From the Vault: Marine Corps M45A1 Pistol

Published on December 27, 2019
Duration: 4:42

This video provides an in-depth look at the Colt M45A1, a variant of the 1911 pistol originally intended for the US Marine Corps. The presenters highlight its unique features, including the extended Picatinny rail, Novak night sights, and Flat Dark Earth Cerakote finish. They discuss its significance as potentially the last 1911 variant used in military service and its eventual civilian market release after contract cancellation. The video also touches on the transition of military sidearms to polymer-framed, striker-fired pistols like the Glock 19 and SIG P320.

Quick Summary

The Colt M45A1, or 'Rail Gun,' was a USMC M1911 variant canceled by contract but later sold civilian. It's notable as potentially the last 1911 in military service, featuring a Picatinny rail, Novak night sights, and Flat Dark Earth Cerakote.

Chapters

  1. 00:08Introduction with Keith Four and Steve Ostrom
  2. 00:15USMC 1911s from the Vault
  3. 00:23Contract Cancellation and Civilian Sale
  4. 00:45Last 1911 in Military Service
  5. 00:51The M45A1 Rail Gun
  6. 01:00Picatinny Rail Extension
  7. 01:15US Markings and EGA
  8. 01:29Pistol Features: Hammer, Safety, Sights
  9. 01:44Novak Night Sights
  10. 01:56Cerakote Finish and Flat Dark Earth
  11. 02:05Wilson Combat Magazines
  12. 02:21Cocking Serrations and G10 Grips
  13. 02:34Passing of an Era
  14. 02:59Transition to Glock 19 and SIG P320
  15. 03:56Three Stars Marking Significance
  16. 04:14Consecutively Serial Numbered Guns
  17. 04:17Thanks to Rock Island Auction House
  18. 04:24Conclusion and Next Episode Tease

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Colt M45A1 pistol?

The Colt M45A1, also known as the 'Rail Gun,' is a variant of the M1911 pistol that was originally ordered by the US Marine Corps. Although the order was canceled, Colt was allowed to sell these pistols on the civilian market after removing the USMC markings.

What makes the M45A1 significant in military firearms history?

The M45A1 is considered significant as it may be the last M1911 variant to have been used in military service. Its existence represents the twilight of the 1911 platform's official military career before the widespread adoption of polymer-framed pistols.

What are the key features of the USMC M45A1?

The M45A1 features a prominent Picatinny rail extension on its dust cover, Novak front and rear night sights, an extended safety, a beaver tail safety, and a Flat Dark Earth Cerakote finish. It also came equipped with Wilson Combat magazines.

Why are military forces transitioning away from 1911 pistols?

The transition is largely due to the advantages offered by modern polymer-framed, striker-fired pistols like the Glock 19 and SIG P320. These newer platforms typically offer higher magazine capacity, are lighter, and are often easier for armorers to maintain and modify.

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