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Editor’s Choice (All-Around)
Atlas Gunworks Athena
Best for Competition
Staccato XL
Great Buy
Springfield Prodigy
For pistol shooters, there are more options than ever to fit your type of capturing or fill a spot in your assortment. Nevertheless, if you wish to shoot quick and precisely, look no additional than a double-stack 1911, extra generally often known as a 2011-pattern pistol. Such a handgun is a product of the 80s and 90s, combining a slicked-up 1911 with large magazines—and was born from the will to realize the utmost in efficiency in sensible pistol competitions.
Immediately, this pistol design is in a renaissance, discovering a house past the aggressive scene as an Instagram-worthy vary pistol or severe defensive software. In mild of this resurgence, I spent a number of months placing hundreds of rounds by a spectrum of double-stack 1911 and 2011 handguns—all the things from entry-level blasters to hand-built masterpieces.
Double-stack 1911s and 2011 Pistols Examined
How I Examined Double-Stack 1911s and 2011s
So how do you check weapons which can be presupposed to be quicker and extra correct than all the things else on the market? Shoot it for accuracy additional than regular and push it arduous chasing pace.
However that’s not the one purpose this was a difficult discipline of weapons to guage. The actual fact is all these weapons are actually good. I used to be stunned on the degree of accuracy and pace all these 2011 pistols may obtain.
So it actually got here all the way down to high quality factors of differentiation when it comes to options, workmanship, and ergonomics. Relying in your price range and desires, nonetheless, you received’t go flawed with any of those.
Capturing For Accuracy
Each pistol followed the same accuracy protocol as we utilized in our 2023 gun check, capturing from a standing place with assist from a tripod topped with a sandbag. However as an alternative of capturing at 15 yards, I pushed the targets to 25 yards. All accuracy testing was achieved with the included manufacturing facility journal.
Timed Drills
I carried out numerous drills, together with Bill drills, El Presidentes, doubles, goal transition arrays, and different ability workouts, with every pistol. These drills gave me worthwhile insights into sight monitoring, handiness, operation of controls, and an total really feel for every firearm. Moreover, I shot from each sturdy and weak sides. This put a highlight on the pistols’ shootability and reliability underneath completely different circumstances.
Swapping Magazines
I additionally swapped magazines among the many pistols. I ran every pistol with magazines from completely different producers, together with Staccato, Atlas, MBX, Checkmate, and Duramag. I discovered that if the magazines match, they cycled and shot nicely in every of the weapons. The one limitations we discovered had been in a couple of situations, the prolonged base plate would stretch too excessive and make contact with a big journal nicely. The repair to this is able to be swapping base plates or submitting them down to suit, or simply going with longer magazines.
Capturing Completely different Sorts of Ammo
I fed the weapons quite a lot of ammunition, starting from 100-grain Lehigh defensive rounds to Federal, Remington, Winchester, and CCI Blazer blasting ammo within the 115- to 124-grain vary. Defensive hundreds from Hornady and Speer had been additionally included within the evaluation.
This complete method aimed to supply a radical and goal evaluation of the pistols’ capabilities when it comes to each accuracy and pace.
The Greatest 2011 Pistols: Critiques and Suggestions
Editor’s Selection (All-Round): Atlas Gunworks Athena
Takeaway: Atlas Gunworks Athena stands out as a flexible providing with a give attention to aggressive and motion capturing. The hand-built building, optimized elements, and precision make it a prime performer, notably in USPSA’s new Restricted Optics division.
Key Options
- Motion: Single-action, semi-auto
- Caliber: 9mm Luger
- Weight: 2 kilos 6 ounces (with Sig Romeo 3 Max, no journal)
- Barrel: 4.5 inches
- Size: 8.25 inches
- End: DLC
- Set off pull weight: 1.75 kilos
- Security: Ambidextrous
- Magwell: Sure
- Common of all ammo, 25-yard group sizes (5-shots): 1.64 inches
- Most correct ammunition examined: Speer G2 Gold Dot 147 grain, 1.16 inches
- Journal Included: Atlas Gunworks
- Worth: $5,600
Atlas Gunworks has carved out a novel area of interest for themselves within the 2011 market. As an alternative of letting prospects select particular elements, finishes, and different choices, they’re providing hand-built, optimized/purpose-driven spec weapons to allow them to get extra weapons in buyer fingers. As well as, additionally they promote a incredible collection of magazines for any 2011 buyer.
The Atlas Athena is a flexible providing, designed to excel in numerous functions, from aggressive capturing to obligation use. The complete metallic building lends a stable really feel to the hand, with a well-fitted grip that options modern paneling choices for personalisation. Out of the field, the pistol was configured the best way I might arrange a match gun, with a large security, Sig Romeo3 Max, inert grip security, and a sub-2-pound set off. This configuration is right for the USPSA’s new Restricted Optics division.
When dealing with and capturing the Atlas, the slide cycles like it’s on ball bearings. Every thing locks up tight, the controls have a optimistic and satisfying really feel, and the aggressive texture on the grip works with even moist fingers. On the vary, the Athena delivered the tightest common teams, making it probably the most exact of the check.
In my Atlas Athena, Federal’s 115-grain Syntec ammunition shot exceptionally nicely, particularly for a budget-friendly load. This mixture proved able to making tight pictures, at pace, with ease. Whereas the Atlas could also be costly, it’s a powerful pistol and doesn’t go away something to be desired when it comes to efficiency and high quality.
Editor’s Selection (Private Safety): Nighthawk Custom TRS Commander
Takeaway: The TRS Commander impressed me with its flawless execution, distinctive performance, and aesthetics. Nighthawk’s consideration to element and stability between type and performance make it a top-tier selection for each vary and carry.
Key Options
- Motion: Single-action, semi-auto
- Caliber: 9mm Luger
- Weight: 2 kilos 6 ounces (with RMR, no journal)
- Set off: 4 kilos 10 ounces
- Barrel: 4.25 inches
- Size: 7.75 inches
- End: Battleworn Bronze
- Set off pull weight: 3.25 kilos
- Security: Ambidextrous
- Magwell: No
- Common of all ammo, 25-yard group sizes (5-shots): 1.81 inches
- Most correct ammunition examined: Hornady 115gr Vital Protection, 1.29 inches
- Journal Included: Staccato G3
- Worth: $5,219
Following Nighthawk Customized’s current success in our 1911 Gun Test, I had excessive expectations for the TRS Commander. After quite a few vary periods I had little doubt that Nighthawk produces distinctive pistols. The TRS Commander embodies perfection in its performance, tactile expertise, and aesthetics. Even underneath meticulous scrutiny, I discovered no flaws. Nighthawk’s unparalleled consideration to element is clear, from the superbly executed flush-cut and countersunk barrel on the entrance of the slide to the seamless mix of each edge and nook.
The controls exhibit the perfect “really feel,” hanging an ideal stability between resistance and smoothness. The included pink dot and iron sights had been impeccably regulated at 25 yards, straight out of the field. By way of capturing efficiency, the TRS Commander excels throughout all ammunition varieties, delivering a median group dimension of 1.81 inches. Apparently, lighter ammunition (100 to 115 grains) tended to provide barely tighter teams.
Whereas the TRS Commander is an impressive vary pistol, it’s nicely configured nicely as a top-tier carry pistol, too. The grip strikes a pleasant stability between being grippy and clothing-friendly. With a 4.25-inch barrel, it balanced nicely in my fingers and within the holster. If in case you have the price range to take a position, the Nighthawk TRS Commander is a incredible selection.
Greatest For Competitors (tie): Staccato XL
Takeaway: The Staccato XL, a race-ready pistol, exemplifies the model’s dedication to reimagining the 2011 platform. With an extended barrel, a tuned match set off, and impeccable match and end, the XL is a standout selection for pace shooters.
Key Options
- Motion: Single-action, semi-auto
- Caliber: 9mm Luger
- Weight: 2 kilos 6 ounces (no journal)
- Barrel: 5.4 inches
- Size: 8.875 inches
- End: DLC
- Set off pull weight: 2.25 kilos
- Security: Ambidextrous
- Magwell: Sure
- Common of all ammo, 25-yard group sizes (5-shots): 1.74 inches
- Most correct ammunition examined: Hornady 135 grain Vital Responsibility, 0.89 inches
- Journal Included: Staccato G3
- Worth: $3,599
The 2011 renaissance we at present take pleasure in has quite a bit to do with the work Staccato put into reimagining the platform. They expanded the viewers for the 2011 past the hardcore rivals that had been the unique lovers. They developed fashions that attraction to those that carry weapons for obligation, self-defense, and basic vary work.
The Staccato P is the do-anything possibility, which now we have reviewed several times, together with one I ran for more than 20,000 rounds. We’ve additionally regarded on the Staccato CS, their EDC mannequin. For this round-up, I shot the Staccato XL, which is a 5.4-inch barreled mannequin that hearkens again the corporate’s roots.
With an MSRP within the mid $3K vary, the XL is billed as Staccato’s race-ready pistol. The longer sight radius lends itself nicely to make use of with iron sights, permitting for a extra refined sight image. This specific pistol within the check is my pistol, which has a thinner entrance sight and rear blade connected for even better precision, in addition to a change to a shorter set off shoe to swimsuit my preferences. Every thing else was left inventory, as it’s a very well-equipped possibility.
The match and end on the XL is excellent, with clear traces, damaged edges, and a fantastic DLC end (I additionally opted for a DLC-coated barrel with this instance). A part of making the pistol competitively prepared, the XL encompasses a 2.5-pound tuned match set off in comparison with the 4- to 5-pound instance within the P mannequin. Between the lighter set off and longer sight radius, the XL was simple to shoot nicely. I shot the tightest group of the check with it, a 0.89-inch 5-shot group at 25 yards with Hornady’s 135-grain Vital Responsibility 9mm load.
The feel of Staccato’s Tactical Grip presents a pleasant stability of stickiness within the fingers however isn’t sharp or snaggy. For the pace shooter, the Staccato XL is able to working with one of the best. The additional-long and heavier bull barrel and slide contribute to minimal sight disruption. And the sunshine set off’s crisp breaks makes it simple to place a number of rounds onto targets large and small with ease. Staccato could have modified the 2011 sport, but it surely hasn’t forgotten its roots with the XL mannequin.
Greatest For Competitors (tie): Masterpiece Arms DS9 Hybrid
Takeaway: The Masterpiece Arms DS9 Hybrid brings precision hot-rod engineering into the aggressive pistol enviornment. With a give attention to pace and distinctive management, the DS9 Hybrid delivers excellent efficiency in motion pistol video games, and basic vary use.
Key Options
- Motion: Single-action, semi-auto
- Caliber: 9mm Luger
- Weight: 2 kilos 10 ounces (no journal)
- Barrel: 5.0 inches
- Size: 8.75 inches
- End: Nitride
- Set off pull weight: 2.0 kilos
- Security: Ambidextrous
- Magwell: Sure
- Common of all ammo, 25-yard group sizes (5-shots): 1.84 inches
- Most correct ammunition examined: Wilson Ammunition Reman 135gr, 1.29 inches
- Journal Included: MBX
- Worth: $3,599
Masterpiece Arms (aka MPA) began within the gun enterprise providing a couple of easy weapons based mostly off of the MAC-10 submachine gun household, however has changed into a precision hot-rod store over the previous decade. Famend within the precision rifle neighborhood, MPA chassis are among the many hottest selections on the Precision Rifle Collection circuit. Underneath the management of Phil Cashin and his crew, MPA is acknowledged for its speedy evolution of designs, constantly addressing the precise wants of shooters. A pair years again, they made a big transfer into the aggressive pistol enviornment by the acquisition of CK Arms.
Every DS9 is hand-built and tuned at MPA. That is adopted by rigorous testing and inspection earlier than it goes to the client. The lineup has numerous choices, with the DS9 Hybrid standing out for its high-level workmanship and flexibility. This mannequin options the Accuracy X Sight Base, designed for versatility with compatibility for each iron sights and pink dot sights, providing configurability to fulfill the shooter’s preferences. The Hybrid is well-suited for a spread of functions, excelling in motion pistol video games, obligation eventualities, and basic vary use.
Sporting a 5-inch barrel, a full metallic grip, full-length mud cowl and magwell, the DS9 Hybrid makes a powerful assertion with its dimension and heft. The set off, averaging a decent 2 kilos of whole pull weight, enhances the pistol’s responsiveness. Notably, the MPA DS9 displays distinctive pace, able to delivering 3 to 4 pictures on track within the time it takes for another fashions to fireplace two. When deliberately firing greater spherical rely strings, the MPA DS9 virtually seems like a submachine gun, because of how simple it’s to manage the pistol and manipulate the set off.
I’ve a few critiques concerning the MPA pistol, primarily centered on the end and set off shoe match. The tri-topped slide displays some sharpness on the edges, notably noticeable within the entrance slide serrations. Moreover, the set off shoe shows a noticeable quantity of up-and-down play within the grip slot. Though this doesn’t result in malfunctions or operational points, it’s noticeable.
Whereas the MPA DS9 could not boast the identical aesthetic perfection because the Atlas or Nighthawk, it excels as a performer. For these searching for a aggressive pistol, MPA gives a number of choices tailor-made to varied video games and divisions, making certain top-notch efficiency.
Vudoo Gunworks Priest
Takeaway: The Vudoo Gunworks Priest is an instance of the expansion of the market, with an organization identified for difficult the established order, introducing a succesful pistol that has plenty of worth for its value. With distinctive milling, an optic-ready design, and considerate enhancements, the Priest presents a compelling package deal for aggressive capturing and vary enjoyment.
Key Options
- Motion: Single-action, semi-auto
- Caliber: 9mm Luger
- Weight: 2 kilos 9 ounces (with Trijicon SRO, no journal)
- Barrel: 5.0 inches
- Size: 8.75 inches
- End: Black Cerakote
- Set off pull weight: 3.0 kilos
- Security: Ambidextrous
- Magwell: Sure
- Common of all ammo, 25-yard group sizes (5-shots): 2.05 inches
- Most correct ammunition examined: Speer G2 Gold Dot 147 grain, 1.25 inches
- Journal Included: MBX
- Worth: $3,305
Vudoo Gunworks, identified for its work in supercharging the precision rimfire rifle market, has expanded its repertoire by difficult the established order within the realm of 1911 pistols. My first encounter with the Vudoo pistol line was on the 2022 Precision Rifle Expo in Texas, the place the Mobius, a single-stack variant, and their .22 LR providing had been showcased.
Nevertheless it wasn’t till this 12 months that I obtained my fingers on their flagship pistol—the Priest—which is a double-stack 9mm.
Priced at $3,305 MSRP, the Priest just isn’t a price range possibility, however its out-of-the-box options makes it a compelling possibility. I’d go as far as to name it a fantastic worth. What you get with this pistol when it comes to the characteristic set and workmanship may simply justify one other $1,000 on the value tag. The slide displays distinctive milling impressed by the unique Authorities sample weapons, however with sides and ornamental milling that align with Twenty first-century aesthetics.
The pattern I examined was optic-ready, that includes an enlarged platform and minimize within the slide for mounting optics. The pistol’s grip is billed as Vudoo’s Hybrid Aluminum, which I discovered presents an aggressive texture with out being abrasive on the fingers. Extra enhancements, equivalent to a flush-fit slide cease on the correct aspect, an prolonged/enlarged journal launch, and a spacious journal nicely, remove the necessity for aftermarket upgrades.
By way of efficiency, the Vudoo Priest delivers a clean recoil impulse and I discovered it simple to shoot shortly with all of the ammunition I examined. It’s competition-ready out of the field—however to confirm that opinion I took it to a number of matches the place it excelled.
Wilson Combat SFX9
Takeaway: Wilson Fight’s SFX9 is a scaled-down double-stack 1911 variant, mixing refinement with a carry-friendly design. With a crisp set off, glorious match and end, and sensible options, the SFX9 balances dimension and efficiency.
Key Options
- Motion: Single-action, semi-auto
- Caliber: 9mm Luger
- Weight: 1 kilos 11 ounces (no journal)
- Barrel: 4.0 inches
- Size: 7.375 inches
- End: DLC Slide/Anodized Body
- Set off pull weight: 3.5 kilos
- Security: Single-side
- Magwell: No
- Common of all ammo, 25-yard group sizes (5-shots): 1.97 inches
- Most correct ammunition examined: Wilson Ammunition Reman 135gr, 1.21 inches
- Journal Included: Wilson SFX 15rd
- Worth: $3,210
Technically, this entry from Wilson Fight just isn’t a real 2011 sample pistol. However we included it because it matches on this group extra naturally than into different classes. The SFX9 is a scaled-down double-stack 1911 variant that balances nicely in 9mm. This smaller pistol has a couple of parts that distinquish it from a typical 2011, particularly the distinctive design of the journal, the stable single-piece body, and the exterior extractor. The pattern I examined wore iron sights and is configured extra like a carry gun than a race pistol.
Match and end for the Wilson SFX9 was glorious, as one would anticipate of a customized pistol. The serrations on the slide and body match, creating surfaces simple to seize with out eradicating pores and skin. The entire metallic work is excellent, with a fair end. As would even be anticipated, the set off was crisp and clear, breaking at a carry-appropriate 3.5-pound pull weight.
When capturing the Wilson it took a little bit of effort to coax one of the best accuracy from its iron sights. Even so, throughout all the 115- to 147-grain ammunition, the Wilson averaged just below 2 inches at 25 yards. Must you go for an SFX9, Wilson’s remanufactured 135-grain load delivered distinctive accuracy. Not solely is it a fantastic carry gun, however I’ve seen the SFX9 at a couple of sniper competitions being utilized by rivals searching for a lighter/smaller pistol when rucking miles and miles. Comparatively, the SFX9 with a 4.0-inch barrel is about the identical dimension as a Glock 19, however considerably extra refined.
Nice Purchase: Springfield Prodigy 4.25 inch AOS w/ Hex Dragonfly
Takeaway: Springfield Prodigy 4.25 inch AOS is reasonably priced but succesful, bringing the 2011 design to a broader viewers. With improved reliability and quite a lot of options, the Prodigy is a working man’s 2011 pistol.
Key Options
- Motion: Single-action, semi-auto
- Caliber: 9mm Luger
- Weight: 2 kilos 3 ounces (with Hex Dragonfly, no journal)
- Barrel: 4.25 inches
- Size: 7.75 inches
- End: Black Cerakote
- Set off pull weight: 4.75 kilos
- Security: Ambidextrous
- Magwell: No
- Common of all ammo, 25-yard group sizes (5-shots): 2.05 inches
- Most correct ammunition examined: Hornady Customized 124-grain XTP, 1.23 inches
- Journal Included: Duramag
- Worth: $1,699 (with Hex Dragonfly)
In our roundup of 2011s, there have been many very good however very costly pistols. Traditionally, 2011s carried a excessive value level as a result of they had been normally constructed by a gunsmith or they weren’t mass-produced with the identical economies of scale that different designs take pleasure in. Within the fall of 2022, Springfield Armory launched the Prodigy which is a extra reasonably priced 2011 design for the lots. With an MSRP of the bottom pistol at $1,499, Springfield made waves and created an attainable possibility for extra shooters. The actual query most customers have is, how does it stack as much as weapons costing double—and in some circumstances even 4 occasions as a lot?
Springfield did their homework on their 1911DS (double stack) possibility. For lots of us, myself included, we felt that given Springfield’s historical past with constructing 1911s that it was solely a matter of time earlier than they entered the 2011 realm.
Out of the field, the Prodigy is an effective trying pistol with options that test plenty of containers.
Early studies on the Springfield Prodigy indicated it had some reliability and biking issues, however Springfield did make a few tweaks and has been buzzing alongside since. Employees Author Tyler Freel wrote a thousand-round review of the 4.25-inch mannequin virtually a 12 months in the past, shortly after these tweaks had been made.
Our instance for this roundup shot very nicely, digesting all the things thrown at it. For this roundup, I obtained the pistol with a Hex Dragonfly mini red-dot sight. Fairly frankly, the pink dot was probably the most disappointing factor with the gun, providing vital curvature to the lens and a small window. As for the remainder of the pistol, it shot exceedingly nicely with the sphere of ammunition. The Prodigy delivered a stable efficiency with a median of two-inch teams at 25 yards throughout all the ammunition examined.
One other notable characteristic on the gun is the grip, which feels slightly wider within the hand than the opposite extra contoured choices examined. The serrations of the slide had been nicely achieved, the sides weren’t fastidiously eliminated like on the customized weapons, however there was sufficient end work achieved to maintain the pistol from being sharp. Concerning the set off, the pattern I examined measured 4.75 kilos however was simple to shoot nicely regardless of the upper weight.
With the Prodigy, Springfield has achieved what it does finest within the 1911 world, create a working man’s possibility that’s nice to shoot. There have been a couple of teething points with the primary manufacturing run of weapons, however Springfield has labored out these kinks and our current instance ran fairly nicely. Whether or not you desire a extra reasonably priced 2011, or a fantastic base gun to improve later, the Springfield Prodigy is a stable possibility.
Girsan 2311
Takeaway: The Girsan 2311 is an entry-level possibility, making the 2011 sample extra accessible. Whereas missing some refinement, the 2311 presents important options at a fraction of the value, and is a cost-effective double-stack 1911.
Key Options
- Motion: Single-action, semi-auto
- Caliber: 9mm Luger
- Weight: 1 kilos 12 ounces (with EAA FAR-DOT, no journal)
- Barrel: 4.25 inches
- Size: 8.06 inches
- End: Painted
- Set off pull weight: 5.5 kilos
- Security: Ambidextrous
- Magwell: Sure
- Common of all ammo, 25-yard group sizes (5-shots): 2.52 inches
- Most correct ammunition examined: Wilson Ammunition Reman 135-grain, 1.64 inches
- Journal Included: Checkmate
- MSRP: $999
Once we started the method of gathering pattern 2011-type pistols for our roundup, the Girsan 2311 had been introduced however the pistols weren’t within the nation but. We had been lucky to get one of many early weapons so as to add to our lineup. With an MSRP of $999, the Girsan is probably the most economical of the bunch. Made in Turkey, Girsan has been within the firearms enterprise for 30 years. The 2311 launch supplied probably the most economical choice to date for shooters.
Aesthetically, the 2311 just isn’t as refined as the opposite weapons, with a painted black end and fundamental polymer grip. Characteristic-wise although, it has ambidextrous security levers, outsized journal nicely, ahead slide serrations, prolonged controls, and a lightweight rail. It additionally got here with an EAA FAR-DOT pink dot sight that did want some zeroing. All thought of, the Girsan has lots of the options that the costlier choices have however at a fraction of the value.
So what’s the distinction between a $3,000 to $5,000 pistol and the Girsan? The Girsan is a fundamental possibility that works, however doesn’t have the hand-fitted components and workmanship of the opposite weapons. The set off as examined got here in round 5.5 kilos, with slightly grit within the takeup—although it did break crisply. Throughout my capturing, the 2311 was in a position to wrangle a 2.5 inch common for accuracy at 25 yards. The underside line, the Girsan 2311 works as an entry-level possibility for somebody eager to check out a 2011.
How one can Select a 2011
When trying to determine one of the best 2011 pistol to your wants, contemplate the next seven standards.
- Supposed Use/Software: With the plethora of choices obtainable, defining the aim of your 2011 selection ought to be your first motion. Given the choices to select from, figuring out if the pistol will function a self-defense, competitors, or basic vary use pistol will assist slender down the sphere.
- Worth: Set up a price range to your buy, factoring in any further prices for equipment or modifications. Discover a stability between options and price that meets your necessities.
- Barrel Size: The barrel size of a pistol just isn’t as essential for ballistic functions as it’s with rifles, however barrel size is essential relying on how you might be carrying/utilizing the pistol. Longer barrels supply better precision with iron-sights, whereas the prolonged size isn’t as essential if utilizing red-dot optics. Shorter barrels have a tendency to hide or carry higher and might also cycle quicker relying on the use and ammunition.
- Body Materials: Metal frames supply sturdiness and take in extra recoil however with a weight penalty, whereas aluminum frames cut back weight however could sacrifice some sturdiness.
- Grip Materials: Metallic grips present added weight and a few distinctive textures not doable with plastic grips. Polymer grips cut back weight and are usually inexpensive, whereas additionally providing simpler customization in case you are helpful with a Dremel or wish to stipple grips.
- Sighting System: Determine between conventional iron sights or optics-ready configurations based mostly in your desire. Some choices could be made for optics solely, whereas others supply the flexibleness to change between iron sights and red-dots with ease.
- Customization Degree: Are you proud of the established order of a manufacturing pistol, or would you like one thing particularly tuned to your preferences? With 2011s, there are alternatives throughout this whole spectrum.
Origin of the 2011 Pistol
Any severe pistolero ought to have some familiarity with the 1911 pattern of pistol. Adopted by the U.S. Military in 1911 because it’s issued sidearm, the 1911 has a storied historical past, serving in a pair of world wars, preventing on either side with lawmen and gangsters, profitable at Nationwide Match-level bullseye competitions and taking part in an integral function within the evolution of contemporary defensive and aggressive capturing disciplines.
Over time, the platform developed. One vital change within the late Nineteen Eighties was the introduction of double-stack 1911 variants, which gave rivals an enormous benefit over single-stack pistols. Notable designs emerged from Para Ordnance, Caspian, and the collaboration of Virgil Tripp and Sandy Strayer (with some assist from Chip McCormick) which grew to become often known as STI. The Tripp/Strayer design, patented in 1994 because the “2011,” featured a body with a modular polymer grip system able to accepting these double-stack magazines. Very similar to different format wars, one would turn into king and the STI design prevails immediately.
The Trendy 2011 Pistol
Quick ahead thirty years, and we discover the 2011 and different double-stack 1911 derivatives being amongst the newest “it” weapons for a number of causes. The expiration of the 2011 patent in 2016 opened the aggressive panorama, and coincided with numerous new gun homeowners and lovers, lots of whom had been searching for reasonably priced performance-enhancing pistols.
This introduced a brand new wave of entrepreneurs and producers into the gun enterprise. From entry-level selections just like the Springfield Prodigy and Girson 2311, to hand-built manufacturing and customized choices from Atlas Gunworks and Nighthawk Customized, the market has expanded to cowl a spectrum of budgets and options to match buyer needs or wants.
A big growth occurred a couple of years in the past when the aggressive shooting-focused STI underwent new possession and rebranded as Staccato. This shift in function redirected the main focus in the direction of defensive, duty-grade, and general-shooting pistols. Whereas quite a few customized outlets produce double-stack 1911s, Staccato has performed a pivotal function in making this style extra accessible to a wider viewers.
2011 Pistols Versus Double-Stack 1911s
The time period “2011” has generally been used as a shorthand reference for double-stack 1911s, but it surely’s essential to notice the precise traits outlined earlier. Though the 2011 patent has expired, Staccato holds a trademark for the title. To keep away from confusion, customers may use the time period “2011” generically, whereas producers could go for the extra particular and correct “double-stack 1911.”
Magazines for 2011 Pistols and Double-Stack 1911s
Reliability in any semi-automatic firearm relies on the ammunition feed supply, and in handguns that’s the journal. Pistol designs have achieved greatness or abysmal failure based mostly on the accompanying journal design. Famend firearms knowledgeable Ken Hackathorn aptly mentioned, “Anybody can design a firearm, nice designers could make dependable magazines.”
Each single-stack and double-stack 9mm 1911s have traditionally struggled with journal points because of the total size of the 9mm cartridge being a good quantity shorter than the unique .45 ACP. Whereas the .45 ACP sometimes measures 1.275 inches in total size, the 9mm, at its longest most size in response to SAAMI, is only one.169 inches. Although this fraction of an inch doesn’t sound like quite a bit, it makes a big distinction when attempting to place rounds and feed from the journal right into a chamber. It’s price noting that the majority different designs scale the 9mm and .45 ACP choices to account for this, whereas the 1911/2011 preserve a relentless dimension.
The 2011 sample has been round for a number of many years, but it surely was identified to be persnickety with journal reliability. For my part, the current meteoric rise in recognition has been enabled by enhancements to the journal. Traditionally, the first-generation designs of double-stack 1911 magazines, together with the STI sample, required a visit to a gunsmith for tuning to the precise gun, in addition to common upkeep to maintain peak efficiency.
For aggressive shooters, it meant treating your race gun like a race automotive and doing the upkeep to get the efficiency. Nevertheless, the appearance of ultra-reliable polymer pistols just like the various Glock models has shifted shopper perceptions in regards to the necessity of standard cleansing.
STI’s introduction of the second-generation journal design performed a pivotal function in enhancing reliability. Presently, Staccato presents a fair higher third-generation journal identified for its reliability, and different respected choices can be found from Atlas Gunworks and MBX magazines.
2011 Pistol Journal Size: 126mm vs 140mm vs 170mm
When trying to find magazines for 9mm chambered 2011s, you might encounter lengths as an alternative of capacities. This dimension specification corresponds to USPSA/IPSC total size necessities, explaining why magazines are sometimes listed on this method. Some producers, equivalent to Atlas and MBX, supply magazines with a skinny follower that forestalls the slide from locking again however present most capability. Alternatively, choosing one much less spherical of capability permits the slide to lock again with a distinct follower design. Staccato magazines, then again, come commonplace with a follower designed to lock the slide to the rear. Numerous ground plate choices additional improve capability.
Usually talking, the next lengths equate to the next capacities:
- 126mm: 17 rounds of 9mm, flush-fitting
- 140mm: 20 to 21 rounds of 9mm, protrudes barely from the grip
- 170mm: 25 to 26 rounds of 9mm, the large stick journal
Closing Ideas on 2011 Pistols and 1911 Double-Stacks
The world of double-stack 1911s has skilled a exceptional resurgence and has developed past being a specialised aggressive pistol. This explosive development of curiosity is yet one more chapter within the storied historical past of the 1911 and 2011 households of pistols. The double-stack 1911 originated with pistols from Para Ordnance, Caspian, and the famend collaboration between Virgil Tripp and Sandy Strayer, ensuing within the iconic STI 2011.
This evolution continues immediately, with producers like Staccato, Atlas Gunworks, Nighthawk Customized, Masterpiece Arms, Vudoo Gunworks, Wilson Fight, Springfield Armory, and Girsan providing a spectrum of choices catering to varied budgets and preferences.
With the varied choices obtainable, there’s a double-stack 1911 for each fanatic and practically each price range, whether or not you’re a aggressive shooter, a self-defense advocate, or just somebody who appreciates the craftsmanship and efficiency of those iconic pistols.
