EAA Girsan Witness 2311 CMXX 45 Tabletop Review and Field Strip

Published on June 6, 2026
Duration: 17:54

This video provides a detailed tabletop review and field strip of the EAA Girsan Witness 2311 CMXX in .45 ACP. The review covers what's in the box, manual notes, fit, finish, and features, including the enhanced grip texture, lack of a grip safety with an 80 series firing pin block, and the integrated compensator. The field strip process is demonstrated, highlighting potential difficulties with the recoil spring and takedown pin on a new firearm. The presenter also discusses the pistol's ergonomics, sight options, and the unique compensator design which appears to be part of the barrel.

Quick Summary

The EAA Girsan Witness 2311 CMXX in .45 ACP features an enhanced grip, an 80 series safety (no grip safety), and an integrated compensator that appears to be part of the barrel. Field stripping can be challenging on new models due to a stiff recoil spring and takedown pin.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Previous Model Mention
  2. 00:20Witness 2311 CMXX 45 Tabletop Review & Field Strip Intro
  3. 00:33Housekeeping: GB Guns Depot for Full Content
  4. 01:00What's in the Box: Manual, Pistol, Magazine, Tools
  5. 01:08Optics Cut & Included Accessories
  6. 01:10Magazine Details: Checkmate, .45 ACP, Double Stack
  7. 01:33Notes from the Manual: Safety & Clarity
  8. 01:55Manual Specs & Ammunition Notes
  9. 02:02Key Differences: No Grip Safety, 80 Series Safety
  10. 02:17Manual Photos & Field Strip Preview
  11. 02:24Introducing the Witness 2311 CMXX 45
  12. 02:28Enhanced Grip Texture
  13. 02:48No Grip Safety, 80 Series Firing Pin Block
  14. 02:57Ergonomics: Filling the Hand, Grip Diameter
  15. 03:01Sight Change: Simpler Rear Sight
  16. 03:14The CMXX Compensator
  17. 03:27Compensator as Part of the Barrel
  18. 03:39Compensator on a Shorter Barrel (.45 ACP)
  19. 03:53Full Length Rail & Fit
  20. 04:04Guide Rod & Disassembly
  21. 04:15Lightening Cuts & Traction
  22. 04:19Front of Trigger Guard Traction & Undercut
  23. 04:38Magwell Comparison: CMXX vs. Match
  24. 04:57Relief for Magazine Grip and Strip
  25. 05:04Manual Safety (MB Safeties)
  26. 05:10Slide to Frame Fit & Factory Sights
  27. 05:30Field Strip: Initial Difficulty & Spring Stiffness
  28. 05:40Takedown Pin Mechanism
  29. 06:03Takedown Pin Removal Process
  30. 06:39Slide Removal & Frame Inspection
  31. 06:49Fixed Ejector & Ejection Dynamics
  32. 06:59Slide Internals: AV Series Safety Dingus
  33. 07:07Guide Rod & Flat Coil Spring
  34. 07:41Barrel & Compensator: One Piece?
  35. 07:55Cleaning Considerations
  36. 08:03Break-in Period & Lubrication
  37. 08:25Reassembly Process
  38. 08:41Function Check & Range Video Preview
  39. 08:55Range Video Content Preview
  40. 09:11Concluding Thoughts & GB Guns Depot Reminder

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key differences of the EAA Girsan Witness 2311 CMXX compared to other 1911-style pistols?

The CMXX model notably lacks a traditional grip safety, instead featuring an 80 series safety with a firing pin block. It also includes an integrated compensator, enhanced grip texture, and a slightly less flared magwell for potentially better carry comfort.

How is the field stripping process for the EAA Girsan Witness 2311 CMXX?

Field stripping involves removing the slide release pin, which can be stiff on new firearms. The process requires aligning a notch on the slide release and pushing the pin out. The recoil spring is also noted as being quite stiff.

What type of optics can be mounted on the EAA Girsan Witness 2311 CMXX?

The pistol is cut for RMSC pattern optics. An Allen wrench is included with the firearm to assist in removing the optics plate for mounting your chosen red dot sight.

What is the purpose of the compensator on the Witness 2311 CMXX?

The integrated compensator on the CMXX model is designed to help reduce muzzle rise by directing gas upwards. Its top-venting ports aim to provide downward force, potentially making follow-up shots quicker and more controllable.

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