Colt Custom Shop M45-A1 CQB 1911 Review

Published on February 26, 2019
Duration: 18:33

This review of the Colt M45A1 Custom Shop CQB 1911 highlights its historical significance with the US Marine Corps and its modern upgrades. The video details its construction, features like dual recoil springs and Novak sights, and provides a step-by-step guide for disassembly and reassembly. It emphasizes the firearm's robust build, accuracy potential, and its place as a high-end 1911 option.

Quick Summary

The Colt M45A1 Custom Shop CQB 1911 offers significant upgrades over standard models, including dual recoil springs for reduced recoil, a National Match barrel for enhanced accuracy, and Trijicon tritium night sights. Its robust all-steel construction and custom shop hand-fitting make it a premium choice for 1911 enthusiasts.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Colt M45A1
  2. 00:59Historical Context: 1911 in US Military Service
  3. 01:51Development of the M45A1
  4. 02:35Sourcing the M45A1
  5. 03:15Safety Check and Initial Inspection
  6. 03:24Slide Operation and Dual Recoil Springs
  7. 03:50Custom Shop Production Benefits
  8. 04:03Magazines and Lanyard Loop
  9. 04:30Mainspring Housing and Finish Options
  10. 04:45Armor Black Slide and McMillan Gray Frame
  11. 05:09Finish Durability and Maintenance
  12. 05:28Front Slide Serrations and Accessory Rail
  13. 05:51Beaver Tail and Grip Safety
  14. 06:02Commander Hammer and Skeletonization
  15. 06:15Ambidextrous Extended Safeties
  16. 06:29Slide Stop and Novak Sights
  17. 06:39Trijicon Tritium Night Sights
  18. 06:51Trigger and Series 80 Firing Pin Block
  19. 07:03Single Action Operation
  20. 07:36VZ G10 Grips and Checkering
  21. 08:09Colt Markings and US Engraving
  22. 08:26EGA Marking and Serial Number
  23. 08:29Barrel Length and National Match Barrel
  24. 08:44Comparison to Colt 70 Series
  25. 09:34Weight Comparison
  26. 09:41Trigger Pull Test
  27. 10:20Ammunition Used (Fiocchi 45 ACP)
  28. 10:36Range Test and Shooting Impressions
  29. 10:56Recoil Mitigation and Heft
  30. 11:20Shooting Experience with 45 ACP
  31. 11:33Grip and Control Assessment
  32. 11:46Pointability and Shootability
  33. 11:56Disassembly Procedure
  34. 13:14Internal Components and 80 Series Design
  35. 13:261911 Design Simplicity
  36. 13:30Reassembly Procedure
  37. 14:11Avoiding the 'Idiot Scratch'
  38. 14:47Included Case and Accessories
  39. 15:04Factory 5-Shot Group
  40. 15:11Custom Shop Build Quality
  41. 15:22Pricing and Value Proposition
  42. 15:59Pros and Cons Summary
  43. 16:18Key Upgrades and Benefits
  44. 16:41Overall Recommendation
  45. 16:55Sponsor Appreciation and Closing Remarks

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Colt M45A1 stand out from standard 1911s?

The Colt M45A1 stands out due to its Custom Shop origin, featuring hand-fitting and fine-tuning. It incorporates dual recoil springs for reduced recoil, a National Match barrel for accuracy, an M1913 accessory rail, and Trijicon tritium night sights, offering significant upgrades over traditional 1911 models.

What is the historical significance of the Colt M45A1?

The Colt M45A1 is a descendant of the iconic Colt 1911, which served as the standard sidearm for the US military for decades. The M45A1 was specifically developed for the US Marine Corps, retaining the .45 ACP caliber for its self-defense effectiveness and incorporating modern enhancements for combat readiness.

How does the dual recoil spring system affect the shooting experience of the M45A1?

The dual recoil springs in the Colt M45A1, adapted from their 10mm platform, significantly help to stabilize the firearm. This system reduces felt recoil and muzzle flip, leading to a flatter shooting experience and making follow-up shots quicker and more accurate.

What are the key features of the Colt M45A1's sights and ergonomics?

The M45A1 is equipped with Novak sights featuring Trijicon tritium inserts for low-light visibility. Ergonomically, it boasts VZ G10 grips and aggressive 25 LPI front strap checkering, providing a secure and confident grip, complemented by a high-ride beaver tail for positive grip safety engagement.

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