Live Free Armory Apollo 11 - American Made 2011 style gun sub $1000

Published on December 17, 2023
Duration: 12:07

This comprehensive review details a 1000-round reliability test of the Live Free Armory Apollo 11, an American-made 2011-style pistol priced under $1000. Expert analysis covers build quality, trigger performance, potential issues with MIM components, and shooting dynamics. The review highlights that while offering good value, the Apollo 11 may require tuning for optimal reliability, making it a suitable option for those willing to perform minor adjustments.

Quick Summary

The Live Free Armory Apollo 11 is an American-made, 2011-style pistol under $1000, featuring a 5-inch bull barrel and RMSC optic cut. A 1000-round test revealed nearly double-digit stoppages, highlighting potential reliability concerns with MIM parts that may require tuning for optimal performance.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Apollo 11 Overview
  2. 00:10Pricing and Market Context
  3. 01:10Build Quality: Grip Module, Trigger, Slide
  4. 02:26Slide Stop and Slide Issues
  5. 02:54Trigger Pull Characteristics
  6. 03:14Controls and Grip Bushings
  7. 04:14Internal Specs and Optic Cut
  8. 04:47Shooting Performance
  9. 05:01Manufacturing Materials (MIM parts)
  10. 05:29Slide Stop Breakage and Support
  11. 06:13MIM Ambi Safeties
  12. 06:23Included Accessories
  13. 07:33Reliability Test Results Introduction
  14. 07:51Initial Reliability Issues (0-550 Rounds)
  15. 08:46Continued Reliability Issues (550-1000 Rounds)
  16. 10:04Failures to Feed and Cold Weather
  17. 10:39Reassembly Difficulty and Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Live Free Armory Apollo 11?

The Live Free Armory Apollo 11 is an American-made, 2011-style semi-automatic pistol designed to be an affordable option, typically priced under $1000. It features a 5-inch bull barrel and is available in various finishes.

What were the reliability issues found during the 1000-round test of the Apollo 11?

During a 1000-round test, the Apollo 11 experienced nearly double-digit stoppages, including slide stop failures, failures to lock back, stovepipes, failures to extract, and failures to feed, particularly with NATO ammunition and in colder weather.

What are the potential concerns with the Apollo 11's construction?

A significant concern is the use of Metal Injection Molded (MIM) parts for components like the slide stop and ambi safeties, which can be less durable than machined parts and may lead to breakage, as observed with the slide stop failing early on.

How does the Apollo 11 compare to other 2011-style pistols?

Priced under $1000, the Apollo 11 competes with other budget-friendly 2011-style pistols like the Girsan Witness 2311. It offers a similar platform but may require internal upgrades for enhanced reliability compared to higher-end models like the Springfield Armory Prodigy.

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