American Tactical M1911A1

Published on September 2, 2018
Duration: 13:36

This review of the American Tactical M1911A1 highlights its affordability and faithfulness to the GI M1911A1 design. The instructor notes its impressive machining for its $400 price point and its reliability after extensive shooting. While acknowledging the inherent safety concerns of a non-firing pin safety design, the video provides a detailed disassembly and reassembly guide, emphasizing its potential as a customizable platform for new shooters.

Quick Summary

The American Tactical M1911A1 is an affordable handgun manufactured in the Philippines, priced around $400, and designed as a faithful reproduction of the GI M1911A1. It offers impressive machining and reliability for its cost, serving as a solid baseline for customization, though it lacks a firing pin block, posing a safety risk if dropped.

Chapters

  1. 00:02Introduction to American Tactical M1911A1
  2. 00:28Model and Origin: Philippines Manufactured
  3. 00:33GI M1911A1 Design Comparison
  4. 00:48Affordability and Entry into Shooting
  5. 01:13Price Point and Value Proposition
  6. 01:31Building Block for Customization
  7. 02:03Basic Combat Pistol Setup
  8. 02:09Comparison to Other 1911s (Rattle)
  9. 02:26Quality and Machining Assessment
  10. 02:34Durability and Round Count
  11. 03:00Reliability and Malfunction-Free Operation
  12. 03:04Accuracy of a Combat Pistol
  13. 03:15Ergonomic Considerations (Spur Hammer)
  14. 03:34Trigger Pull Weight
  15. 03:46Magazine Compatibility
  16. 04:05Ammunition Used
  17. 04:191911 Safeties: Grip and Manual
  18. 04:33Carrying Cocked and Locked Debate
  19. 04:45Military Version: No Firing Pin Block
  20. 04:51Safety Risk: Dropping the Pistol
  21. 05:03Forensic Case Study: Accidental Discharge
  22. 06:01Riding the Hammer Forward Danger
  23. 06:14The Uselessness of an Unloaded Gun
  24. 06:49Disassembly Procedure
  25. 07:27Frame and Slide Machining Quality
  26. 08:07Barrel Link Retention Improvement
  27. 08:24Standard Components
  28. 08:27Customization Potential
  29. 08:41Trigger Upgrade Options
  30. 09:09Component Quality for Upgrades
  31. 09:11Match Barrel Installation
  32. 09:24Live Cartridge Indicator
  33. 09:37Reassembly Procedure
  34. 10:33Available Models: Standard, Commander, Officer's
  35. 10:45Match Models with Bells and Whistles
  36. 10:51Preference for Stock Military Style
  37. 10:58Excellent Pistol for Standard Military Grade
  38. 11:07Range Test Preview
  39. 12:31M1911's Enduring Popularity
  40. 12:46Affordable 1911 Entry Point
  41. 12:56Path to Customized Pistols
  42. 13:12Overall Well-Made Pistol
  43. 13:20Call to Action: Questions and Engagement

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the American Tactical M1911A1?

The American Tactical M1911A1 is an affordable handgun manufactured in the Philippines, designed as a faithful reproduction of the classic GI M1911A1. It's priced around $400, making it an accessible entry point for those interested in the 1911 platform.

How reliable is the American Tactical M1911A1?

The instructor reports that the American Tactical M1911A1 has been very reliable, with no malfunctions experienced even after extensive shooting, estimated to be close to 1,000 rounds. Its accuracy is considered acceptable for a combat pistol.

What are the safety concerns with the American Tactical M1911A1?

A primary safety concern is the absence of a firing pin block, common in military-style 1911s. The instructor highlights that dropping the pistol can lead to accidental discharge due to firing pin inertia, a risk demonstrated in forensic cases.

Can the American Tactical M1911A1 be customized?

Yes, the American Tactical M1911A1 is presented as an excellent baseline firearm for customization. Shooters can gradually upgrade components like the trigger group, hammer, barrel, and sights as their budget allows, turning it into a more specialized pistol over time.

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