Colt Double Action 1911 Handgun the Double Eagle

Published on January 2, 2017
Duration: 19:06

This guide details the field stripping process for the Colt Double Eagle, highlighting its relationship to the 1911 platform. The video's expert assessment notes the interchangeability of slides and barrels, while also critically examining the Double Eagle's design as an 'abomination' attempting to modernize the 1911 with a double-action mechanism. The speaker's high authority level, demonstrated through deep technical and historical knowledge, informs the critical review of this firearm's ergonomics and reliability issues.

Quick Summary

The Colt Double Eagle is a double-action variant of the 1911 pistol, produced from 1989-1997. While it offered a smooth double-action trigger and was available in calibers like .45 ACP and 10mm, it suffered from poor ergonomics and reliability issues, leading to its reputation as a 'Colt flop' and making it primarily a collector's item.

Chapters

  1. 00:10Colt 1911 Series 80 Introduction
  2. 02:18Introduction of the Colt Double Eagle
  3. 03:08Design and History
  4. 05:45Shooting Performance
  5. 11:12Field Stripping and Comparison
  6. 13:38Final Assessment

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Colt Double Eagle?

The Colt Double Eagle is a double-action variant of the classic Colt 1911 pistol, introduced in the late 1980s. It attempted to modernize the 1911 platform by incorporating a double-action trigger mechanism, but faced criticism for its ergonomics and reliability.

Why was the Colt Double Eagle considered a failure?

The Colt Double Eagle is often referred to as a 'Colt flop' due to significant ergonomic issues, including a thick grip and a tendency to point low. Reliability concerns also contributed to its poor reception, making it more of a collector's item than a practical firearm.

What are the technical specifications of the Colt Double Eagle?

The Colt Double Eagle was offered in various calibers like .45 ACP, 9mm, and 10mm. A .45 ACP model typically features a 5-inch barrel, an overall length of 8.5 inches, a weight of 42.5 oz, and a capacity of 7+1 or 8+1 rounds. Production ran from 1989 to 1997.

Can the Colt Double Eagle's parts be interchanged with a standard 1911?

During field stripping, it was demonstrated that the slides and barrels of the Colt Double Eagle are largely interchangeable with those of a standard Colt 1911 Series 80. However, the frame's double-action mechanism makes it a distinct design.

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