NRA Gun Gear of the Week: Dan Wesson Vigil Commander

Published on August 24, 2018
Duration: 7:35

This review of the Dan Wesson Vigil Commander 1911 highlights its suitability for everyday carry, emphasizing its commander size (4.25-inch barrel), affordable MSRP around $1,300, and a feature set tailored for concealed carry. The presenter, Joe Kurtenbach, praises its plain black rear and bright front dot sights with tritium, its crisp single-action trigger, and aggressive grip texturing for control, available in 9mm or .45 ACP.

Quick Summary

The Dan Wesson Vigil Commander is a commander-sized 1911 pistol ideal for everyday carry, featuring a 4.25-inch barrel, a crisp single-action trigger, and effective sights with tritium. With an MSRP around $1,300, it offers high-quality features at an accessible price point, available in 9mm or .45 ACP.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Dan Wesson Vigil Commander for EDC
  2. 00:18History of Dan Wesson Firearms
  3. 01:40Vigil Commander: A New 2018 Introduction
  4. 02:01Affordable Entry-Level Dan Wesson
  5. 02:45Commander Size 1911 Explained
  6. 03:22Preferred Sights: Plain Black Rear, Bright Front Dot
  7. 04:09The 1911 Single Action Trigger
  8. 04:42Manual Safeties: Thumb and Grip Safety
  9. 04:56Grip and Purchase for Recoil Control
  10. 06:00Aluminum Alloy Frame for Reduced Weight
  11. 06:16Caliber Options: 9mm vs. 45 ACP for EDC
  12. 06:44Overall EDC 1911 Package
  13. 07:16Where to Find More Information

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Dan Wesson Vigil Commander suitable for everyday carry?

The Dan Wesson Vigil Commander is well-suited for everyday carry due to its commander size (4.25-inch barrel), which balances concealability with a full-sized grip. It features a crisp single-action trigger, effective sights with tritium for low light, and aggressive grip texturing for control, all at an accessible price point.

What is the typical price range for the Dan Wesson Vigil Commander?

The Dan Wesson Vigil Commander has an MSRP of around $1,300. This pricing positions it as an entry-level Dan Wesson firearm, offering high-quality features typically found in more expensive custom or semi-custom 1911 pistols, making it an affordable option for many.

What are the key features of the sights on the Dan Wesson Vigil Commander?

The Vigil Commander features a plain black rear sight with horizontal serrations and a ledge design, which aids in one-handed slide manipulations. It is paired with a bright front dot sight that includes a tritium vial, providing excellent visibility for quick sight acquisition, especially in low-light conditions.

What caliber options are available for the Dan Wesson Vigil Commander, and which is recommended for EDC?

The Dan Wesson Vigil Commander is available in both 9mm and .45 ACP. For everyday carry (EDC), the 9mm is often recommended due to advancements in ammunition technology and the ability to carry more rounds, typically coming with two 9-round magazines.

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