Rock Island Tac Ultra MS M1911 A1 in 10mm - Initial Thoughts and Impressions

Published on June 15, 2025
Duration: 8:51

This video provides initial impressions of the Rock Island Armory Tac Ultra MS 1911 in 10mm. The reviewer, new to 1911 platforms, highlights its heavy, full-steel construction and the stiffer slide rack, attributing it to the 10mm cartridge. Initial thoughts on grip texture, magazine feel, and thumb safety are shared, along with a positive note on the purchase price and a local dealer's price matching program.

Quick Summary

The Rock Island Tac Ultra MS 1911 in 10mm is noted for its substantial weight due to full-steel construction and a stiffer slide rack, attributed to the powerful cartridge. While the grip is grippy, the reviewer, new to 1911s, observes a two-stage hammer click and a gritty factory magazine compared to a smoother Wilson Combat alternative. The firearm was purchased for under $600, including ammunition, through a local dealer's price match program.

Chapters

  1. 00:01Introduction & Overview
  2. 00:08Rock Island Tac Ultra MS 10mm
  3. 00:13MS vs. FS Models
  4. 00:25Barrel Length & Bull Barrel
  5. 00:35Layman's Perspective
  6. 00:53First 1911 Experience
  7. 01:05Desire for 1911 & 10mm
  8. 01:14Hunting Protection
  9. 01:23Unfired Impressions
  10. 01:35Weight & Construction
  11. 01:58Recoil Expectation
  12. 02:05Grip Texture
  13. 02:29Grip Modification Ideas
  14. 02:44Grip Feel for Small Hands
  15. 02:58Magazine Ejection
  16. 03:10Grip Replacement Plans
  17. 03:19Slide Stiffness
  18. 03:49Spring Accommodating 10mm
  19. 04:07Hammer Feel
  20. 04:16Two-Stage Hammer Click
  21. 04:35Overall Feel
  22. 04:43Magazine Comparison
  23. 04:57Magazine Grittiness
  24. 05:22Internal Spring Feel
  25. 05:31Magazine Aesthetics
  26. 05:36Base Plate Texture
  27. 05:50Feeding Reliability
  28. 06:02Thumb Safety Feel
  29. 06:13Audible Click
  30. 06:18Engagement vs. Disengagement
  31. 06:50Aftermarket Safety Options
  32. 06:55Overall Purchase Satisfaction
  33. 07:04Purchase Price Breakdown
  34. 07:25Tombstone Tactical Shoutout
  35. 07:30Price Matching Program
  36. 07:56Local Arizona Deal
  37. 08:09Future Business
  38. 08:16Range Day Anticipation
  39. 08:27Recoil Concerns
  40. 08:32Backcountry Carry
  41. 08:41Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the initial impressions of the Rock Island Tac Ultra MS 1911 in 10mm?

The reviewer finds the Rock Island Tac Ultra MS 1911 in 10mm to be very heavy due to its full-steel construction. They note the slide is stiffer than expected, likely due to the 10mm cartridge, and the grip is grippy but lacks front stippling. The hammer has a two-stage click, and the factory magazine feels gritty compared to a Wilson Combat alternative.

What is the significance of the 'MS' designation on the Rock Island Tac Ultra?

The reviewer believes 'MS' likely stands for 'midsize' on the Rock Island Tac Ultra, differentiating it from the 'FS' or 'full size' model. This midsize version features a 4.25-inch barrel and a bull barrel design, offering a balance between concealability and shootability.

How does the Rock Island Tac Ultra MS 1911 feel for someone with smaller hands?

Despite its substantial weight, the reviewer with smaller hands finds that the grip of the Rock Island Tac Ultra MS 1911 fits well. While the slide is stiff, the overall grip circumference is manageable, though they consider slimmer aftermarket grips for potentially easier handling.

What was the purchase price and experience for the Rock Island Tac Ultra MS 1911?

The reviewer purchased the Rock Island Tac Ultra MS 1911, along with 50 rounds of 10mm ammunition, for under $600. They utilized Tombstone Tactical's price matching program in Arizona, securing the firearm for $530 without additional shipping or FFL fees, which they considered a great deal.

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