USMC Force Recon & MEUSOC: the M45A1

Published on March 26, 2020
Duration: 6:36

This video provides an expert overview of the Colt M45A1 pistol, detailing its history with USMC specialized units like Force Recon and MEUSOC. It covers the procurement process, technical specifications including its .45 ACP caliber, Trijicon night sights, and Wilson Combat magazines, as well as unique military markings like the EGA serial number suffix and UID barcode. The expert notes its recent replacement by the Glock 19 and discusses the growing collector value of surplus M45A1s.

Quick Summary

The Colt M45A1 is a .45 ACP pistol issued to elite USMC units like Force Recon and MEUSOC. Based on the Colt Rail Gun, it features Trijicon night sights and Wilson Combat magazines. Unique military markings include an 'EGA' serial suffix and UID barcode. Surplus models are becoming collector items.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the M45A1
  2. 01:28Procurement History
  3. 02:44Service and Replacement
  4. 03:41Technical Features
  5. 04:52Markings and Identification
  6. 05:55Collector Value

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Colt M45A1 and who issued it?

The Colt M45A1 is a semi-automatic pistol chambered in .45 ACP that was issued to elite US Marine Corps units, including Force Recon and MEUSOC, as their official sidearm until recently.

What are the key technical features of the Colt M45A1?

The M45A1 is based on a Colt Rail Gun frame with an accessory rail, features G10 grips, a Desert Tan Cerakote finish, Trijicon 3-dot tritium night sights, ambidextrous safety, and uses 7-round Wilson Combat magazines.

What unique military markings are found on the M45A1?

USMC M45A1 pistols often have an 'EGA' (Eagle, Globe, and Anchor) suffix in the serial number and a 2D UID barcode for inventory tracking. Surplus models may have 'USMC' markings struck out.

What caliber is the Colt M45A1 and how does it compare to other military pistols?

The Colt M45A1 is chambered in .45 ACP, reflecting the USMC's historical preference for this caliber, even after the wider adoption of the 9mm Beretta M9 by other branches of the US military.

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