The RAREST Of All The Model 1911 Pistols | North American Arms

Published on November 11, 2021
Duration: 18:38

This video provides an in-depth look at an extremely rare North American Arms Model 1911 pistol manufactured in 1918. The presenter, an experienced firearms enthusiast, details the historical context, production challenges, and unique characteristics of this firearm, which was part of a limited contract for only 100 units, with just 24 known to exist today. The video highlights the poor finish quality and manufacturing inconsistencies compared to other 1911 variants, offering valuable insights for collectors and historians.

Quick Summary

The North American Arms Model 1911, produced in 1918, is considered the rarest of all 1911 variants, with only 100 units made and an estimated 24 known to survive. These pistols were manufactured in Quebec, Canada, and are distinguished by their poor finish quality, unique logo, and lack of military acceptance marks.

Chapters

  1. 00:08Introduction & Shout Out
  2. 00:36Introducing the Rare North American Arms 1911
  3. 01:17North American Arms 1911 Made in 1918
  4. 01:44Singer vs. North American Arms Rarity
  5. 02:05Production Numbers & Military Acceptance
  6. 02:36North American Arms Company Overview
  7. 03:03History and Background
  8. 03:17Production Numbers & Known Survivors
  9. 03:53Known Fakes & Collector Advice
  10. 04:10Singer 1911 Production & Fakes
  11. 05:30WWII 1911 Makers
  12. 05:59WWI 1911 Makers
  13. 06:39Springfield Armory & Remington UMC WWI Production
  14. 07:15Remington UMC vs. Remington Rand
  15. 07:37Companies in Different Businesses
  16. 07:51Winchester & North American Arms Contracts
  17. 08:24The Mystery of North American Arms
  18. 08:44Ross Rifle Company Facility
  19. 09:08North American Arms Formation & Contract
  20. 09:16Raw Materials & Tool Room Samples
  21. 09:35Quality Concerns & Non-Acceptance
  22. 09:53Public Sale & Survival Rate
  23. 10:07Rock Island Auction Sale Price
  24. 10:18Finish Quality & Logo Details
  25. 10:28Close-up on the Logo
  26. 10:58Serial Numbering & Condition
  27. 11:06Poor Finish Preparation
  28. 11:20Copper Discoloration & Flaking
  29. 11:41Examples of Poor Finish
  30. 11:52Comparison to Singer Finish
  31. 12:04Production & Contract Failure
  32. 12:20Mystery of Contract Acquisition
  33. 12:28Comparison to a 1913 Colt
  34. 12:39Logo & Font Differences
  35. 12:49Quebec Canada Marking
  36. 12:53Hammer Differences (No Checkering)
  37. 13:11Serration & Checkering Differences
  38. 13:27Numbering Uniqueness
  39. 13:35Removing Grip for Serial Number
  40. 13:41Original Grips & Checker Count
  41. 14:16Absence of Acceptance Proofs
  42. 14:41Unmarked Barrel
  43. 14:51Caliber Markings
  44. 15:04Property Markings
  45. 15:19Finish Deterioration Example
  46. 15:32Magazine Details
  47. 15:58Unique Magazine Possibility
  48. 16:12Serial Number 9 Details
  49. 16:40Rarity & Condition Confirmation
  50. 16:53Finish Under the Grips
  51. 17:36Final Look & Rarity
  52. 17:43Availability & Video Goal
  53. 18:09Concluding Remarks
  54. 18:18Shout Out to the Owner

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the North American Arms 1911 so rare?

The North American Arms 1911 is exceptionally rare because only 100 units were ever produced as 'tool room samples' in 1918, and it's estimated that only 24 of these are known to exist today. The company failed to meet its large contract, making these pistols incredibly scarce collector's items.

What are the key identifying features of a North American Arms 1911?

Key identifiers include a unique logo where 'Limited' is in a smaller font than 'North American Arms,' and the 'i' is lower than the 'd.' It also features a hammer without checkering, 13 diamonds in the grip checkering, and lacks military acceptance proof marks or 'Property of U.S.' markings.

Why is the finish on the North American Arms 1911 considered poor?

The finish is poor due to inadequate metal preparation and the use of a caustic salt solution with high copper content. This resulted in the finish flaking off easily, yellowing in some areas, and deteriorating, especially under the grips.

How does the North American Arms 1911 compare to other rare 1911 variants like the Singer?

While the Singer 1911 had 500 units made and is known for its quality and finish, the North American Arms 1911 is significantly rarer with only 100 produced and is characterized by its poor finish and manufacturing inconsistencies. Both are highly sought after by collectors.

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