SELLER DESCRIPTION FOR THIS FIREARM

United States Military Academy class of 2012 edition. Pistol is unfired and has original box and paperwork. No marks or flaws of any kind.

GENERAL MANUFACTURER PRODUCT INFORMATION

Colt M1991 Custom Shop 1911 Pistol .45 ACP 5″ Barrel 7 Round Blued Single Action Frame: Carbon Steel Blued – Slide: Carbon Steel Blued – Grips: Rosewood with Gold Medallions – Sights: High Profile – Safeties: Safety Lock Grip Safety – Length: 8.5″ – Weight: 2.1 Lbs. – Series 80 – Front grip serrations – Arched serrated mainspring housing with lanyard loop – Colt Custom Shop box – The Colt 1991 Series is a direct descendant of the original Colt M1911. A long trigger flat mainspring housing and original style recoil spring system remain from the original M1911 design. Upgrades from the original include white dot sights and a lowered ejection port for extra reliability.

A Brief History

The M1911 was designed by John Browning, a prolific firearms designer known for his innovations. The pistol was officially adopted by the U.S. Army in 1911 as a replacement for the .38 Long Colt revolver. It quickly earned a reputation for reliability, stopping power, and durability, making it a trusted sidearm during World War I, World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War.

Despite being officially retired from military service in 1985, the M1911 continues to be used by some military and law enforcement agencies. Its design has also influenced many modern handguns, and it remains a popular choice for civilian shooters and collectors.

Design and Features

The Colt M1911 is known for its classic design and distinctive features. Here’s an overview of what makes this handgun stand out:

**1. Caliber and Magazine: The M1911 is chambered in .45 ACP (Automatic Colt Pistol), a cartridge known for its stopping power and effectiveness. The standard magazine holds 7 rounds, although extended magazines are available. The .45 ACP cartridge provides a powerful punch, making the M1911 a formidable handgun.

**2. Construction: The M1911 features a steel frame and slide, which contribute to its durability and solid feel. The pistol’s construction is designed to withstand rigorous use and maintain reliability under various conditions. The classic design includes a checkered walnut or synthetic grip, providing a secure hold.

**3. Action and Operation: The M1911 operates using a short recoil, locked-breech system. It has a single-action trigger, which requires the hammer to be manually cocked for each shot. This design offers a crisp and predictable trigger pull, favored by many shooters for precision shooting.

**4. Sights: The M1911 comes with fixed iron sights, typically featuring a front post and rear notch. While basic, these sights are functional and provide reliable aiming. Many modern versions of the M1911 come with upgraded sights or optics mounts for improved accuracy.

**5. Safety Features: The M1911 is equipped with several safety features, including a thumb safety and a grip safety. The thumb safety, located on the left side of the frame, locks the hammer and prevents accidental discharge. The grip safety requires pressure to be applied to the rear of the grip for the pistol to fire, adding an extra layer of security.

**6. Barrel and Accuracy: The standard barrel length for the M1911 is 5 inches, which contributes to its accuracy and effective range. The pistol’s design ensures consistent and reliable performance, making it a preferred choice for both target shooting and self-defense.

Performance and Legacy

The Colt M1911 is celebrated for its performance and legacy. Its .45 ACP cartridge delivers significant stopping power, making it effective for self-defense and combat situations. The pistol’s robust construction and reliable operation have earned it a reputation for durability and accuracy.

Over the decades, the M1911 has been adopted by various military and law enforcement agencies around the world. Its design has influenced numerous other firearms, and it remains a symbol of American ingenuity and craftsmanship.

Modern Variations

While the original M1911 design remains largely unchanged, numerous modern variations and enhancements are available. Colt and other manufacturers offer updated versions of the M1911 with improved features, such as:

• Enhanced Sights: Modern M1911s often come with upgraded sights, including night sights and adjustable sights for improved accuracy.
• Custom Grips: Various grip options are available, including ergonomic and tactical designs.
• Accessory Rails: Some versions include accessory rails for mounting lights or lasers.
• Upgraded Triggers: Enhanced triggers provide a smoother and lighter pull, improving overall performance.

Collectibility and Cultural Impact

The Colt M1911 holds a significant place in firearms history and popular culture. It has been featured in countless movies, television shows, and literature, further cementing its status as an iconic firearm. Collectors prize the M1911 for its historical significance and craftsmanship, and original models are often sought after for their rarity and value.

Conclusion

The Colt M1911 is a testament to the enduring legacy of one of the most iconic handguns ever designed. Its classic design, powerful performance, and historical significance make it a favorite among shooters, collectors, and historians alike. Whether used for self-defense, target shooting, or as a piece of living history, the M1911 continues to be a symbol of excellence and innovation in the world of firearms.