Detonics MkI: The Original Sub-Compact 1911

Published on November 23, 2015
Duration: 10:56

This guide details the disassembly and unique mechanical features of the Detonics MkI Combat Master, the pioneering compact .45 ACP 1911. It covers the historical development by Pat Yates and Detonics, the innovative dual recoil spring system, and the industry-standard flared barrel design. Expert insights from Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons are provided.

Quick Summary

The Detonics MkI Combat Master was the first commercial compact .45 ACP 1911, developed by former Explosives Corporation (Excoa) employees who acquired Pat Yates' patent. It featured a 3.5-inch barrel, a 6-round magazine, a dual recoil spring system, and a pioneering flared barrel design that eliminated the traditional bushing, setting a new standard for compact 1911s.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Detonics MkI
  2. 01:10Pat Yates and Origins
  3. 02:53Formation of Detonics
  4. 04:11External Features and Magazine
  5. 05:22Ergonomic Innovations
  6. 06:52Internal Mechanics: Recoil System
  7. 08:01The Flared Barrel Design
  8. 09:25Legacy and Pop Culture

Frequently Asked Questions

What made the Detonics MkI Combat Master significant in firearm history?

The Detonics MkI Combat Master was historically significant as the first commercially successful compact .45 ACP 1911 pistol, pioneering innovations like a dual recoil spring system and a flared barrel design for improved reliability in a smaller package.

How did Detonics address the challenges of creating a compact 1911?

Detonics tackled the challenges of shortening a 1911 by developing a dual, counter-wound recoil spring assembly on a captive guide rod and implementing a flared barrel design that locked directly into the slide, eliminating the traditional bushing.

Who was Pat Yates and what was his role in the Detonics MkI's development?

Pat Yates was an explosives enthusiast in the mid-1960s who began modifying 1911 frames to create more concealable versions. His patent for these modifications was later acquired by Detonics, forming the basis for the MkI.

What are the key mechanical innovations of the Detonics MkI Combat Master?

The Detonics MkI's key innovations include its dual, counter-wound recoil spring assembly for enhanced recoil management and its flared barrel design, which eliminated the need for a barrel bushing and became an industry standard for compact 1911s.

Related News

All News →

More Gunsmithing & DIY Videos You Might Like

More from Forgotten Weapons

View all →