This Old Gun: Remington Rand M1911A1

Published on April 29, 2020
Duration: 8:11

This video details the significant role of Remington Rand in producing the M1911A1 pistol during World War II. It highlights that Remington Rand, a typewriter manufacturer, became the largest producer of these pistols, surpassing Colt. The content also touches upon the key visual differences between the M1911 and M1911A1 models, such as the relieved frame behind the trigger and the arched mainspring housing.

Quick Summary

Remington Rand was the largest producer of M1911A1 pistols during World War II, manufacturing over 900,000 units. Originally a typewriter manufacturer, they adapted their facilities to meet wartime demand, overcoming initial production challenges and parts interchangeability issues to become a key supplier.

Chapters

  1. 00:05Remington Rand's M1911A1 Production Dominance
  2. 00:22WWII National Mobilization and Industry
  3. 00:45M1911A1 Pistol Production During Conflict
  4. 01:17Five Manufacturers of the M1911A1
  5. 01:36Remington Rand's M1911A1 Output
  6. 01:54History of Remington Rand
  7. 02:24Remington and Sons Typewriter Invention
  8. 03:11Rand Corporation and Typewriter Business
  9. 03:37Remington Rand's Handgun Manufacturing Role
  10. 04:03M1911A1 as State-of-the-Art
  11. 04:22M1911A1 Modifications and Upgrades
  12. 04:36Visual Differences: M1911 vs. M1911A1
  13. 04:46Frame Relief Behind Trigger
  14. 05:06Arched Mainspring Housing
  15. 05:25Identifying the M1911A1
  16. 05:34Remington Rand's Federal Contract
  17. 05:50First M1911A1 Contract Details
  18. 06:00Remington Rand's Production Challenges
  19. 06:21Addressing Interchangeability Issues
  20. 06:37Production Progress in May 1943
  21. 06:47Consistency and Straight-Line Production
  22. 07:16Characteristics of Five Manufacturers
  23. 07:33Caution with Remington Rand Serial Numbers
  24. 07:47Dealing with M1911A1 Manufacturers

Frequently Asked Questions

Who was the largest producer of M1911A1 pistols during World War II?

Remington Rand was the largest producer of M1911A1 pistols during World War II, manufacturing over 900,000 units. This significantly surpassed other contractors like Colt, Ithaca, Union Switch & Signal, and Singer Sewing Machine.

What was Remington Rand's original industry before manufacturing M1911A1 pistols?

Before producing M1911A1 pistols for the US government during WWII, Remington Rand was primarily known as a major manufacturer of typewriters. The company was founded in 1875 and became one of the world's largest typewriter producers.

What are the key visual differences between a M1911 and a M1911A1 pistol?

The M1911A1 has two main visual distinctions from the M1911: a relieved area behind the trigger guard for better finger access, and an arched mainspring housing at the rear of the grip, which alters the gun's profile.

Did Remington Rand have prior experience in firearm manufacturing before the M1911A1 contract?

No, Remington Rand had no prior experience or equipment for manufacturing pistols when they received the M1911A1 contract. They initially relied on acquiring parts from other firearm companies to begin assembly.

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