Here's Why THESE Handguns Are Quickly GROWING In Popularity!

Published on September 28, 2025
Duration: 9:27

This video highlights the growing popularity of the 2011 platform, an evolution of the classic 1911. It emphasizes their double-stack capacity, hammer-fired single-action triggers, and modern features like optic cuts and ambidextrous safeties. While offering a significant upgrade over traditional 1911s, the wider grip may not suit all hand sizes, making them excellent range options.

Quick Summary

The 2011 handgun platform is rapidly gaining popularity by merging the classic appeal of the 1911 with modern enhancements. Key features include double-stack magazines for increased capacity, hammer-fired single-action triggers, and common additions like optic-ready slides and ambidextrous safeties, making them a compelling choice for range use and competition.

Chapters

  1. 00:05Introduction at Gunner Firearms
  2. 00:58The Rise of the 2011 Platform
  3. 01:012011 vs. 1911: Double Stack Design
  4. 01:14Available Calibers for 2011s
  5. 01:26Single Action Trigger Appeal
  6. 01:50Hammer-Fired, Single-Action Operation
  7. 02:05Safety Features: External and Backstrap
  8. 02:49Optic Ready Handguns
  9. 03:32Kimber 2011 with Trijicon SRO
  10. 04:08Trigger Options and Resets
  11. 04:30Magwell and Frame Construction
  12. 05:022011 vs. Polymer Handguns
  13. 05:16Carry vs. Range Use for 2011s
  14. 05:36The Appeal of Single Action Triggers
  15. 05:471911 Design Legacy
  16. 06:11The 2011 as an Upgrade
  17. 06:34Why People Still Carry 1911s
  18. 07:06Modernizing the Classic Design
  19. 07:15Mashup of Modern and Classic
  20. 07:40Ergonomic Considerations for 2011s
  21. 08:13Try Before You Buy
  22. 08:22Conclusion on 2011 Popularity
  23. 08:45Thanks and Farewell

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the 2011 handgun platform so popular?

The 2011 platform is popular because it combines the beloved single-action trigger and classic aesthetics of the 1911 with modern enhancements like double-stack magazines for higher capacity, optic-ready slides, and often ambidextrous safeties, offering a significant upgrade for many shooters.

How does a 2011 differ from a traditional 1911 handgun?

The primary difference is capacity: 2011s feature double-stack magazines, significantly increasing round count over the single-stack magazines of traditional 1911s. They also commonly include modern features like optic cuts and ambidextrous safeties, which are less common on older 1911 designs.

Are 2011 handguns suitable for concealed carry?

While some 2011s can be carried concealed, their double-stack design often results in a wider grip frame, which may be less comfortable or concealable for individuals with smaller hands. They are often considered excellent range or competition firearms due to their capacity and trigger.

What type of trigger mechanism do 2011 handguns use?

2011 handguns are hammer-fired and operate in a single-action-only (SAO) mode. This means the hammer must be cocked, typically by racking the slide, before the trigger can be pulled to fire the weapon. They are known for their crisp, light triggers.

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