Ultimate Carry 1911: The best features.

What features make the Ultimate Carry 1911? High visibility sights, extended and ambidextrous thumb safety, roughened front strap, beveled magazine well ... Features we once needed a custom pistolsmith to add for us can now be had from the factory.

[@elnach3240]

I could listen to this gentleman talk about guns for hours.

[@jwgbmp40]

Yes me too!!

[@shanman1382]

Same here!!!😊

[@hookeaires6637]

I do this while watching the videos.

[@zacharydalton8132]

The Morgan freeman of firearms

[@theoriginalOSOK]

The 1911 is THE American pistol. Every self respecting gun enthusiast should own one. Thanks Dick.

[@slimfire5475]

Your absolutely right!

[@kevinmarrett9532]

The line about the new standard of 1911 production using modern machines is probably the best argument for the continued relevance of the 1911 out of this whole series.

[@timothymadaras1613]

Love the straight to the point, no bullshit approach to the 1911.

[@paulrenner6387]

My son doesn’t want or like any of my 1911’s. I could cry. The kids today were raised on plastic. I hope one day he opens is mind up.

[@lockloadwithdickfairburn-cr1jb]

Kids want to go out on their own ... sometimes difficult to watch it, but we were the same back in the day.

[@OhioCruffler]

Great video, again. I really appreciate your sage, well-reasoned approach.

[@davehartman4350]

Look forward to your show and information.thank you

[@thealsatian4232]

My Colt Gunsite Service Pistol has everything I need and nothing that I don’t. I’m a simple man

[@lockloadwithdickfairburn-cr1jb]

Simple works best!

[@jamesvatter5729]

My Dad had a Colt Govt model 1911 made in 1913. His brass always had that flat side on the brass mouth. Thanks for the explanation

[@brionlincoln2534]

I really enjoy the long form content on Americas pistol. Great videos, thanks for sharing!

[@007Chancellor]

Always enjoy your no-nonsense, intelligent, understated videos. No silly tacticool BS...just straightforward good advice. I'm about your age and also a 1911 fanatic. The modern 9mm plastic fantastic crowd with their capacity fetish can't seem to appreciate quality workmanship, accuracy, and power in a pistol. I EDC a .45ACP Ed Brown Kobra carry and wouldn't trade it for anything else out there. My local sheriff dept here in Cochise Co (AZ) carry .45 1911s for the most part. Just recenty they were apprved to carry Glocks as well - and almost NO ONE got rid of their 1911s for the tupperware. 🤣😎👍

[@RebelByNature]

Ok, I will accept your statement about your local sheriff dept as accurate. If that is relevant then you should acknowledge that just about every other police organization doesn't carry 1911s. Same is true for the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, FBI, DEA, CIA etc. I wonder if they know they are armed with Tupperware. They must all be wrong I guess. I suppose you would refer to the m16/m4 as Tupperware as well and still cling to the idea that the US main battle rifle with the shortest lived service life, M14, with all its wood and steel would still be the best option out there. If wanting more capacity is a fetish, then why not go back to the trusted old reliable revolver? Thanks for pointing out one of the very last few examples out there of police organizations still carrying 1911s, they're increasingly hard to find. Full disclosure, I like 1911s (more from a historical perspective), revolvers and what you call Tupperware. I own and appreciate all of the above. However, I am in my mid 60s. While I believe people my age and younger will basically always admire and want to own at least one 1911, we don't conceal carry them or rely on them for home defense.

[@007Chancellor]

@@RebelByNature That's too bad. They're awesome carry guns. And judging a good civilian carry gun on what the armed forces carry in battle is confused thinking. Weapons are very mission specific. But hey - you do you!

[@RebelByNature]

@@007Chancellor Could the same argument be made on judging a good civilian conceal gun based on what LE carries (e.g. your local sheriff dept)? I think so, but I wouldn't. The only significant difference between civilian and either LE or military is the practical need for civilians to practically & comfortably conceal in a variety of weather conditions and clothing choices. Aside from that, it's the same mission, a reliable weapon to eliminate the threat(s).

[@007Chancellor]

@@RebelByNature Though I noted my local LE carries 1911s, I did not say I base my choice on that...nor would I. And if you think the only difference in mission between LE/military and civilian CCW carriers is as you stated, you are woefully ignorant of the parameters of our military and LE! They go LOOKING for trouble. Civilians (the smart ones at any rate) AVOID trouble at all costs - all of your John Wick fantasies aside. Fact is, you win every fight you avoid. But LE/Military's mission is the opposite of that. I won't keep going back and forth with you....as I now believe you to be either some kind of troll, John Wick wanna-be, or just woefully uninformed. Have a good day.

[@RebelByNature]

@@007Chancellor You keep shifting the goal posts of your argument because your argument is untenable. When did avoidance become part of this, you have a true flair for the obvious. Of course one tries to avoid a fight, that's not even close to what we have discussed. All you can do is resort to ad hominem attacks. Your distinctions between civilians and LE\military are without a difference once it gets to the point of needing a firearm regardless of whether you went to the trouble or the trouble unavoidably came to you. You don't even try to make a rationale argument. You know nothing about me so your suggestion that I am a John Wick wanna-be proves my point. Believe whatever you want, or whatever helps you save face.

[@roykiefer7713]

Dick, thank you for another outstanding video. I no longer carry a 1911A1, although my mid-1990’s Springfield TRP unquestionably is of “go to war” quality and performance, BUT the genius of J M Browning factually is immutable. In 2124, variants of his original design will be both entirely viable and treasured.

[@tomg3903]

Enjoyed your video

[@RatelLaw]

Than you for sharing your expertise.

[@BulletCult]

I have a .45 caliber Springfield 1911 Garrison that I’m saving up money to send back to the Springfield custom shop. All I want is a black cerakote finish for added durability and to have night sights and an ambi thumb safety installed. I carry this pistol quite often and just want to make this pistol more of a “working” gun. But that’s all it needs. It has everything else that you recommend a 1911 needs. We truly are living in the golden era of 1911s.

[@brucepotts25]

Since you will have it refinished anyways, get the front strap checkered too.

[@brucepotts25]

I have one too. Like it very much, although I did change the rear sight to a Harrison design, and put in a new front night sight.

[@billj5645]

I have heard different things about "match grade" barrels. I've read that some gunsmiths have fixtures that they can clamp a barrel into for testing and supposedly a standard old Colt barrel was as accurate as any barrel marked as match grade. Other manufacturers claim they use match grade barrels but they don't fit the barrel so they can't take advantage of any improved quality that their barrel might have. I do agree that the barrel fit, mainly the hood and the bottom lugs, is what is important to accuracy.

[@lockloadwithdickfairburn-cr1jb]

Most "match grade" barrel have the same bore/chamber but are a bit oversized outside so they can be handfitted. Unless you are a serious bullseye competitor, almost any barrel will give more accuracy than you can use IF the bushing, lugs and hood fit are rock solid.

[@tpelle2]

Regarding the statement that you made (actually, I gather that it originated from Dick Heine) about the age of "custom" M1911 pistols coming to an end is true. I own several M1911 pistols, each from different makers, and none of them are "custom" other than parts I've swapped myself. Sights, arched mainspring housings, short "G.I. triggers, maybe a spring or two pretty much wraps it up. But the best-fitted and functioning M1911 that I own (Or pistols owned by other shooters that I was given a chance to handle and shoot.) is a $450.00 Tisas Duty M1911 from Turkey.

[@gregoneill1495]

My Magnum Research MR1911G has all the features standard that you would have to pay extra from many other 1911’s.

[@kennethkeefer9080]

Another great video Dick thank you

[@chrischiampo7647]

Exceptional Video You are Right on So Many Points 😊😀

[@HRMAKRGT]

Excellent video as usual Dick!

[@greybeard277]

I enjoy your channel. I disagree with ambi safeties, but other than that I am glad to learn from you.

[@lockloadwithdickfairburn-cr1jb]

If we all thought alike it would be a boring place.

[@anangryranger]

I operated a gunsmith business concurrently while serving as a peace officer. I specialized in combat handguns. In the mid 80's up to the early 90's, the 1911 was the "it gun" for officers in North Texas, and I was building custom 1911s like crazy. Turned out 2 to 3 a month, and I had a maximum 2 week turnaround. Unheard of for custom gunsmith work, but I was a cop as well, and wanted my brother officers to have their weapons as soon as possible. Yeah, I really enjoyed building custom 1911s.🫡

[@Razor-gx2dq]

Love the videos, looking forward to that interview you mentioned.

[@Gumby56]

Great info, as usual.

[@olwoolley]

Thank you for sharing your experience and knowledge.

[@timclaus8313]

The features you list in the video description is what came standard on my Rock Island FS 1911s in 40 and 10mm, and with my Tisas Duty in 45 ACP. Your right, you don't have to drop big bucks for some very serviceable 1911s. I have 1911s in 39 Super (Govt Model), and 40 S&W, 10mm (double stack) and 45 ACP.

[@hubertjoyce4542]

Great info, thank you.

[@ga-gz1bo]

Great information, Thanks

[@user-sr9sl3df8l]

GOOD STUFF AS ALWAYS🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@64samsky]

I love your videos!

[@lockloadwithdickfairburn-cr1jb]

Thank you.

[@jeffcarpenter1891]

Another very informative video, great content. Looking forward to the next one.

[@lockloadwithdickfairburn-cr1jb]

Much appreciated!

[@jeffcarpenter1891]

@@lockloadwithdickfairburn-cr1jb You are very welcome Sir.

[@texasjoe3261]

Excellent Presentation, As Usual !! Thank You For Sharing Your Thoughts. May GOD Bless America !

[@lockloadwithdickfairburn-cr1jb]

Thank you kindly

[@jefferyr.powell5214]

the 1911 was the first pistol i used more years ago than i care to admit to. as i have aged, i do not have the strength in my off hand as i did in my late teens/early 20's and the slide can be hard for me to rack. however, i will always keep at least one 1911 in the safe.

[@mk-of6px]

I've owned several 1911's the first big bore pistol I ever fired was a 1911 Government in the ARMY, guess you never forget your first love, I bought a Ruger SR1911 it comes with many of the "upgrades" right out of the box and I'm happy with it BUT I couldn't figure out why it would feed UMC 230gr HP but not WIN. USA ready 230gr flat nose, they have a slightly different bullet profile, I think you nailed it with the magazine catch because I notice play in all the magazines, kimpro, ruger and even GI mags all have vertical play, Ruger must use an old print from Colt

[@lockloadwithdickfairburn-cr1jb]

It could just be the load, every pistol feeds a little different. That is why I recommend a full 50 rounds of range time with a new load before I carry it.

[@nelsondoan8271]

Another great video! Always great advice! EGW makes a raised mag catch, part #11120 that would likely have fixed your carry gun, but wasn’t available at the time I’m sure. I’ve always shot competition only with 1911’s and every pistol I acquired (none were Colts) had the same feeding problem you described with at least one or more bullet types. I suspect some of those issues could have been solved with the above listed part. With a little luck, it might work with no final adjustment! In any event I got all of my pistols working to absolute reliability. Came down to a part I designed that was based on a picture of an open gun that was covered in American Handgunner in the 80’s, and I think made by Devel, but I could be wrong. And an absolute focus on making perfectly reliable ammunition. I had a fellow build me attachments on a standard machine shop 3 ton arbor press, and set up a push through die on it years before Lee started making commercial kits for single stage presses. And now they even make a dedicated press for this purpose! This fixed the bases of my brass and gained me the final step of near perfect reliability in practice ammo and perfect reliability when I added the extra step and inspected my match ammo. I wore the headstamps off my .45 brass! 33:16

[@arapahoetactical7749]

Great video Dick, keep up the great work. I remember, back in the day, that any 1911 needed to be "Ramped and Ported" before you even took them to the range. I also replaced stock with extended triggers and replaced sights, mainspring housings and barrel bushings. I'd seen a lot of guns that had stippling done to the front strap but I usually R&R the grips with Pachmayers that were cheaper. The first Kimber I got my hands on shocked me. From the factory, extended safeties, night sights, front strap and mainspring housing checkering, long triggers, ramped and ported with that corner knocked off and great grips. The only thing I hate about them is that they have a PLASTIC mainspring housing, so I've replaced those with steel Wilson Combat housings with the same 30 LPI checkering that's on the front strap. That makes the grip feel like it's Velcro'ed to your hand.

[@shanman1382]

Kimber Warrior & Pro Raptor 4in 45acp for me "Kind Sir" 😊

[@drewmunny]

Absolutely love the content here, I could listen all day-- you really captured my interest with the final bit there. I'd like to hear your take on the Summer of '24 and how you feel about it. Thanks!

[@lockloadwithdickfairburn-cr1jb]

Giving this summer some serious thought ...

[@drewmunny]

@@lockloadwithdickfairburn-cr1jb definitely anxious to see what might happen over the next 6 months

[@theoriginalOSOK]

Now you have me looking at upgrade parts for my basic GI RIA 1911. Probably should just leave it alone... I have plenty of combat ready side arm options... I totally agree with you about being prepared... I'm pretty well prepared all the way around. Especially for armament lol.

[@kato1224]

He had to wait 7 years to get his pistol back that is insane.

[@yankinoz1956]

Love the 1911 content!! Feel like I’ve listened to a professor!! I have a Les Baer custom carry. How many extra mags do you carry?

[@curtis6554]

excellent video good to see someone do an in depth on the 1911. I think it is the finest pistol made and I have a few. my carry is a sigsauer full size tacops in 10mm it is stock . I am not in law enforcement and the pistol as is does all I need it to do I am very confident carrying it as a defensive weapon on the street or int the woods. again great video you and yours be safe.

[@lockloadwithdickfairburn-cr1jb]

You be safe as well.

[@davesusierobinson6508]

Great video. I own 1911s from Wilson Combat , Les Baer , and Nighthawk Custom. I've carried a 1911 daily for bearly 50 years . Love the platform. Total respect for Mr. Heine, but he might be wrong about custom Smiths. If you want a pustol like my Nighthawk there is a 2 year wait. People are buying custom 1911s . I look forward to your interview with him. He is truly a giant in the industry. His ledge sight adorns my Nighthawk.

[@lockloadwithdickfairburn-cr1jb]

You are certainly buying top notch hardware. Dick will explain his thoughts in the next video. I think the pistols you list kind of prove his point that you can have what you want new in the box from a maker now. When Dick started it was a no-frills Government model or Commander and someone wanting a first-class carry or competition gun needed someone to replace everything from the sights on down.

[@juanj.robles207]

Introduced to the 1911 in 69 by Uncle Sam, learned how to use it with Col Coopers Modern Techniq , still carrying one today. I guess I am a FUD. Great series keep up the great videos.

[@lockloadwithdickfairburn-cr1jb]

Thank you

[@usualsuspect5173]

Me too! 👍

[@alanmeyers3957]

Maybe a ramped barrel would fix it, or the mag catch, great solution!

[@LoonMagik]

Really like your videos Dick. You bring wisdom and knowledge from years of experience. It's a treasure being shared with those who did not live that lifestyle,vans who may never be able to no thanks to the politics of today. Like you, I too fear for this country and its citizens come next election and thereafter.

[@Mikesmith-lq7oo]

Dick, Great video. Thank you. Would you be able to do a video on the combat use of the Hi Power? Like the 1911, the HP is a formidable steel pistol. Striker fired pistols have a place but I think that steel guns are still relevant and can be used for duty. Thanks

[@lockloadwithdickfairburn-cr1jb]

Dick Heinie will show a nice Hi-Power in his interview next week. He used to do custom Hi-Powers that were every bit as nice as the 1911s. The Hi-Power was really the first "wonder 9" with its double-stack magazine. Triggers on them were heavy and rough, but removing the magazine disconnector helped with that and I think magazine disconnectors are a very bad idea, tactically. I want to be able to fire a round while reloading or at least have a single shot if I lost the magazine. Let me see if I can borrow a Hi-Power and do a video, they are growing in popularity with the Turkish clones coming in and Springfield Armory making them.

[@nrj_1957]

Once again Sir Thank you for the great informational video! As a younger generational man (32 Y/O) I sincerely appreciate your content since I don’t have my Father and Grandfather anymore to ask questions for topics like this. Or anything for that matter. I had commented in another one of your videos that you inspired me to get a 1911 again to become proficient with versus my Polymer Wonder 9 Guns which I’m used to and pretty good with. I purchased a Tisas 1911 B45 Duty. At the moment it’s the best I could do. But I’m putting in the Range time to get better with it. It’s such a pleasure to shoot. Feels more ergonomic than my polymer guns. Much nicer to look at as well! I just keep learning from your content. So keep it coming! And I agree with your last remarks at the end of this video. May god help this Nation if we get another Biden Term. I sincerely feel this economy cannot handle another 4 years of this. I look forward to that video. Thanks again, God Bless and take care Sir.

[@lockloadwithdickfairburn-cr1jb]

Thanks for all the kind words!

[@bjdog42]

You briefly mentioned the brand in a previous video but didn't give an opinion. What do you think about Tisas? I'm considering the D10 10mm for hunting.

[@warmonger82]

Dick, thank you for the video. What are your thoughts on 1) having a bushing-less bull barrel compared to the standard set up in 1911’s chambered for 10mm Auto 2) are there tangible benefits for 10mm Auto barrels to be ramped vs. the traditional non-ramped?

[@lenholt7419]

Thank you for sharing your knowledge. Its amazing the features that have been implemented out of necessity and competitive drive. One thing I will say i disagree with Mr. Heinie. There are many boutique Smiths out there Younger than you and I. Their books are closed on some of the best with wait list, acceptance, and build time the current hallmark. Yes the costs are much higher for these types of Custom 1911's.

[@paulheinz2145]

Love your work part of that is I am from up there and I love the dogs. We have two German shorthairs who do not take no for an answer

[@lockloadwithdickfairburn-cr1jb]

I'm down to just one Brittany now, but she is till a handfull.

[@TommyRibs]

5” Govt Model High Visibility Front Sight Ambi Safety (I may need to shoot only with my left hand) Magazine Well (Single Column Magazine going into a slim grip) Front strap checkering That’s how I setup all of my 1911s

[@lockloadwithdickfairburn-cr1jb]

Sounds like my checklist.

[@taasch2505]

I just picked up 2 SKS rifles because i got em at a good price and couldnt afford an AR or AK in this current economic climate. I wanted a rifle for myself and my wife. Picked up 2 chinese made. 1 is a paratrooper model which i got for her since she is 5'4 and I'm 6'3 so the larger rifle doesnt bother me. I dont suppose you could do a video on your thoughts on these rifles for dealing wity domestic conflicts both ROL/WROL? I know 7.62x39 is a damn decent cartridge with a proven track record. You gave the knod to the 30-30 lever. I think the sks is faster to reload even with a fixed mag. I live in California so i didnt want the heat of the AR or AK platform either

[@lockloadwithdickfairburn-cr1jb]

I have only a little experience with the SKS platform, but the damn things work. Several friends bought several for SHTF storage when the carbines and ammo was dirt cheap. One friend. a decent home gunsmith, said he faced off the barrel muzzles and recrowned them and the accuracy improved dramatically. I think the SKS is probably one of the best "budget" fighting carbines you can have. I am a little allergic to ComBloc hardware, but have to admit they are good performers. All things considered they may be better than the AKs.

[@taasch2505]

​@@lockloadwithdickfairburn-cr1jbthanks for your input. I'm glad I purchased them but I feel better hearing good things from veterans of the firearms world. Thanks for your input. Now...to get all this damn cosmoline off! Lol

[@kypatriot7037]

Thank you Sir for sharing the valuable information. You're a gem! What are your recommendations for an OWB holster for a government 1911? God Bless!

[@lockloadwithdickfairburn-cr1jb]

My #1 goto for OWB with my LW Commander is an Alessi DOJ holster which featured two wrap-around straps front & back to allow you to mount/dismount the holster while the belt is firmly in place. The straps widen the weight-bearing area for super comfort. Low Alessi died several years ago and I think the company closed, but I still see one of his holsters on ebay and places once in a while. My second choice is a Bianchi Askins Avenger ... also out of print, carries the pistol at about the same angle as the DOJ. Milt Sparks Summer Special for IWB. In modern/secure holsters, a Safariland ALS 6378 works well on a paddle or belt loops, and I have one mounted on my chest rig for the 10mm in bear country.

[@kypatriot7037]

Thank you kindly for the thorough reply. Most helpful. I appreciate you taking the time to do so.

[@eduardoavello8710]

Another excellent video and content, Dick... Thank you!... I did not have a good experience with ambi-safeties, though... maybe that particular 1911 brand wasn't good quality enough, but the safety assembly fell apart while shooting... I also think that there is no major advantage, at least for me, in full length guide rods... sometimes they are difficult to assemble/disassemble, at least for me.... Finally, and I know I might very well be alone in this one, or at least in a minority... but I tend to favor standard or classic 1911 platforms over more "tactical" and modern-features 1911s... There is something about the smooth front grip, smooth slide top, etc. that feels extremely comfortable in my hand and in the pistol handling, that make them a pleasure for me to shoot... it is just my opinion and feel... But I do find extended beaver tails are an actual improvement and advantage.... one final thought and question.... regarding this video's topic... what is your opinion on arched main sping housing (as in the 1911 A1) vs flat ones?... Thank you again... Best regards, Eduardo.

[@lockloadwithdickfairburn-cr1jb]

The first ambi-safety on the market was made by Armand Swenson. I bought one from him and even when I would sell/trade a 1911 I kept that safety and it is on my pet LW Commander now. I prefer the ambi-safeties with the tab you fit behind the right grip panel, they are 100%. If you like a stock 1911, God bless you, use what you like. I have used both mainspring housings and the flat one is my preference. You hardly see a modern 1911 pistol with an arched housing unless it is a 1911A1 throwback style model.

[@alexfresel6198]

Nice rundown thanks. I'm not planning on going back to the land of freedom to live but if I do I might carry my 1911 again One thing that bothers me is that I'm about 114 mm from the middle distal pad to the base of my thumb. I got a shortened trigger but I don't think it's absolutely the shortest. Wondering if I get the shortest trigger if it's wise to install it and carry the 1911 or if the frame is still going to be too big for my hand to accurately index the pistol in a high-stress situation especially one-handed. Thanks again. I have a Springfield Armory Range Officer Compact that is very easy to shoot I also appreciate my RIA GI although I should have the grip safety built up.

[@lockloadwithdickfairburn-cr1jb]

Pick up a Springfield Armory EMP pistol in a gun shop and see how it feels. The frame is shorter front-to-back, sized for a 9mm or .40 S&W and truly a smaller grip.

[@alexfresel6198]

@@lockloadwithdickfairburn-cr1jb thanks I was actually offered one of those years ago in a trade but declined. I think the quality wasn't as good then if I'm recalling the same pistol. I prefer the 45 ACP because it's a classic cartridge and it's heavier there's a lot of variety you can get it bonded it has momentum etc I have to grip my guns again when I get back to Oklahoma or find a model that already has the super short trigger. The other thing that occurred to me is that the 1911 grip style also possibly favors a single action type of grip it seems so that might work out for me. That is the single action seems to work best when you cheat to the right a bit.

[@lockloadwithdickfairburn-cr1jb]

@@alexfresel6198 You can try the thin grip panels, too. They make the pistol feel smaller.

[@BryanHouk-gs4lu]

I had colt 1911 don't really remember what year it was it shot really good. The trigger was amazing. That was the first pistol that I ever purchased from my friend and now I think it would've been worth some money and now I really want one again at least a 1911 any suggestions on a budget?

[@lockloadwithdickfairburn-cr1jb]

The Tisas 1911s from Turkey have a growing reputation for performance and very attractive prices.

[@TARandFEATHERS]

Ambi safeties, in a lot of holsters, are easy to see/feel to insure they are on. Things are gonna go bad no matter how the election turns out. RockOn.StayFree.

[@kesselster]

Mr. Fairburn, I've watched quite lot of your content the past month. I truly enjoy the level of experience, knowledge, and rational analysis you bring to the table. It's refreshing to hear a man explain his rationale, as opposed to yelling louder and insulting people. Forgive me for being so forward, but I'm not sure how to ask, so I'll simply come out and say it. I'd enjoy speaking with you about anything firearms related. I don't have too many people in my life that are 'at my level,' as it were. You, of course, far exceed mine. I would enjoy that, if you'd be interested. Lastly, I'm quite young. I am one of the few young men who truly enjoy revolvers--have since I've been 22--and 1911s. Thank you Sir.

[@lockloadwithdickfairburn-cr1jb]

Thank you for the kind words. Glad to chat with you through these comments, other folks might have the same questions you have.

[@kesselster]

​@@lockloadwithdickfairburn-cr1jb You're very welcome, Sir! I would have responded sooner, but, for some reason, I did not receive a notification.t A number of things. I know you're a big fan of 45 ACP. This is the one caliber I do not have. To my thinking, it's a low-capacity, slow, fat bullet. It is pleasant to shoot and plentiful. However, I enjoy getting the most energy possible. The on opposing side, you have spoken well of its penetration through auto-glass. This is something of interest to me. Typically, I carry a 10mm. If I do go with a 45, it will likely be a 1911. The load would be a 265 gr. hardcast from Underwood.

[@lockloadwithdickfairburn-cr1jb]

@@kesselster I find myself firing .45s less as time goes on. The 9mm is cheaper and more comfortable to shoot, obviously, especially as Uncle Arthur (arthritis) shows his ugly head more and more. No problem carrying, few rounds will be fired in a gunfight and stress will mask the recoil. But a full day of training takes its toll. The 10mm will do everything a .45 will do and more, as Jeff Cooper intended. I think modern terminal testing shows that Kinetic Energy is little more than a numerical way to show a load's potential. Hit a heavy steel plate with a 9mm load and a .45 that carry the same kinetic energy sometime and listen/watch the difference. Twice the bullet mass (.45) will smack the plate much louder and move it much further.

[@kesselster]

@@lockloadwithdickfairburn-cr1jb I'm 31 so I won't have to deal with that, for, hopefully some time. That's a fair point. Do you still shoot the heavier magnums? .357, .41, and .44? Actually, I'm looking to get a S&W Model 57. Any thoughts on it? There's not much information on it online. Yes, it's my favorite auto caliber. Right, that's a fair point. I've heard the difference between a 55gr 5.56 and a 77gr 5.56. What is your opinion on hard cast lead ammo? I've heard good things about it, but I don't handload or reload. Any thoughts?

[@lockloadwithdickfairburn-cr1jb]

@@kesselster I don't shoot magnum DA revolvers anymore, they are just too uncomfortable with arthritis in my right thumb area. The .41 Magnum was my favorite over the .44, just as much power with significantly less recoil. with 5.56mm loads - depends on what you need to accomplish. My M4 is currently set up with Black Hills 50gr Optimized TSX, a dedicated patrol rifle load, with M193 55gr FMJ as a matched- trajectory training load. If you're wanting a long-range load with good terminal performance, Black Hill's Mk 262 Mod 1 load is in use by almost every US military SpecOps unit and is available to civilians,

[@sparky_-mf2cs]

Great video. Would you be able to talk about budget 1911's and the performance and durability on them like the rock islands. For us poor peopls 😂

[@lockloadwithdickfairburn-cr1jb]

Shop a sizeable gun store and you should find several 1911 options for under $1k, bare-bones models from Tisas, Rock Island and even Remington can be well under a thousand. As long as they have good, visible sights, you can trick out other features one at a time. I really hate the slick front strap when you try to get good control in rapid fire, but we got by adding skateboard tape to friction points for a long time. Some SWAT operators still tape up their Glocks and other sidearms for better "grip" when using gloves. No shame in wanting to go low cost ... most of us started there and upgraded when we could afford it.

[@alecswann7234]

Great ... but Heine is wrong, at least about 1911s from 1K~2K. Those all have MiM parts, per Hilton Yam. Yam noted in his "1911 and MiM" video that it is much, MUCH cheaper at volume to set up MiM castings than to do CnC machining. Which is why you need to step up to Wilson Combat levels of prices to get all tool steel parts CnC machined. AT VOLUME as a buyer: Colt, Springfield (even the TRP has all MiM parts) and Kimber you get MiM. The Tisas as of this year has all steel, but what is the heat treatment and quality at that price? No Free Lunch. Most buyers are going to get a MiM gun, and start replacing. The really hard stuff that Yam recommends replacing: extractor, plunger tube? That's custom gunsmithing. I'd add one more item to your list of mods. Grips: wood or G10, with flathead screws. Yam said during duty carry he'd take off the grips, slather oil underneath, to keep rust out. He also recommends to protect the plunger tube with grips that fully support/protect it. He noted, as did Vickers, Hackathorn, Ayoob etc. that the best bet for reliability is a full size, all steel, government model 1911 in .45 ACP, shooting ball ammo. I think there will be even more demand for Gunsmiths, especially "video on demand" tutorials on how to work on your own 1911, as labor becomes more expensive and MiM just invades everything due to cost.

[@therond.patron4959]

Please sir Don't forget about the Winchester and federal +p+ loads 115gr

[@maxmccain8950]

I see you prefer full size Government models for carry. I’ve followed the Clint Smith philosophy on full size pistols myself over the years. In your opinion are the new Commander/Officer models more reliable than the older ones were. I’ve just preferred the dimensions of the full size as far as weight and balance go. Another great video sir.

[@lockloadwithdickfairburn-cr1jb]

Thanks for the kind words. Actually, I prefer a LW Commander for EDC. For the 10mm Bear Defense pistol, the 5" all-steel gun is the way to go, unless you want a longslide for a bit more velocity.

[@maxmccain8950]

@@lockloadwithdickfairburn-cr1jb I had a beautiful lightweight Commander in the mid 1970’s. I was pretty new to shooting and thought it kicked too much so down the road it went. Wish I had it now.

[@makodra]

10mm full size 5", what main spring weight and recoil spring weight would you recomend?

[@lockloadwithdickfairburn-cr1jb]

I think the spring in mine is 20 pounds for full charge loads, some use a 22 pound spring, I believe. I also use a shock-buff pad on the spring guide to soften the rearward impact of the slide in recoil. The shock buffers need to be replaced regularly.

[@alanmeyers3957]

Retract that slide an inch and the bushing will be easier to turn.

[@usualsuspect5173]

Full length guide rod isn't particularly about accuracy it's just more correct mechanicaly to an engineer

[@usualsuspect5173]

Browning designed them to meet military specs, other wise he might have wanted full length guide rods in them

[@lockloadwithdickfairburn-cr1jb]

You see wear in the dust cover below the recoil spring where it is flexing downward in use, so a guide rod MIGHT smooth out the operation a bit ... a bit. I simply wipe a little oil on the wear mark to help things along.

[@JohnTBlock]

Only 1911 I have is an Argentine 5 inch-A1 clone, but fortunately I'm 6ft. 2, 350+ lbs. I could probably conceal a Super Blackhawk!

[@lockloadwithdickfairburn-cr1jb]

Or an AR pistol!

[@JohnTBlock]

@lockloadwithdickfairburn-cr1jb Heh! Don't know about the buffer tube in the arm-pit! 😂😎🤣

[@lockloadwithdickfairburn-cr1jb]

@@JohnTBlock I was thinking of an ankle holster.

[@alanmeyers3957]

It should be over, however even Cabot can’t even get them right all of the time.

[@DirkDiggler6903]

They sure get heavy after carrying for awhile. Getting old is no fun!

[@RoadTraveler]

Bump

[@JamesHavens-sk2uw]

Geez, leave the 1911 alone🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@k4vms]

It appears that you do not have a rail on any of the 1911 you show in this presentation. Why ? In the carry 1911’s(Commander) I have a rail for a weapon light and have trained with using a weapon light in conjunction with tactical flashlight. So you feel a weapon light is not necessary ? I believe a weapon light is very necessary and as important as good sights. I did not hear you mention about the use of night sights. This is something I believe is very necessary and I have trained in low light and no light scenarios. Ricky from IBM

[@lockloadwithdickfairburn-cr1jb]

My 1911s all pre-date rails, and weapon-mounted lights came after the bulk of my street/training time. When they became reliable I promoted them heavily when I was at the Illinois State Police Academy. I believe all their duty holsters now come made for a light. BUT, I do not think you need a rail light for CCW or home defense, they are a fine option, but not required IMHO. For LE/Military duty a weapon-mounted light is almost mandatory today. I have night sights (Tritium) on all of my self-defense pistols, usually the Straight-8 Ledge model from Heinie Specialty Products. You will see them featured on my next video.

[@RoadTraveler]

Algorithm

[@thomasmills3934]

I dont think a hand gun needs to be sniper accurate. 93% of gunfights occur from 3-7 yards. With the remaining 7% being not too far off from that. I'd rather have a gun that will be 100% reliable under ANY circumstance. If your gun needs to be pampered to work, I like my odds against yours.... ain't no ballistic dummy gonna change my mind.

[@lockloadwithdickfairburn-cr1jb]

I think the highest degree of accuracy in a 1911 is only needed if you are going to use it for hunting. One old gunwriter saying goes, "only accurate rifles are interesting." Accurate handguns are also very interesting. I agree that reliability is the most important aspect and even below average accuracy is good enough for the vast majority of gunfights. But, when you have have BOTH accuracy and reliability, you have a somewhat rare commodity. That is why Richard Heinie had a seven-year wait for his work.

[@sg51psd04]

LITERALLY, slide to frame fitment....clamp in, weld out,. Sir, bout the only thing you can't get perfected from factory. That is still up for debate.... Nothing that SDI couldn't teach an individual over internet/KZbin videos to do it yourself. W/E Col. Jeff Cooper, No candles I see around him at all.

[@LUVDOGS1954]

OMG....no rails! can't hang optics, lights, laser designators, thermal, bipods etc. So FUDD...🤪

[@LUVDOGS1954]

Also: more of the pups please!

[@user-ci2mn1oy3w]

Best features-alloy frame, 9mm, at least commander size and preferablyDefender size, so you can wear it at the navel and still sit down comfortably. Something from spld, kimber, etc, but you pay thru the NOSE for such things A govt model 1911 is WAY too big and heavy for hot weather ccw. and a lot of them are WAY too expensive for what they are. $400 for a used one from the Philippines, Israel or turkey, maybe. $1000+? hell, no. Behined the hip ccw is quite obvious when you sit on a bar stool and is easily bumpe against people, doorways, etc. i have no idea who buys those things. I thought that the pool of suckers like that would have been filled-up 40+ years ago.

[@lockloadwithdickfairburn-cr1jb]

Now that I am an old, retired CCW dude, I find myself packing the LW Commander more with the 9mm or .38 Super barrels. I will be working up some .357 Mag-level loads for the .38 Super using 9x23 brass and that might become #1. Arthritic hands tire more easily when firing hot .45 ammo.

[@TimIngram-rz6bc]

Sounds like a deal if You only have the equivalent to 5 Glocks for a 1911 from Mr Heinie.

[@lockloadwithdickfairburn-cr1jb]

Quality requires time & money. Like most things in life, you get what you pay for.

[@RebelByNature]

@@lockloadwithdickfairburn-cr1jb Fair comment, but at what point does the law of diminishing return come into play? The price range of those expensive (imho anything > 2000) 1911s make me wonder how much better of a gun do you get for the exorbitant premium. I like the super car analogy. You can buy a 140 mph top speed car fairly economically. To get a 200 mph supercar you will pay a number of times the price of the 140 mph model. Is it worth it? You can get a decent, very reliable, accurate enough for defensive purposes, 1911 very easily for under 1500, and probably cheaper than that. How much smaller of a group size will you get, assuming you are good enough of a shooter to notice the difference, by buying one these high end models? As Paul Harrell likes to ask, is it enough of a difference to make a difference? I have this theory, curious as to what you think, that the more highly tuned, highly accurized, precision fit, you make a 1991, the less of a reliable combat weapon it is, the less robust it is. If that is true then it suggests it depends on what you are looking for, combat weapon or work of art that makes pretty groups at the range.

[@lockloadwithdickfairburn-cr1jb]

@@RebelByNature Watch next week's interview with Richard Heinie. His pistols are both very accurate and verry reliable. Other builders can do good work, but his seem to hold their fine edge for a very long time. I've known other folks to have custom builds done which seem to degrade with use pretty rapidly.

[@RebelByNature]

@@lockloadwithdickfairburn-cr1jb I certainly will! It's fair to say I devour your videos. Top notch in terms of content. Keep up the great work. I am certain what you say is true as to the accuracy and reliability of his builds. I would love to see you do another video in your 1911 series which compares all of that between budget, mid tier (e.g. basic colt offerings) and these high end custom builds. I might be surprised but I definitely would find it interesting.