pistol. It's action is the template for all your Sigs H&Ks and even Glocks. The 1911 has the advantage of being thin with a great for most hand sizes grips which helps it's accuracy. The 45 ACP is a powerful cartridge but has some kick in a polymer frame pistol. The low bore axis and all steel construction of the 1911 really helps tame the recoil of the 45 ACP. There's another reason for the popularity of the 1911. In 10 round limited magazine states like here in Massachusetts the 1911 in 45 is still a great choice for self defense compared to a 9mm Luger pistol that looses its major advantage by only having 10 round magazines. 45 in my opinion is still more effective than 9mm Luger against bad guys.

The one you showed first was the first one I purchased. Didn't want to spend a lot on my first, and this one made by Tisas is very good. About 500 rounds without any malfunctions. I would get it for a range toy or if you want to get introduced into the 1911 world.

Just love it when new or inexperienced shooters rag on the 1911. It's still relevant for a reason.

I’m honestly trying to convince myself to carry one again because I’ve had to sell and let go of plenty of my prized possessions because of financial. One of the only handguns I have left is a 45 specialist and she is the love of my life she protected me from a few poisonous situations out in the brush and I have no problem carrying it on my hip for two consecutive days or more

I would trust my life with any of my 1911’s both 45 & 10MM

From what i see, ALOT of competitors use 1911 platforms.

Just got my first 1911, Kimber Stainless 2, .45 of course. Completely tore it down before i ever fired it. I was fascinated with how it worked. First 50 rounds. flawless.

You know what we call an evolved 1911? A Hi-Power. What do we call an evolved Hi-Power? A CZ-75. The 1911, despite being a completely functional handgun, is long outdated; and this is coming from someone who loves the 1911.

I don't know why people have so much trouble with a 1911? My series 80 Colt never misses a beat! 0 problems.

I've added a couple more 1911's to my want list thanks to this video, lol. Love them even though I haven't carried one in years, I may have to try out that little Alpha Foxtrot model though!

I carry a Glock 19, but my favorite gun to shoot is a 1911. I currently own two. A Full size 5 inch , and a 4 inch compact. I mainly carry my 1911's to the range and BBQ's, only because I wouldn't want to lose them after a defensive use. Glock's are a dime a dozen in the real world. Like many others, my first experience with the 1911 was in the Military, USMC, but even those worn out workhorse pistols proved what an exceptional firearm that design is.

I have no 'religious' preference to any gun. I'll shoot anything the same way I will use any brand of hammer or ratchet, if it's good quality and does the job. Why does every person on KZfaq have such a strong desire to say that it's because of the war record, or because of' fill in the blank'? Rather that just say people have preferences they form. I love the way a 1911 handles and I've never found anyone that didn't like the way they fit their hand or pointed. Not in real life with 64 years of using guns. That said, I carried 1911 until I found other guns had become more practical. As to guns that work, I still shoot single action revolvers, double action revolvers, lever actions, pump guns, single shots. Only KZfaq presenters think you can only like one configuration.

Well, I guess im the odd man out. I love everything about the 1911, except it does not fit, it does not naturally aim, its off to the left, and those that would say practice more, think about that in an emergency situation. I traded in my kimber for a CZ 97b. Natural point of aim for me.

I view classic guns like the 1911 similar to how I view classic cars. It would be nice to have one in the collection. I'd take it out and enjoy it every once in awhile. But I wouldn't daily drive it.

I got out of the Military in 1991, I’d had 44 magnums, 38’s and .22 pistols before that. At 41 years of age I bought my Springfield 1911 A1. It was MilSpec and I shot it better than any of my previous guns. I carried that gun EDC for many years. I loved it, but it was heavy and not easy to conceal in the summertime so I went to Polymer, Striker fired, S&W 9mm for EDC. I carried that for about a year and went back to the 1911. I’m 72 now and for the last 7 years have carried the G19X and then Taurus’s PT111 and and now the Taurus G3C. I’ve bought and sold guns since I was 12, Since I got out of the Military I never sell guns now. I have 2 Gun Safes! The old adage your can’t shoot more than one gun at a time does not apply at my house as I go to the range with the back seat of my truck loaded! My 45 ACP is still near and dear to my heart, I’ve found nothing else as easy and fun to shoot!

Was my first pistol I bought. Learned it in army officers training in 1980. I've been through bad ones, good ones, and great ones. Currently have 2 Les Baers and 1 Ed Brown SF, 1 SA Ronin, and 1 Colt Commander. They rotate nightstand duty loaded with 230 grain +P JHPs. I had one on my hip in LA during the Rodney King Riots. I don't feel outgunned. In fact I felt very comforted with one in my hand. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy steel and thy hollowppints they comfort me. When the world ends, I will have one in my hand. I'm a fan, not a fan boy. I have an FN FNX .45 DA/SA but only because it can be carried and used in condition 1. I also have an HK VP9 cuz I don't like the Glock feel. But ultimately, gimme a full size 1911 and I'll be happy.

Group size is one thing but speed is important by far

My 1911's are ALWAYS the first thing to go when trading for a new/better gun. Never been too fond of the ergonomics or trigger, but mine have at least been functional. IMO nostalgia is one hell of a drug, and it makes people overlook the shortcomings of an 111 year old design that was on its way out in the 30's let alone now.

I’m a bit late to the conversation, but I will talk trash about 1911 because I love the 1911. I have a 1911 that had a 13% failure rate in the first 300 rounds. The issue is that while reliability is getting better, it’s not wholly reliable out of the box and requires significant TLC to make it work properly. From magazine issues to ammo issues to recoil spring and barrel feed issues, a lot of hand fitting is required to make it work great. But, despite all the trash talking I do, I love that trigger. Mine was a 7.3 lb pull in the trigger but it was a nice and crisp clean break. A simple trigger job and it’ll run smooth as butter. TLDR: I talk a lot of trash about the platform because I want it to improve and last for generations to come. That trigger is amazing, and worth it. It’s still around and so many clones are out there for a reason: it’s still a beautiful piece of art well over 100 years later.

I’m a serious 1911 fan. My collection includes every major caliber ever chambered, including 9x23 Win. Mostly Colt’s, but there’s a Para double stack, and an Auto-Ordnance in the pile. I qualified to use a handgun on a club 100 yard rifle range years ago, by putting 10 rounds into a pie plate, with an accurized series 80 Govt. 8 hits was required, but I managed 10, using a Chip McCormick 10 rd mag, seated with my forearms resting on a block of wood. I figured I could probably do it unsupported, but was allowed to use support, so I did. My ex-wife managed 8 hits unsupported with the Para, a P14 Limited. Edited to add I was shooting handloads. I don’t recall what the ex was using.

Considering it is still one of the best selling handgun platforms in existence, I don’t think anyone buys such an argument. Its still excellent. It comes in every material that there is. It had benefited from every advancement in technology in existence. It still dominates the competition sports. A double stack 1911 is still a 1911. A scandium 1911 is as light as you would want it to be. It comes in my nearly every caliber from 22 to 460 Roland. It is thin for caliber. It is easy to shoot well. Every time I lets someone shoot multiple pistols, one of the 1911s is usually their favorite. I just don’t get the modern nonsense. There is nothing not modern about it. It is the evolution of the handgun defined. The takedown isn’t the easiest, but it’s not a big deal. I have a pistol over 100 years old that is striker fired. News flash, it’s not a new thing. My first pistol, outside of the military, that I carried for work was polymer. Yep, that one, as was my first dedicated concealed carry pistol. That was decades ago. There is absolutely nothing new about it. In fact, it is now fallen way behind on too many levels to mention. The world has grown weary of cheap, plastic, striker fired, 9 mm pistols. Talk About boring. They are the new Fudd guns. Metal guns or metal infused pistols are the future. Look around. It’s happening everywhere.

I love the 1911, but if some pundits claim the G19 is "outdated", if you hold the .45 single stack 1911 to the same set of standards, its basically a flintlock. It's all about application and what the user is proficient and comfortable with.

Easy to shoot. I have a Les Baer TRS that I have had about 10 years and have put thousands of rounds through it. It's the best handgun I have ever shot. The other day I was out at a shooting area practicing with the TRS. 2 young guys showed up with a pair of cheap 9mms and a cheap AR with everything added that you can add, and they were both just blowing up dirt clods (they didn't have any targets). I had brought my own target stand and targets and had set it up at 7 yards. I asked them if they would like to try shooting at a target. Set up 4 of the 8" stick on targets and let them shoot one at a time at it with their guns. They had trouble keeping them on the 20x20" cardboard, let alone on any particular target. I showed one of the 9mm guys my Baer. He had never even seen a 1911, let alone shot one. I put a 10 round mag of 200gr LSWC handloads in it and let him shoot it, after showing him the mechanics of the weapon and how to gently pull the trigger straight back. Mine has a clean 3.5# pull. His very first round tagged the 1/2" red center dot. Out of the 10 rounds in the mag, he put nine in the 9 ring or better, 6 in the 10 ring, and 1 flyer that hit more cardboard than target. We were BOTH dumbfounded. Raw beginner with a quality 1911 shooting like that!

A 1911 is like a fine watch. You can get newer, lighter, whatever, but classic, fine-made mechanical pieces will never go away.

Glocks are obsolete but 1911's are the future... Got it.

The problem I see is there are no advantages a 1911 has over the `1980s CZ-75 derived double stack "wonder 9s" We can argue about polymer frames all day, but a CZ-75 is a more practical firearm in every way than a 1911. Period.

Great video, and, about time I must say. I've been a 1911 fan since a teen and I'm way over the hill now and I still love shooting them. You mentioned that you've never shot a 460 Rowland 1911 pistol and I've mentioned often in response to your enthusiasm with the 10mm in a 1911 that the 460 Rowland exceeds the performance of the 10mm and you can create one with certain quality 1911's with just a barrel swap and maybe a comp if you need it. Johnny Rowland sells a great spring system that can eliminate the need for a comp. Mine is the Clark version which uses a comp and fitting the 24# spring can be a challenge for some. My pistol was a standard loaded Springfield and I've never had issues with excessive recoil, muzzle flip, or any issues with ammo, including my own reloads, and performance exceeds the 10mm. My preferred loading is with 185gr bullets but could easily increase to 230 or more and I don't see that in 10mm. I definitely stress that you need a forged 1911 to shoot the 460 Rowland so it isn't suitable on lighter frame/slide versions that aren't forged. Even the Norinco models can be converted as their steel is super tough.

My DE1911U shoots a 3 1/2 inch group at 110 yards. I absolutely love this gun. The trigger is like butter.

Ain’t gonna lie MAC, I’m not a fan of the podcast style videos.

I have a love/hate relationship with the 1911 pistol and I also disagree with the statement that 1911 ergonomics are impeccable. My first centerfire autoloader purchased years ago is a 1911 .45, and it’s a good one. My second one year later, a CZ-75 in .40 S&W, which today is a bit uncommon because it’s cool to hate .40 right now. But that’s all it took, I’ve pretty much never looked back. No grip safety, far more ergonomic grip, reliable double stack magazines, and in the Tanfoglio offerings, some of which are very nice and well made, a wide selection of chamberings. Due to the popularity in competition, the CZ/Tanfoglio pistols have a decent aftermarket. Not to the extent of the 1911 or Glock pistol, but enough to make a gun really suit you. I like 1911’s for what they are, they’re very iconic and definitely have history. So I’ll probably always keep one or two around, but they are definitely not my preferred choice.

At 79 I just got my second Colt 1911 - the first went bye bye around 1965. Now it shares room with a P220. Best of both worlds👍 Great video - thank you!!

Popularity is a circle. That why I have 40sw and 1911 45. I will always have popular gun.