Colt Custom Shop M45A1 - So What Happened?

Published on July 29, 2022
Duration: 27:30

This expert review of the Colt Custom Shop M45A1, led by a firearms instructor with deep technical knowledge, critically analyzes its performance, fitment, and market value. The analysis highlights the pistol's historical significance with MARSOC and Force Recon, while also pointing out significant flaws in its custom shop fit and finish, questioning the value proposition against its high price point and secondary market cost. The review emphasizes that buyers are often paying for the Colt legacy rather than superior build quality compared to other high-end custom 1911s.

Quick Summary

The Colt Custom Shop M45A1, while historically significant for MARSOC and Force Recon, faces criticism for its fitment and finish. Despite a premium price and high secondary market value, issues like slide-to-frame rattle and magwell gaps are noted, leading experts to question if buyers are paying for legacy over superior custom quality.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Colt's Legacy and the M45A1
  2. 01:38The Whiskey Analogy: Price vs. Value
  3. 04:29History of the M45A1
  4. 06:45Custom Shop vs. Production Models
  5. 10:05Shooting Performance and Recoil
  6. 11:52Fitment and Tolerance Issues
  7. 13:22Magwell and Grip Criticisms
  8. 15:46Sights, Safety, and Coating
  9. 17:12Final Verdict: Name vs. Quality

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key historical details about the Colt M45A1?

The Colt M45A1 served as the official pistol for the US Marine Corps Special Operations (MARSOC) and Force Recon. Colt was contracted to produce 4,000 units in 2012 and another 12,000 in 2014, featuring specific military-requested upgrades.

What are the main criticisms of the Colt Custom Shop M45A1's build quality?

The primary criticisms focus on poor slide-to-frame and barrel bushing fitment, resulting in noticeable rattle. Additionally, issues with magwell installation and visible gaps between components are highlighted as unacceptable for a Custom Shop firearm.

How does the Colt M45A1's value proposition hold up against its price?

The review suggests that buyers often pay a premium for the Colt name and military history rather than superior custom build quality. Secondary market prices can be significantly higher than the estimated Custom Shop MSRP, making value assessment critical.

What are the notable features of the Colt M45A1?

The Colt M45A1 features a distinctive 'brown coating,' ambidextrous safeties, Novak tritium sights, a dual recoil spring system, and a national match barrel. The reviewed model is a Custom Shop variant with specific customer-requested enhancements.

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