NRA Gun of the Week: Dan Wesson Vigil Commander Pistol

Published on January 29, 2019
Duration: 2:35

The Dan Wesson Vigil Commander is a 9mm 1911 pistol featuring a forged aluminum frame for reduced weight, making it approximately 6.5 ounces lighter than an all-steel variant. It includes a tritium front sight and serrated tactical rear sight for improved visibility. The pistol operates on a Series 70 platform, omitting a firing pin safety, and allows for cocked-and-locked carry with its non-ambidextrous thumb safety and beavertail grip safety. The 4.25-inch bushed matched barrel and 9-round magazine contribute to its functionality.

Quick Summary

The Dan Wesson Vigil Commander is a 9mm 1911 pistol featuring a forged aluminum frame for reduced weight, weighing approximately 30.5 ounces. It includes a tritium front sight, serrated tactical rear sight, and operates on a Series 70 platform without a firing pin safety, allowing for cocked-and-locked carry.

Chapters

  1. 00:19Introduction to Dan Wesson Vigil Commander
  2. 00:25Frame and Sights
  3. 00:37Weight and Recoil Considerations
  4. 00:58Ergonomics and Trigger
  5. 01:09Checkering and Grip Design
  6. 01:26Operation and Safety Features
  7. 01:51Internal Specifications and Magazine
  8. 01:57Price and Value
  9. 02:06Where to Find More Information

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Dan Wesson Vigil Commander lighter than other 1911s?

The Dan Wesson Vigil Commander is constructed with a forged aluminum frame instead of a traditional steel frame. This material choice results in a significant weight reduction, making the pistol approximately 6.5 ounces lighter than an all-steel commander-sized 1911, weighing in at around 30.5 ounces.

What are the sight features on the Dan Wesson Vigil Commander?

The Dan Wesson Vigil Commander is equipped with a tritium front sight for enhanced low-light visibility and a serrated tactical rear sight. This combination is designed to provide a clear and precise sight picture for various shooting conditions.

Does the Dan Wesson Vigil Commander have a firing pin safety?

No, the Dan Wesson Vigil Commander operates on a Series 70 platform, which means it does not have an internal firing pin safety. This is a characteristic of many classic 1911 designs, allowing for a simpler trigger mechanism.

How is the grip designed for comfort and control on the Dan Wesson Vigil Commander?

The Dan Wesson Vigil Commander features wood grips with a unique half-smooth, half-rough texture to balance grip security with comfort. Additionally, the front and rear straps have 25 LPI checkering for enhanced tactile control, and the butt is rounded for more comfortable concealed carry.

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