Iver Johnson Hawk Polished Commander 1911 (cast frame)

Published on August 4, 2020
Duration: 18:46

This review provides a critical assessment of the Iver Johnson Hawk Polished Commander 1911, highlighting its attractive price point and Commander size suitable for carry. The expert instructor details extensive range testing, including evaluations of magazine reliability, trigger pull weight (measured at over 6 lbs), and a thorough examination of fit, finish, and potential manufacturing defects like sub-surface pitting. While acknowledging its features, the review emphasizes the need for potential "1911 dance" to ensure reliable function, making it suitable for intermediate users familiar with 1911 platforms.

Quick Summary

The Iver Johnson Hawk Polished Commander 1911 is a Commander-sized .45 ACP pistol with a Series 70 design, featuring a cast steel frame and 4.25-inch barrel. While priced attractively around $749, it exhibits potential reliability issues with magazine compatibility and feeding, along with finish defects like sub-surface pitting and a heavy trigger pull (over 6 lbs).

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Iver Johnson Hawk 1911
  2. 00:49Range Testing: Ammunition & Holster
  3. 01:02Magazine Reliability Testing
  4. 02:01Construction & Origin Details
  5. 02:41Fit and Finish Assessment
  6. 03:48Reliability Concerns: Feeding & Ejection
  7. 05:09Internal Specifications: Series 70 Design
  8. 06:21Sponsor Segment: Kore Essentials Belts
  9. 09:47Safety Lever Assessment
  10. 11:37Trigger Pull & Shooting Performance
  11. 14:41Finish Quality Issues: Pitting
  12. 15:29Sights and Barrel Length
  13. 17:33Conclusion and Pricing

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key features of the Iver Johnson Hawk Polished Commander 1911?

The Iver Johnson Hawk Polished Commander 1911 is a Commander-sized, single-action-only (Series 70) .45 ACP pistol featuring a cast steel frame and slide, weighing 38 oz with a 4.25-inch barrel. It includes a high-rise beavertail, skeletonized hammer, and extended slide stop.

What reliability issues were observed with the Iver Johnson Hawk Polished Commander 1911?

During testing, the Iver Johnson Hawk Polished Commander 1911 exhibited feeding issues and magazine ejection problems, particularly when using Checkmate magazines and certain types of ammunition, suggesting potential compatibility or manufacturing tolerance concerns.

How is the trigger pull and finish quality of the Iver Johnson Hawk Polished Commander 1911?

The trigger pull was measured at over 6 lbs 11.5 oz, considered heavy for a 1911, though it has a decent reset. The blued finish, while polished, showed signs of sub-surface pitting or rust on the slide, indicating potential quality control issues.

What is the price and overall value assessment of the Iver Johnson Hawk Polished Commander 1911?

With an MSRP around $749.00, the Iver Johnson Hawk Polished Commander 1911 is positioned as an attractive budget option. However, the review suggests it may require some "1911 dance" (tuning and attention) to ensure reliable function, making its value dependent on user expectations and willingness to perform adjustments.

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