As silly as "pride of ownership" is, I really wish all modern technology manufacturers, from guns to cars to cell phones, understood this and took it more seriously. If I'm going to give a company a grip of my cash, I want the product to be excellent in every way. I understand with planned obsolescence being the rule of the market these days it's not "realistic", but it still matters to me.

I never quite understood the mystique of the 1911 until I shot one, then I immediately got it. I think that the most impressive aspect of the 1911's history is: when John Moses Browning began work on the design that would be adopted in 1911, Wilbur and Orville sold bicycles. Before it left service with the US Army, mankind had walked on the Moon and the Space Shuttle was in service.

A 1911, a mechanical watch, a zippo lighter..there’s something about the solidity and feel of metal in your hands. There’s also something to be said about proven durable time-tested designs. They generally require a bit more upkeep, but they get the job done and become well known trusted companions. I have a Glock and a 1911. I like the way polymer guns slide in and out of Kydex. I like the dependability and magazine capacity of my Glock. But I prefer the weight and feel of the 1911. There’s just something about the presence of a government model 1911. It feels like an extension of your hand and has the smoothest of actions. Aside from that, it’s an American design that served our country faithfully in far off places, and by extension is a symbol of Americas own durability and greatness.

I bought a Remington 1911 for $500. I installed the beaver tail grip, Wilson combat sear, extended slide release, etc. all on my own. I've never worked on a gun prior to this. It's my favorite gun I own, not only is there the history, but also I put my own work into it and the trigger pull, accuracy. It feels amazing to shoot. It's the last gun I'll ever give up

How to get a reliable 1911. 1. Don't buy cheap magazines 2. Buy Chip McCormick,Wilson Combat, Mec-Gar magazines. (Preferably wadcutter feedlips or hybrid feedlips) 3. DON'T BUY CHEAP MAGAZINES Done.

I think the ergonomics of the 1911 deserve a bit more recognition. The thin profile and "1911 grip angle" make for a comfortable gun to handle. I have brought a lot of first time shooters to the range with my collection of different handguns and I've repeatedly seen these new shooters perform well with the 1911 over all of the other modern handguns they try. Of course this is all anecdotal and ergonomics are a very subjective thing, so it is naturally a topic that others may disagree with. I am not afraid to admit that the 1911 is large, heavy, and has poor ammo capacity compared to more modern designs. It is definitely a gun that has limited practical application nowadays, but I can't help but want a really nice one at some point in the future. It's one of my favorites.

I've been shooting 1911's since I got my first one 50 years ago. I think based on that, you've done a pretty decent analysis of why people love them or hate them. As a 1911 lover, it's mostly in my head. Back in the day when I first started with the defense handgun, as you've noted, the "rank and file" pistol was the K-frame revolver with the cops I grew up around. It was pretty much what you were going to be issued if your job came with a gun, and your only way to make it "yours" was going to be fancy grips, or a Magnum chambering like the Model 19 or a Python. Those were great guns, but if you wanted to really stand apart from the crowd you would carry an automatic. For us, that meant a 1911 marked "Colt" and not some Nancy-Boy 9mm. At least that was how we felt about it at the time. To us, anyone could drive a wheelgun. If you studied the 1911, you soon saw its advantages and what you needed to do to one to make it work as a fine combat or target sidearm. We laughed at guys who couldn't make their pistols work, or keep their 1911's lubed, or make their loads function properly. As soon as we got off duty and put away our issued six shooters, we couldn't wait to show our 1911's off. This all started to get silly in the 80's as we could choose to tote a Browning, a Beretta. a SIG, an S&W auto, and the most mysterious of all, a squeze cocking HK. Then came the Glock, the combat handgun designed to float in the bathtub. This was all pretty silly, but there was no doubt that the 1911 in .45 just threw off more attitude. Those who also competed with them still had reasons to cling to them, mostly the trigger, and we smugly told ourselves that 8 rounds was enough. To ne honest, for my life as it is now, 9 shots are probably enough, with a spare mag on my other side. Today I have fewer 1911's than I used to, and mine are made looking prettier than they used to as well. They are what used to be called Barbecue Guns. I love to brag about the groups mine would hold, as if I could still do that now at my age. Most days I'm carrying smallish Tactical Tupperware, and it is usually a 9mm. But when I put on a good 1911 in .45 of course, I can remember when it was the only game in town and I was hot shit with mine. I don't carry a 1911 that much any more but when I do it is a pleasant trip down memory lane. And I figured how to make one work 100% a long time ago, so why not enjoy it? I'll probably be buried with my two-tone Colt. Maybe in a photographer's vest and a bush hat to complete the look. Oops, pants. I'll definitely need pants.

1911's are so aesthetically pleasing that even with their flaws I can't help but love them. They're just too cool

My first time qualifying in the ARMY was with a 1911. Never seen one before then. It was SN 00549. Had no rifling left and the stipling on the grips was gone. Rattled like it was going to blow up, but i qualed expert with it.

I thought that the 1911 was an old man's gun, featured in gangster movies. Then I won one in a raffle, and I loved it! Much easier to shoot accurately than my fighting Tupperware.

For me, the biggest reason for owning one, without a doubt, was the history. I couldn't care less about how it stacks up to a modern handgun. I wanted to own what is arguably the most American pistol ever made. It served in two world wars and was designed by the man responsible for laying the framework for the modern firearms market. When you said "pride of ownership" this is what I thought you were going to touch on. For me, the pride in owning a 1911 comes from my respect and reverence for its history.

In my experience another thing the 1911 has going for it is its grip index - unlike a lot of modern polymer "wonder 9s", which are each trying to lower the bore axis as much as possible, the 1911 puts your trigger finger and the webbing of your hand in line with the barrel. This means you can hold a 1911 and point your index finger forward, and it will be pointing directly at your target (rather than downwards at a slight angle). This seems to lead to easier instinctual pointing. I say this as someone that isn't much of a 1911 fan, but I appreciate grip index and bore axis as much as the next guy. This is also why stuff like the old Walther P99 / PPQ point so naturally for so many people - they have grip indexes very similar to that of a 1911.

A 1911 is like driving a vintage manual transmission car. They are more work but oh so classy and timeless. There's nothing like popping the clutch.

I carried a 1911 while in the Military Police in the 70's. In that time I probably put over 7,500 round through it (thank you tax payers) and never had a misfire shooting govt ball ammo. I loved the comfort of it and purchased a Colt Govt 1911 when I became a civilian. I now own a couple of others, 9mm but always rely on my 1911 for that safety feeling. I can also say that nothing matches the accuracy of a well maintained and handled 1911. Great video Chris.

The history behind the 1911 alone makes me love it. Also as he said, having a gun made entirely out of steel and wood is just really nice. I really don’t like polymer guns but that’s all there is in this day. I won’t deny modern firearms are just better but the style and build of a 1911 is just an art and engineering marvel.

What always impressed me about the 1911 is the fact its a design that is well over 100 years old but it's still used and works well enough to see competition pretty widely. For what it is that is actually rather impressive.

As a motorcyclist, the 1911 reminds me of the Harley-Davidson. On paper, it's got nothing on a Honda. It's for people who enjoy the aesthetic and experience of an American classic.

I once saw a space war documentary in which something was said that brought the 1911 to mind. " An elegant weapon for a more civilized age."

Our local PD went from revolvers to 1911’s in the 70’s. They used them to great effect until the Glock came along. They switched to those in the late 80’s. I still own one of those trade-ins. The officers had the option of still using their 1911’s and you saw quite a few for many years. Now, it’s all plastic. They’re still very, very effective. My favorite.

This gun was a game changer. Who could hate such an incredible game changer gun. It’s such a revolutionary gun that it looks virtually unchanged from 1911.

I think it's a real testament to the popularity of the 1911 design that you had an entire handgun industry spring up out of the desire to customize the standard grade Colt pistol. It is the '57 Chevy of the handgun world.

Did my first "gun smith class" on the 1911A1 using a GI parts kit from Auto Ordinance. It took a whole lot more custom fiitting than I expected to make it work, but after a Black Badge day and nearly 600 rounds without a malfunction I figure I passed that gun smith course. Pride of ownership - you bet!

For those who are new to guns and looking to buy a cheap and reliable 1911, the Rock Island is a good choice. Rock Island is based out of the Philippines, they are known for making guns reliable and cheap. Just don't expect a nice looking finish on their guns. They usually use parkerization, which is a dark green color and made to prevent rust. They are barebones, so they don't come with any features other than a beaver tail. I've seen them retail from $300-$400. I've put about 700 rounds through mine with no failures and with it not disagreeing very much with my ammo choices. Monarch brass ammo seems to be the most accurate for mine so far, and so happens to be one of the cheaper and more available options. Hope this helps.

I'm always extremely impressed with how fair you are to stakeholders. It's rare to find an unbiased opinion these days. Keep up the great work!!

I bought a used Colt 1911 back in the early 80's. It has worked well all of this time. I've had to do a few repairs. I also put 700 to a 1000 rounds a year through it. It's my normal carry gun, with a 10 round extended mag. Where I live we can open carry almost everywhere. I love it.

Soon as I saw the vid had to watch! I currently carry a 2011 professionally on duty and a 1911 (TRP) off duty. I get the arguments against it, but a well tuned and reliable 1911 isn’t hard to find, just stay with the well known brands and a few good range sessions will show you if the hun needs any work. The reward is worth it in my opinion. As far as cost, that’s relative. I have coworkers balk at the price of a 1911 while driving around in a new F250 or Tesla. We prioritize our money how we want, and if you really want a top shelf 1911 you’ll make the necessary means to get one. I hope to see more 1911 videos soon!

Began 1911 association/use when age 15, am 74 now. A 1911 is an old and trusted friend, one that can be relied upon to lend a helping hand if needed to be called upon. I have a couple of poly-frame pistols and enjoy them. Lighter in weight and smaller in size, they also have their place. A few revolvers are also used n' enjoyed. But ya know, there's just 'something' that can only be felt when picking up a 1911...

The great John Moses Browning made such a beautiful design with the 1911 that you can find it in a variety different calibers, and that's impressive.

Chris' point about how pride of ownership motivates practice deserves more attention. The best, safest, and most effective gun your arsenal is the one you train with the most. For those of us (read: most of us) who don't tailor our entire life around the defensive use of firearms, a 1911 we dig so much that we shoot it twice a month IS a superior tool to an M&P we feel "meh" about and shoot once a year.

“Pride of Ownership…” I always wanted a 1911 in 45acp, but found myself getting other guns and letting the 1911 slide down on my list. I thought I wanted to find a certified combat-used (WWII/Korea/VN) model, and I still do, but then, five months ago, I saw a used Ed Brown Executive Elite in my LGS case. The price was high, but still $800-1000 less than several Colts, Wilsons, and Nighthawks available in the nearby ‘new’ gun case. Running the slide on the Ed Brown was the finest I’ve ever felt. Run side by side with a Colt Gold Cup and a Nighthawk (both costing north of a grand more), the Ed Brown was far and away tighter and smoother (zero ‘maracas’ shake)…and the trigger on THAT gun helped me to finally, fully understand what having a “good trigger” actually means. So, I dumped a few thou I hadn’t planned to, and took it home. On its first range trip, it kept blowing out the bullseyes so easily, that I kept pushing back the targets until at 20yds, in a shadow of lighting on my lane, I began to lay hits just outside the bullseye, not because of the gun, but because of MY EYES! Going all the way back to 25, the light was better, but not my vision. I believe that, somehow, by sheer chance, I got a a really good one…from a maker who only builds VERY good ones. I was in the right place at the right time…one of the very few times I’ve been that lucky with a gun purchase. After about 300 rds of FMJs, still no problems, at all. There are three holster-wear “dots” of lost bluing, but otherwise it’s perfect. Is the 1911 better than newer designs, no. But it’s AT LEAST as cool as ANY other gun you can name, and it is incredibly accurate for an average shooter (me). I can only imagine what my gun would do in the hands of a skilled shooter! So the Ed Brown sits in my safe as my most favorite gun, the one I have to pick up and run the slide, nearly every time I open the safe, and the first one I take out to show friends. @LuckyGunnerAmmo, please do a few more videos on the 1911. The haters just don’t appreciate quality, history, or reverence for their elders. Thanks!!

I have a Rock Island Armory 1911 GI FS that I literally fell in love with. I have not one single complaint regarding it`s functionability, reliability and just pure enjoyment while shooting. Plus it is very accurate for a handgun that I paid under $500.00 for

I love my polymer wonder 9's, but I have a very special place for my 1911's. My Dan Wesson Valor evokes a certain emotion that none of my other guns do, and it also shoots lights out!

Got my first Army surplus 1911 at age 15 at a local hardware store in 1962 in Chicago. Carried one for 25 months in Vietnam and for twelve years thereafter working as a contractor… among other firearms. Carried one exclusively and illegally as a civilian till the early 1980’s when I went to a Sig 220. Can’t count the number of times I fought with a 1911 without a note pad. Also carried a Browning HP as back up during those days. The trick to the 1911 is to clean it about every two hundred rounds. I’ve owned as many as eleven 1911’s at a time… down to three. When your first manual of arms includes placing your thumb atop the the thumb safety as you draw then a 1911 is no problem. Haven’t regularly carried a 1911 for years. My current carry faves are Sig 226 in .357 Sig and H-K in 45 ACP. I’ll be 75 in February. My last gun fight was in a foreign country at age 60… beat a couple of guys with Berettas with a five shot S&W snubbie. It’s not the gun!

Just turned 40 this year. Been carrying the 1911 for almost twenty years. My V-Bob just recently was milled for a Red dot using the trijicon sight plate. For me, that helped bring my carry gun into the twenty first century. I have tried carrying other guns, carried a Glock 19 and a Sig 228 for a while. Always end up with that “heavy, limited capacity, unreliable” dinosaur in 45 acp on my hip. I have been to combat and was in the Infantry, things I have learned are that shot placement is important but physics is also. Guys didn’t get back up that often being hit with a large heavier caliber like 7.62 from a CS hit, despite what she might tell you, bigger is better. It’s why I like the 45 Acp, yeah modern ammo & HP make the 9mm similar to 45acp. At the end of the day, if I only had FMJ, I am taking the 45acp. I also am a big believer of carrying what you can comfortably get first shot hits with, regardless off gun. For me it’s a 1911. What about capacity? Well, shot placement, and reload drills. Not facing 100 pissed off jihadist in Sadar City, so I am good with 8+1. Even then, I would carry a 1911 into combat over a Glock in 9mm. Reliability, I have been to number of pistol courses, a 1911 needs to be maintained, it needs to have recoil springs and firing pin springs changed often. It’s like that 68 “ your dream muscle car.” If you don’t find pleasure in maintaining a car you won’t find pleasure in maintaining your 1911. That being said, I haven’t had a 1911 fail me yet due to the gun. Not trying to sell anyone on the 1911, it’s not for everyone. I also won’t knock you for what you choose to carry. Software is more important than hardware.

I inherited my great grandfathers colt government model 1911 A1. It was the first handgun I EVER pulled the trigger on…so obviously I was spoiled with a WW2 relic as my first gun ever and I could not ask for anything else. Because I started with this, got used to shooting it, and fell in love with it, I am a 1911 man. It’s in pristine condition. My favorite part is definitely the trigger.

I was first exposed to the 1911 back in the 1970’s early in my Naval career. The in again in the latter part of my career in the late 80’s early 90’s as a MP. That’s when I mastered it and got a real good understanding of it. In so much I bought two Blue combat commanders, one in 45 ACP the other in Colt Super 38 Auto . The love affair continues to this very day

My RIA 9mm 1911 has never failed. I did buy 3 Wilson Combat mags for it. Used for my LTC. Scored 100 💯

A 1911 is like a mechanical watch. It's outdated, expensive, and impractical for modern life. But what a wonderful machine it is. Edit: Outdated doesn't mean bad, it's just old tech. And impractical doesn't mean useless, it just means you have to love it enough to put up with its shortcomings. Which I do. Now go to bed, Grandpa. The scary words can't hurt you.

Wow, those advertisements were certainly a nostalgic throwback.

I'm right handed-and left eye-dominant. Drill sergeants in the 80's helped me open up a new world by switching the rifle to my left hand, but I never got there with handguns. The trigger of the 1911 is still the biggest draw for me - providing the only platform that allows me to generally hit the broadside of a barn or two. Great vid on one of my favorite controversies.

One of my favorite guns to shoot is a 1911 in 10mm. No, it wasn't cheap, but its almost like driving a 65 GTO instead of a Camry. It's the experience

Ironically enough, a 1911 was the first semi-auto handgun I owned that functioned reliably.

I'm a Vietnam vet...our sidearm was a 1911...and when I purchased my 1911-A1 a few years ago, I did it with pride...! And the best of the best is...take several manufacturers 1911's...field strip them...mix all the parts...and all of those parts work in every 1911...!!!

Hickok45 once said ”It’s all about grip, sights and trigger”. That’s exactly why I love the 1911.

1911/2011 seem to still dominate the competition game and many manufacturers continue to make them and sales are high, so they must a great option.

I like modern handguns, but the 1911 is definitely my favorite. I’d love to see a few more videos about it.

When I was in the Navy I worked in the armory for awhile and we used to have contests to see who could tear down a 1911 and pick it back together the quickest. The looser had to buy lunch. It has been decades but I think we averaged around 30 seconds. I loved that gun and now after getting all the other Glocks and Baretta's etc. I am going back to the 1911, my first love.))

I'm 37 and LOVE the 1911 and 2011 platform. It shoots great and looks great. Range toy yes, carry gun, no. There are better options for capacity and weight out there now. I have over 10 1911/2011's ranging from Springfield Armory to Cabot Guns. I love them all and will never stop buying them. I remember reading Guns & Ammo as a kid and falling in love with the looks, mechanics and overall nostalgia of the 1911 platform. I was hooked then and I'm hooked now!

You talked into getting a 1911, then you talked me out of it, then you made me rethink that hold darn thing, but it was certainly entertaining! Always love the content.

The first pistol I bought was a 1911, a Double Star match grade. I currently have three 1911's, two government and a commander. They are all more accurate than the striker fired pistols that I have.

Great discussion. One of the most well-rounded discussions of the 1911 I have seen. I have used a number of different firearms for concealed carry. I have returned to using a full size 1911 for concealed carry. The heavy weight of the large all steel pistol, and the recoil of the .45 ACP that could be described as energetic but slow rather than snappy, and the trigger that is easy on the arthritis in my trigger finger, as well as being easy to shoot accurately, make for a gun that is a pleasure in my weekly range practice. The weight is a factor for concealed carry, but I have found concealed carry solutions that work for me. So the design that I carried on duty 50 years ago is now my every day concealed carry tool. It is like coming home.

I carried on a near 20 year correspondence with Col Cooper, but my love of the 1911 started long before that. I had my first 1911 at age 12 when I acquired it from a neighbor who'd been a Lt. In WWII and he paid me with it for mowing his lawn and keeping his bird feeders full for a month. It was a Remington Rand. When I was a Special Agent with AFOSI, we were issued a special 1911 that had been modified by Air Force armorers for our organization. They were 1911A1 pistols with slides cut down to commander length, and grip frames cut down to a length that would later be copied by Colt for the Officer's model. I wish I could post a photo on this site as it's a lovely custom pistol. My experience with this gun has suggested that they are more reliable than the average shooter demands. I have a custom Gold Cup that has never jammed or malfunctioned in many 10s of thousands of rounds. I have a little Officer's size RIA that has been perfectly reliable with 230 grain hollow point ammo. The propensity of these little guns to jam has more to do with one's "Shooting Mechanics" than it does with the pistol's mechanics. The platform is proven. The shooter's skill is the unproven. Just like the little Springfield XD-S, they are tough guns to shoot in the hands of shooters who aren't as skilled as they thought they were... But with proper grip and shooting mechanics, the machine platform will perform flawlessly, though they may be somewhat ammo sensitive. I still prefer to carry my tupperware guns, but occasionally I'll get a little nostalgic and slip the 1911 into the holster.

You missed the biggest reason that 1911's are so loved. Many of us carried them in combat.

I’m 21 years old and my experience with 1911s is pretty sour but turned good. When my dad was 21 he bought two Kimbers, a Custom and a Raptor II back in 1999. Both don’t run to save a life and he has a RIA officer that’s very picky. He immediately said that it was the manufacturers end not his. So I stayed away from 1911s for a while until I got to shooting at matches and such and seen 1911s actually work from the cheap to the high end. Decided to do research and felt that what Ruger offers is damn good and is widely available in my area so I got a full-size SR1911 and I do enjoy it though I still prefer my Gen 3 Glock 19 or Sig P320. Mind you i shoot all my stuff stock with only enhancements to aid me in being a lefty. I feel the 1911 is really frowned upon especially in Gen Y to my generation of Gen Z due to how a lot of inexperienced shooters handled 1911s. I always asked “if it’s such a bad handgun then why did we use it for 75 years in service and why do people still like it now”. I feel a lot of newer shooters are just so use to light weight polymer 9mms that when they handle a much heavier handgun like a 1911 and don’t shoot much 45 ACP they can limp wrist it which is possibly 90% of the reliably issues there. If you ask me the 1911s hate is just shooters who are not use to the handgun

Love the well researched presentation of history along with embedded videos and photos. Subscribed. I carried a 1911 .45 in Desert Storm as an Army MP though they had been almost completely phased out at that point. Shook and rattled like it was going to fall apart. No idea how old it was.

Love my 1911 45 Springfield and my Staccato C2 9mm. Fell in love with both of them as soon as I put them in my hand

Before covid I purchased my first and inexpensive 1911 (Tisas) for around $300 after seeing very positive reviews. First shot was dead center of the bullseye at 7 yards with zero malfunctions using 200 rounds of Winchester ball, something I never experienced with other pistols I own except a revolver. It is heavy but it's well balanced weight. It does require a little more cleaning and lubrication than modern pistols. For.45acp it's surprisingly thinner than most other pistols on the market, even those in .380. Ammo capacity is not a big deal to me because reloading is fast. The magazines are thinner than Glock magazines, even the small .380 Glock 42 model.

The first pistol i purchased was a 1911 5”. Still have it and it’s still my favorite handgun I own. I finally decided to give the polymer guns a try and bought a G19 MOS. I’ve put quite a bit of money into that pistol to get it somewhat close to shooting like my 1911s. It’s still not there but it’s OK. I think the draw to the 1911 was handled pretty well in the vid and with other’s comments. For me, it fits my hand better than any other pistol or revolver. There is no comparison…that I’ve found anyway. After 1000’s of rounds through the pipe, it’s what I know and trust. Yes, the 1911 is what I carry. I look at polymer pistols like an economy car. They’re efficient and will get you there…reliably. The 1911 is like a classic muscle car. Fun to drive, sucks gas, and is a maintenance pig. But, it’s still worth owning and driving with a smile.

The reason I love my 1911 so much is because of its unmatched ergonomics. To be fair, I do have smaller hands, but it just fits my hands like a glove and that trigger pull is unlike any other gun I've shot. They're really works of art and I have yet to be let down by a 1911.

I was a wheel gun fan all my life until I joined the military (USCG) in 1987 and had to qualify with the .45, at which time I fell in love with that weapon. Imminently pointable, much less recoil than the big magnums I was accustomed to shooting, and scary accurate. I bought a Springfield .45 that year, had it Armorycoated and a match trigger installed by SA, and while I loved it it couldn’t fire a 50 rd box of hardball without at least one malfunction, which is one too many. Eventually sold it and in 2004 or so I picked up a bone stock Parkerized Springfield GI model .45 from a buddy for $400. It has seen 5000+ rds thru it with zero problems or malfunctions, and when things go bump in the night I reach past all of my other guns and grab it. I like all guns and calibers, and own many, and I say use whatever your shoot well, whether it’s a .22 pocket pistol or an .88 Magnum- that shoots through schools. 😉

I have a Remington 1911 R1S in 45acp and I love it. Never had any issues with it and it shoots great!

People like the 1911 for the same reason everyone wants a sword rather than a spear. Sure the spear is easier to get, more practical and historically did all the killing but the sword has an allure that resonates in the hearts of men. The 1911 gives that same feeling.

For me the 1911 was my first gun. In the late fifties I learned gun safety and gun handling form a NRA class held at the local high school, using bolt action .22s. I did not regularly carry a gun until I joined the Navy. When on watch I had a, as we called it a 45, on my hip, a colt 1911. Today this is what I know. I have a nostalgia for this gun, and it is my EDC. It may be heavy, it may be bulky, if I draw it from my holster you had best lay down. At 20 yards I can put my shots inside the 10 ring all day.

The first center fire pistol that I ever fired was a 1911. When I was a boy, my dad brought me to a range with a work friend and he let me fire his Colt Gold cup 1911. Holding that 1911 felt like holding a bar of gold and I made a respectable group and had that target on my wall for years. When I was a young man, I bought one the first Kimber 1911's and to this day, my adult son refers to it as "his" Kimber. Please do more videos on the 1911. They remind me of the day when a boy got to hold gold in his hands.

I'm no 1911 fan boi but I will say I have never had a problem with any of my or my dad's rock island 1911s. We've got 3 between us I have never once had a failure. I dont have a round count but at least 1k through mine. My dad also bought a kimber a few years back and I can't go through a box of ammo without it malfunctioning. Rock Island is a great out of the box 1911 imo. You can probably find em for around 500 nowadays.

The 1911 has character, which is something that modern polymer pistols are lacking. While advances in technology without question make polymer guns better in so many ways, they are without a soul, and that is important to many of us.

I was an MP at Quantico from '84 to '88 and we carried the older Colt government 1911 my entire time. It was the first handgun I had fired. I love it to this day. if I had to pick only one gun to keep (out of my collection) it would be a 1911. I have a 1917 Colt government and a new Ruger SR1911. Love them both.

What a superb job on this one. To hear a well-spoken, intelligent person on subjects like this is refreshing. (Yea, I subscribed…) I’m an old (71-year-old) Vietnam-era retired Army E8, Airborne Infantryman. After the Army’s training on handguns, an Army SFC National Match Pistol Champion trained me all over again with the 1911 of course. Thereafter, I always fired Expert with any handgun I qualified with. Now, I EDC a .45 ACP, not always the 1911 model. The never-ending quest for which caliber, which handgun will, and can never be answered. I don’t think the author thinks so, either. But he made some great observations about the history of the 1911 pistol and Jeff Cooper, too. I’ve owned many 1911s - but never paid over $650 for one. After a lifetime of training with it, I can replace barrels & bushings and machine trigger tolerances, if necessary. Most folks have two big dilemmas to overcome; Training to quickly & effectively engage a target - and Mindset about using deadly force. Also, what justifies drawing your handgun and engaging a foe…

Another excellent video! I carried a 1911 (Rem-Rand) for a few years as a detective and loved it. Taught quite a few new shooters how to shoot with it (they all wanted to shoot "THAT gun"). It fits more hands than most other designs. Even a very petite (well under 5' and couldn't make 100 pounds with lead boots) lady had no trouble with recoil, just the weight. When we went to issue only guns I had to only tote it off duty and sadly had to hand it in when I retired (it was the department's gun through the Army DRMO program). Soon as I retired, I bought me a commander sized RIA .45 1911 and have been slowly customizing it ever since. Heavy as a boat anchor but feels so good in the hand. FWIW, my first duty pistol was a Browning Hi-Power and my agency was one of the few here that allowed single action semi-autos (most still toted wheel-guns when I started). So single action pistols for police duty was not that remarkable. But there are some very good points. Merry Christmas to y'all and all my fellow fans.

If you have ever shot a competition, you have seen a ton of 1911 jams

I've carried the 1911-the first one was Colt Combat GOV 80's Series for 44 years. During the first 25 years will 45 ball ammo. Now I carry the Cabot Vintage Commander in 45 acp or 9mm or my Wilson Combat Hackathorn. Hollowpoint ammo has gotten much better over the years.

Chris, your channel has a perfect combination of information, production polish, and practicality. Lots of good channels out there but I will never skip a LG new video notification. Thanks!

The 1911 is a "right" design. Imagine a world where everyone had living relatives from the Civil War, 99% of rifles were bolt action, and the revolver had just "won the west." Enter a semi-auto handgun with clean angular styling that looks modern in 2021. Any honest person alive today will admit to being shocked when they learned WHY it is called the 1911. It was a masterpiece of industrial design with few peers outside of firearms, and none within. This is true and your or my opinion of it matters zero. It has affected every handgun since. It was a triumph of design, when new, in a way that takes it out of the hands of gun enthusiasts and passes it into the gallery of great designs made real by the human hand and mind. Only the 1911 is the 1911. That opportunity came once and won't come again. Respect for the 1911 isn't really optional unless one knows nothing.

I disagree with the cheaper 1911's being less quality. I have owned a RIA for about three years now with several thousand rounds through it and it is still going strong. Read the reviews they are very dependable guns. Technically the 1911 is a simple design, there isn't much to go wrong with them.

1911 the first pistol i ever shot. i love them and everytime i shoot one it gives me that nostalgic feeling. picking it up the weight is nice it feels more dense than a brick and for me at 6'1 275 pound male it fits my hands great. i think a lot of people have to be in the same boat as me with how many of these pistols are out there lmao.

I carried one in the Army in my younger days, so I was familiar with the manual of arms. I still carry one now because I've only ever seen one polymer handgun (the P365) that can hold more ammunition with a smaller grip circumference. I have small hands and have a very difficult time getting a good grip on many standard/compact polymer handguns. I've never owned a Glock because their grip circumference added in to the blade safety in the trigger means that I frequently have a difficult time actually getting enough of my index finger onto the trigger to deactivate the blade safety. The 1911 is much more forgiving. Put thin grips and a short shoe'd trigger in it, and it Just Fits.

Mr. Chris, I really appreciate your content & the delivery. The effective transmission of info is admirable; matched only with the method and means. Merry Christmas, Feliz Navidad, Happy Hanukkah to all of the team that makes these videos possible.

I'm disappointed this video wasn't hosted by "Manny" Mansfield. Will we ever see him again?!?!

I had the pleasure of holding a Wilson Combat 1911 in my hand and everything about it exuded quality. For being an all metal frame, it really didn't feel much heavier than my G19 or PX4 Storm. The one thing I immediately noticed was that it didn't need grip tape; it felt comfortable just the way it came from the factory. The guy who owned it said it cost him $2K. If I'm going to spend that kind of money on a firearm, it will be for a Benelli semiautomatic shotgun.

1911 forever and always lol I'm that guy 🤣

As always, you present a calm and knowledgeable voice in a sea of "only my opinion matters". You are refreshing and I appreciate your style.

I own a variety of firearms - rifles and handguns including several 1911's. I enjoy shooting the 1911 and agree ergonomics of firing this weapon is quite comfortable. Knowing the 1911 must be attended to and clean to assure reliability is simple thing. The ones I shoot have proven extremely reliable and do not fail. I keep them always clean and ready and cleaning them, to me, is part of the pleasure of having the firearm. I clean all my firearms and keep them in good condition. The 1911 with its thin profile and with a 4 inch barrel is quite easy to carry concealed. The weight of the gun is not a problem.

The 1911 was the first gun that I'd shot at the range. It ran like a dream and it fit my hand well. I hope to get one soon.

Love my 1911 in 10mm. Arguably the best 10mm I've ever fired. Really enjoy your content. Merry Christmas, and a very Happy New Year!

I love learning about the history and mechanics of firearms. Great information.

I think you nailed it. People complain about 1911s because they *do need* more maintenance than the modern polymer guns like a Glock for example. Personally I don't mind cleaning my guns. I always clean them after I use them anyway so...

Chris, I always enjoy your videos. In my opinion, you define professionalism.

That Wilson Combat and that Dan Wesson were gorgeous. Nothing you don't need in a gun, simple yet elegant and effective.....just the way I like it.

Although I like modern style pistols, I still find the 1911 to be extremely "pointable." I feel like I acquire targets quickly with one and the grip angle is basically perfect for me. If the SHTF, I would take a Glock 17 any day, but I have always shot 1911 pistols with good accuracy even on the first magazine.

Great video--thanks. One factor of the "pride of ownership" is that you will enjoy the routine maintenance a .45 requires. It was designed before engineers learned how to make things cheaply, and all of those sliding, interlocking pieces of steel are a rare feature in an age of throw-away plastic. Glocks are great, but I prefer my Colts. --Old guy

Bought my M1911R1 made by Remington 5 years ago. Always accurate and easy to field strip and clean. First fired one at Ft. Polk Louisiana in 1975, it was an old army M1911a1 made my Springfield.

Great video, Chris, and a very Merry Christmas and happy New Year to you all!

Thank you for this video. I like my 1911 and my revolvers for the same reason: they’re beautiful, functional works of art.

Picked up my Taurus 1911 in a pawn store for $150. I cleaned it very well, and a very good gun refinisher refinished the entire weapon in a nice matte black. To date I have around 5500 rounds through it without a failure. The only modification I've ever made was to put a nice set of wood grips on.

Yes .... us old guys with our antiquated 5" 1911, 5 shot S&W J-frames and the blue worn Remington 870P riding behind the seat of the truck .... old school; relics of yesteryear. That being said; lessons learned the hard way by the polymer kids ... never underestimate the man with the one gun he knows how to shoot. Thank you Chris for the smile.

Would love to see more 1911 content from you Chris in the further. Nice video, thank you.

I've liked 1911s since the 70's show "The Manhunter", with Ken Howard. The main character carried dual .45s and my 12 year old self thought that was awesome. As an adult I tended to the more practical, but finally got a Sig 1911 when Turner's had them for a sale price I couldn't resist. I liked it until I got it out to the range, then I fell in love with it. Yeah, 1911s are cool. I totally get that you may not want to do more 1911 stuff Chris, but I think Manny would love to. Maybe see if there's something in the old vault?

Love these talks. 1911’s are from a period of time when people took care of their firearms, cleaned them often, and understood them. There are plenty of firearms this day that can out do them, but if you want a full steel well balanced pistol with the best trigger, look no further. Kinda like comparing a 67’ Chevy to a 2019 Z06. Just my two cents. Cheers all.

I remember growing up in the height of the whole custom 1911 and competition shooting with 1911 era, probably why I have always loved them. I started shooting rifles and handguns both when I was about 9, getting my first rifle at 10. My grandfather always carried 1911 pistols, typically series 80 gold cups until Kimber got into everything. The first gun I bought was a Beretta 92, followed by a Taurus Public Defender. But my next 3 guns were all 1911s of varying quality (ATI 3", RIA 5" GI, then finally a Kimber Custom Shop Equinox Ultra, trading up each time.) After I learned a lot about machining and metal fabrication, I got to start doing modifications to 1911s and even did some repairs on a couple of my grandfather's colts. He ended up giving a Kimber to myself, and my father inherited his other Kimber ultra when he passed. I love 1911s but I'm not one of those guys who believes they are the only gun worth owning.

Great job. You called it pretty much as it is. The trigger is so nice that it makes it perfect to compete with. The weight and recoil impulse seem to put you right back where you want to be. These are the things to put in a replacement and hard to find