Why is the 1911 more popular than ever? Massad Ayoob & Bill Wilson explain. Critical Mas ep 37

[@gowilsoncombat]

What do you think? Is the 1911 still a viable pistol?

[@GuilePatrick]

I say...Yes... But that is just me...

[@dougdunn6417]

Absopositively!!

[@josemoreno-ee9cq]

Because is the best shooter in the pistol world

[@mathemacits2400]

I like it as my first gun. I got a double stack 45 acp from rock island armory and the recoil and grip feels comfortable and it’s my first pistol that I’m getting comfortable to shoot with. And it’s still the same size as my glock 19 p80 with the compensator/21 round mag the trigger feels amazing and not gonna lie it does look beautiful. If I had the option and more money I would’ve tried the beretta before the 1911 but.. it was the first weapon I asked for when I was up in line at the gun shop. The only thing is that i don’t have a holster and I have to Mexican carry and sometimes it slips if my belt isn’t tied, so sometimes I carry it Mexican style but for the left hand cause it never slips that side. Shooting with the left hand doesn’t feel uncomfortable either but if I had the option to change something on the 1911 by custom I would change it from 45 acp to 460 Rowland but only when I’m good at hitting targets though cause it’s kinda expensive

[@mason-mp]

Being that I just received a Wilson Combat CQB Tactical LE in 10MM, I'd say YES!

[@jimmyfrazier3761]

There's a reason it's been around more than a 100yrs!

[@bryananderson3772]

Lots of things have been around for 100 years. That doesn't make it good

[@TheGoodOlBoyzChannel]

@@bryananderson3772 in the gun world it is a good thing

[@marchanson711]

The 1911 is no longer an ancient pistol when it is engineered by Wilson Combat. WIlson's process and manufacturing produces a truly modern firearm. That's it, that is all.

[@hindsight2022]

Dude its been around since 1909 it is not modern by any stretch of the imagination.

[@grantorino2009]

It's design is ancient. If Ford built a Model T today using new materials and machining, it would still be an ancient car design. Wilson Combat gave the 1911 longer life with their excellent manufacturing, but the design itself is unquestionably 111 years old.

[@maximilianmustermann5763]

@@hindsight2022 I'm not sure about the Wilson, but there are a lot of modernized 1911 and 2011 designs that have a lot of changes to the original design. Like bull barrels and whatnot. And guns in general haven't changed that much. If they had changed as much as cars did since the Model T, we'd be shooting plasma rifles.

[@dmar177]

@@maximilianmustermann5763 l

[@maximilianmustermann5763]

@@dmar177 It's not an L because I don't own a 1911. I just don't get why people have such a strong opinion about them. They have very good triggers and the design works well for some use cases (mostly competition).

[@CrazyPetez]

My 1911 epiphany came after a lifetime of wheel guns, then in the “modern” era, a couple of .40cal Glocks. While shooting with some friends, I was offered a modern 1911 to shoot. My accuracy with the 1911 was so improved, I knew 1911s were in my future. The trigger is the difference.

[@Z1gguratVert1go]

I hear ya. A vanilla 1911's trigger is often better than a fancy trigger on most anything else.

[@lastminuteman]

The trigger is second to none 👍

[@JoseyWales44s]

I went to the range with a couple of my "Glock" friends one day and let them both shoot my 1911. They both had big enthusiastic grins on their face when they finished. One of them bought his own 1911 shortly thereafter.

[@brysonfitzgerald5238]

I love how Bill and Massad greet each other respectfully at the beginning of each episode.

[@garytellep5392]

Most people are respectful to the people paying them a check.

[@brysonfitzgerald5238]

@@garytellep5392 i disagree.... have you met our younger generations?

[@garytellep5392]

Goes a little deeper; their parents and grandparents own most of the blame.

[@bksfv6812]

I find most of us who are pro 2A have guns for the right reasons . . . because we're good, rational, reasonable people who respect our fellow human beings. Such respect shows itself in a number of ways, such as how we greet each other. Seems very common behavior among we gun owners, in my experiences.

[@juniormendoza657]

I'm not an expert but because it's been tested throughout time and still proves to be reliable. I'm a functional quadriplegic now for 5 years and out of all the guns I own as far as pistols the 1911 is the only I can still operate comfortably. That should say a lot about the 1911 that someone in my condition can still operate it even with my serious disability also I'd like to ad that the AR 15 platform is comfortable for me to use to defend myself the same tool the government wants to ban

[@marktestoni6483]

@@jonWilk8156 my thoughts exactly

[@bryananderson3772]

I'd like to see a quadriplegic charge the T handle on an AR

[@juniormendoza657]

@@jonWilk8156 I'm not sure i can explain it without actually telling you my story. For one there are probably less than one percent of individuals like myself according to my physical rehabilitation doctor. My C5 vertebrae ruptured and my spinal cord suffered from extensive bruising. In the beginning I had no function from the neck down. I couldn't even breathe on my own. I couldn't even brush my own teeth or feed myself. I went through ten months of physical therapy. Slowly I began to regain function of my limbs. Medically I am a functional quadriplegic due to the fact I do not have full function of my limbs. In the past few months I have gained more strength and mobility. With the proper equipment I can stand and walk a limited distance. I used to not be able to use my cell phone without special equipment now I can. I used to not be able to do many things but I have gained more strength and mobility. Like I said there are less than one percent of people who make the gains i have made. I'm still healing a little at a time. Even my own therapists who became my friends can not believe the healing my body has made. All the specialists I see yearly don't believe my story. Through God, dedication, hard work and never giving up you can accomplish a lot. Some people endure injuries like myself and decide to give up I almost did but I was blessed that my condition was not a complete injury which in some cases is the result. A complete injury is one that the spinal cord is injured so badly that signals from the brain can not travel through the nerves. I hope that explains my condition. According to medical science I'm labeled as a quadriplegic but a functional quadriplegic.

[@juniormendoza657]

@@marktestoni6483 simply just a label 🏷

[@juniormendoza657]

@@bryananderson3772 i understand your ignorance many people do not understand the different types of spinal cord injuries. I was ignorant to the difference between different types of spinal cord injuries until I became one. I used to not be able to charge the handle now I've even changed out the original with a raptor handle to make it easier for me.

[@frankbutta9344]

The 1911 is about as cool as they get. The thin slide and frame is a cool factor that can’t be beat!

[@Oldhogleg]

Personally I've found that typically with people that they had to have a few years experience with shooting on a continual basis to develop enough experience to truly appreciate the subtle somewhat non tangible qualities that the 1911 has that others don't. It's once you've become truly a proficient shooter is when you truly appreciate what a good 1911 has to offer.

[@chuckster243]

I would have to disagree with you on that. I've spent the better part of 55 years in firearms, my father and then my son instructors for police departments. The differences are aesthetics in my opinion. As far as pure performance or as a "tool" a 1911 on its best day couldn't touch a Glock if its life depended on it. Now as a highly detailed, extreme example of what can be done to make a firearm a piece of art work to enjoy, the table flips quite the other way. But again, this is only my opinion, nothing more, nothing less.

[@Oldhogleg]

@@chuckster243 I'd have to disagree about reliability; the 1911 was adopted because of it's extreme reliability after shooting thousands of rounds during army testing. Where things gets murky is that the original pattern is no longer followed, ball ammo is no longer the norm for defense use, and it's no longer the product of a single manufacturer. Now we have a situation for decades where the so so to awful reliability of a bunch of manufacturers are lumped in with high quality manufactures, creating the appearance of the 1911 pattern being unreliability when there are perfectly reliable ones being made by manufacturers of higher standards. Now with all that in mind, there's nothing that exposes unreliability like competition, if it fails you, it immediately get kicked to the curb. Yet the fact is that 1911's has dominated competition for decades, and it can't do that by being "unreliable". If the 1911 was so inadequate, it never would have been banned from competing directly against other pistols in thier same class, but relegated to their own 1911 class to only compete against other 1911's on the grounds that 1911's have an "unfair advantage". Getting back to my original point, that is a high quality 1911 has "unique" qualities that only serious shooters can "truly" appreciate. Of course, that's just my own opinion as well.

[@chuckster243]

@@Oldhogleg You do make some very valid points that I never took into consideration, lumping the old with the new, and a boat load of manufacturers putting knock offs into the mix. I was not aware of a significant redesign and assumed pretty much all of the offerings were just a rehashing of the old design. My bad.

[@jaydunbar7538]

Yes a high quality 1911 is a pleasure to shoot, as someone who owns both sides of the spectrum it’s clear the polymer pistols are the clear winner of the utilitarian tool award. The cheaper polymer pistols are every bit as reliable and at the same quality level are half or less the cost. Don’t take this the wrong way, my 1911s aren’t going anywhere. I’m only pointing out that cost is a major factor for most people and thus is a major factor for generalizations.

[@Brett235]

@@Oldhogleg I have personally seen very expensive, custom 1911's fail because of tight tolerances and then being ammo picky. On the other hand I have seen older gentlemen put different parts together to make a Frankenstein 1911 that just works no matter what ammunition they shot through it. I personally carry an old, 1970's, colt G.I. model 1911 that works great. It's beat up, scratched and worn from being carried for so many years but I can drop that safety and pull the trigger and I know it will fire every time.

[@Larry--qn4dd]

I believe the 1911 is a timeless classic that will never go out of style. It's sleek, balanced, and effective.. not to mention extremely durable. I live in a rural area, and around home I carry a SAA, but when I travel I carry a 1911.

[@johnathanross6519]

The look, the trigger and the history.

[@luciano-km7mq]

The 1911 is as relevant as a katana is to a samurai warrior. It's here to stay. Stopping power, and by far the prettiest hand gun in existence.

[@ScrappyXFL]

Haha, I carried a katana and a P10-45 and a slabside for night watch after a hurricane. No phone, no power, I was 911. Yea, I'm still smiling after your comment.

[@tonyv8925]

Hmmm...don't know about it being "pretty', but if that was the case I would choose the Browning Hi-Power or P-08 Luger as being 'pretty'. But, that's just me...grin...

[@luciano-km7mq]

@@tonyv8925 Eye of the beholder (even though we 1911ers are the majority). Cadillac or Lincoln. Lamborghini or Porsche....same irrelevant argument.

[@zanegandini5350]

@@tonyv8925 Yeah the Luger P-08 has to be the coolest design I've ever seen, followed closely by the Lahti L-35/Husqvarna Model 40 and the Walther P38/P1.

[@ProjectsWithPaul]

How lucky am I to be alive during the time of these 2 legends!

[@iggibars]

I could sit and listen to Massad talking all day long. Though I like many handgun types, the 1911 platform is my favorite.

[@LostintheHate]

You are an Ayoob, officially adopted

[@KeanonGilliamSlang369]

At the range I work at ... fathers and grandfathers are introducing younger shooters to the 1911s. Also believe it or not younger shooters get an interest in the 1911 because of the video game Call of Duty. They come to the range and rent a 1911 and maybe purchase one later on.

[@bretsnoke9213]

1911's are absolutely timeless and my favorite. So many mods available and it's track record speaks for itself.

[@ronhernandez8660]

There’s still a lot going for the 1911! I carry a Springfield Loaded model myself!!

[@LoneWolf543]

Absolutely yes to option 2, "they all fall to hardball". You can't beat the 1911 in .45 ACP. Still my favorite EDC!

[@Garandasaurus]

Yup, my choice. I carry an old GI Remington Rand, I run it with Wilson mags, and when it needs a small part, I use Wilson parts. That old Rand is still practical around the ranch and in the woods, and it's shot a great deal of game, and pests over the years.

[@jamesa.7604]

The 1911 Pistol is still more than capable to do the job it was designed to do. I have one in 9mm and I want one in .45ACP as that caliber was the 1911 and caliber I was taught how to shoot with 45+ years ago at the tender age of 11. I have shot many other types of pistols and revolvers but My Dream Pistol is still a Five inch barreled 1911 chambered in .45ACP from Wilson Combat. And I hope it finds it's way into my hands real soon.

[@growleym504]

Of course it is still a viable pistol! It is so intuitive, so smooth to operate, fits the hand so well, and has just the right grip angle. Actually I won't throw rocks at the Browning Hi-Power, either, another gun that ought to be more popular than it is now. John Browning was a true genius.

[@treebasher7179]

Love my 1911. The light and identical trigger pull along with the weight makes it one of the most accurate and shootable handguns ever made. Mr Browning is a genius to create a design which has not only lasted but remained effective and relevant for an eternity in the firearm’s world!

[@johncarpenter7664]

Settled on the 1911 long ago, never thought of making a change even though when I worked at Cabela's I handled many others. My picks are 1911 Colt's and Kimber's all the way!! Love the 10mm.

[@jorysiler]

Just bought my first 1911 today. I’m very excited to start learning more about this gun and customize it

[@GraydonMcKee]

Free advice - put 1,000 rounds through it (at least) before you start customizing it. Todays 1911’s have never been better right out of the box. Only customize what needs changing. You will save yourself tons of money that way and honestly enjoy the gun a lot more.

[@jorysiler]

@@GraydonMcKee will do thanks for the input!

[@johnmohanmusic]

Good for you Sebastien!

[@joshuakreider7627]

Bought a 1911 after watching all the gun guys videos. Every point made here stands up for me. Love it. Nothing beats solid metal. Great content as always!

[@azcactus2008]

99% of the time I carry a 1911. Either a full sized 5 inch barrel or if I'm feeling lazy, I'll go with an officer size 3 inch barrel. So many people think that having a maximum number of bullets is everything. I feel that having a gun that is extremely shootable and being able to hit your target is most important in stopping the threat. AND it's a beautiful tool with a rich history.

[@jaydunbar7538]

Maximum capacity gives more chances to hit said target, and with proper selection of a polymer carry gun accuracy is not an issue. I carry whatever fits my fancy that day from modern micro 9s to all steel 1911 with magnum revolvers mixed in on occasion, desert eagle in 50ae just because once in a blue moon. I think people should carry whatever they want, I just find many of the arguments stated as fact to be nothing but opinions or self justification.

[@johnmohanmusic]

Me, too.

[@titocolon2562]

I tell you I own glocks and 1911s and for some reason I carry my 1911s more! It's just something about it that I can't wrap my head around! I hope one day I get to own a Wilson combat 1911 but in the mean time my kimbers have been doing the job quite well!

[@Smith686plus]

I’m an active duty LEO, snd a Commander sized 1911 is my cool/cold weather carry. I shoot it well, and I don’t have any plans anytime soon of changing it out.

[@lastminuteman]

I have been carrying a 1911 in .45 for the last 18 years. For me it’s the most comfortable firearm I’ve carried, and I definitely shoot the best with it. I don’t think I’ll ever stop trusting my life to a 1911.

[@mcjon77]

Massad is making me rethink my stance on safeties. That is really interesting stat about it taking on average 18 seconds for someone to figure out where the safety is.

[@antoineallard8788]

I am 23 y/o and i live in Belgium. Here i only do sport target shooting. And i have to say, once i've tried a 1911 in 45 ACP, i realised that it was perfect for me !

[@briannapier8337]

John Browning was a genius at gun design, he kept it simple but effective and that never gets old.

[@The_Ballo]

... simple?

[@jaydunbar7538]

His designs may be simple by today’s standards, but they were anything but simple when he designed them.

[@texastomsshavingtips6359]

@@The_Ballo I think that he means simple to use, after you learn about the safeties.🤔🤠

[@The_Ballo]

@@texastomsshavingtips6359 It has a nice trigger, but is more complicated to assemble and use than most handguns sold today

[@Quakeboy02]

@@The_Ballo then you should probably have a Glock. And that's OK.

[@Synistercrayon]

I love my 1911. It is a mainstay and is always close by. Ol faithful

[@joeblowfromidaho3642]

Over the past decade or so, I've gone from a "revolver guy" to a "1911 guy." With modern semi customs like WC, the 1911 has just about achieved revolver-like reliability with defensive ammo, is much more easy and comfortable to carry (especially concealed), and is easier to control than a 357 magnum revolver. The only thing that comes close for me for reliability and ease of getting rounds on target is the CZ 75, but that is generally even heavier, bulkier, and fires a less effective round than a .45acp 1911. The only disadvantage is capacity, but if you hit what you aim at most of the time, this becomes less of a disadvantage.

[@johnkizziah108]

I used one the first time in Vietnam to save my buddies life..worked for the job been shootin them ever since. I like 1911s and S&W revolvers. Good enough for me.

[@hoag2531]

1911 is my every day carry! Love my Beretta 92X compact (because I could not find a Wilson combat Beretta Centurion!) but my 1911 rides so easy IWB.

[@jimtewa8096]

Thank you for another great video gentlemen, I believe the 1911 is without a doubt the best combat pistol available, especially if you own a Wilson Combat they produce a remarkable 1911 I have a full size a recently received a Commander which is now my primary carry very comfortable, if you don't have a 1911 I strongly suggest you buy one you will never regret it.

[@wayneantoniazzi2706]

It's popular for the same reason the British Army used the Brown Bess musket for 100 years. Simple, rugged, reliable, and with the minimum of parts doing the maximum amount of work. Built to work in every situation from Alaska to the Southwest and all points in between and be safe to use as well, whether it was used by infantry, artillery, or especially cavalry troops. (We forget how important cavalry still was in 1911!) And it goes without saying a bad guy hit with a .45ACP round goes DOWN. What an absolute genius John Browning was!

[@joshualandry3160]

I have a 1911 chambered in 9mm. I choose the 9mm specifically for ammunition availability. Poking around my local store I discovered that a) they didn't have 1911s in stock and didn't carry them and b) they only had 9mm in stock. Fortunately they are easy to find online and I'm looking forward to taking mine to the range.

[@lornenoland8098]

Very few guns that impress me the first time I shoot it. The 1911 is one of them. There’s something about the ergonomics of it that just feel right

[@keithlutz4842]

I’ve often thought that a 1911 (in 9mm) would be a great carry gun, but until now had never considered Massad’s scenario regarding the bad guy grabbing my gun & trying to figure how to make it fire-that’s a strong argument for the 1911. Food for thought that may be enough for me to try one! Thanks as usual for the great and practical content.

[@Ogrematic]

I love the 1911. First handgun I ever shot. Been carrying one since the '90s.

[@johnmadow5331]

I have OEM Colt M-1911 that made in 1913. I had some spare parts and conversion unit to fire .22LR., This gun has been throu WW-I and II should give you a security and relibility for protection and you can practive with in expensive .22 LR. If I want to get rid of it, I will get my money back. If I can not get what I want, I can take it apart and sell it sepreately. The OEM Frame alone worth more than what I paid for the whole gun! I can get this return from my sport car that I brought in 1981!

[@Ranxerox1911A1]

I've been carrying a 1911 every day thirty years. I choose .45 I've tried the wonder nines and always go back to my 1911.

[@stevenwilliams8961]

Newly Retired Military. I can’t replace my 1911 with a polymer striker fire, just doesn’t feel the same. 1911 for life!!!

[@adamb2619]

Nostalgia, history, functionality, customization, availability, etc......all hard to ignore.

[@hawkinatorgamer9725]

I only have 1 handgun, its a Llama Max 1 1911 in .45 ACP. When I am carrying it, the weight actually gives me comfort, I know exactly where it is at. I know the Llama is a cheap one, but I love mine. I bought it back around 2000, 2001 cannot remember exactly. I have put 1000s of rounds through it, yes I have had some stove pipes but that is the only malfunctions I can recall and they were just occasional. Easy to clear, and once its muscle memory its very fast to clear. Was very intersting to hear Massad Ayoobs wisdom about the manual of arms of a 1911, and how it could throw off an attacker. That makes alot of sense. Enjoyed the video, I own 2 Wilson Combat magazines for my Llama, they are outstanding. If you own a 1911, get a Wilson Combat magazine.

[@TheAxe4Ever]

I would love to have a 1911. Especially a Wilson. A bit price prohibitive for me at the moment though. I don’t competition shoot. I’m more a “real world” shooter. With the price of ammo, I only get to put about 500 rounds a month through my gun. I’m more of a self defense shooter and train as such, so for now, I’ll have to stay with my Canik. Not real expensive. But reliable and a great trigger. Someday I’ll get a 1911. Someday.

[@christopherbishop4927]

Timeless Classic, I absolutely love my 1911's. I especially favor the 1911 10mm, however I have 380acp, 9mm and 22TCM offerings

[@veteranacp]

I LOVE my Kimber .45 1911. Smooth as butter and shoots like a dream. Wouldn't have it any other way. It's a beautiful gun.

[@tedh7543]

The 1911 it's an incredible firearm that's stood the test of time. My first one was given me by late father and I will pass this on to my son one day. I've never thought about carrying a 1911 but Masad has a strong argument as to why a 1911 or another handgun with a manual safety may be of benefit in a hand/gun fight should the bad guy get ahold of your gun vs a striker fired handgun. Thank you Masad for sharing your incredible wisdom.

[@daleparker4207]

I've taken first time shooters out with the 1911. Much respect. Thank you gentlemen.

[@gowilsoncombat]

Right on

[@ronaldhowdeshell8628]

I am a 54 year old Army vet that has been shooting since I was old enough to hold a gun. I just bought my first 1911 (45 ACP) within the last month.

[@gryphonz3]

Absolutely a timeless firearm...no question. In fact, I just purchased an EDC X9L that is in transit as I type.

[@douglasshaw8358]

It's a great platform. Feels great to shoot,accurate, it's a work of art. People who appreciate craftmanship.

[@tdwalleye6282]

22 years carrying a Glock 22. Just bought my first 1911, Springfield 1911 45 Garrison. Pick up 4 Wilson combat 47D magazines. Love it. Looking forward in a couple of years picking up a 4” barrel 1911 in 9mm. You are not kidding about getting older and the arthritis (almost 50) with the recoil and slide use. Learning curve but is worth it!!!

[@JudgeD-hc9vw]

Thanks both of you old farts. Im a middle age fart and just bought my first 1911. It is a springfield....just didnt have the cash for a WC. I also have an assortment of Glocks in 9mm......but shooting that 1911 in .45 is such a great feeling. Appreciate your videos.

[@ellisonlowrimore7751]

I’m 54 and it’s still my favorite pistol to shoot. The trigger pull is sweet.

[@BLACKWOLF-1911]

I've been shooting and carrying a commander length 45 1911 for 37yrs. I have tried polymer guns but always go back to a 1911. When you've been shooting them for so long, nothing else compares to the feeling you get from this platform. It was my first gun and will be my last.

[@willwilliam217]

67 year old fuddy duddy here, love my 1911’s in 3”, 4.25 and 5”. I do not carry them but they see a lot of range time. Most of them are 45 acp.

[@CraigDaniel1965]

It's my favorite. Just bought a Springfield Garrison 9mm yesterday to add to the collection

[@jacobcooley1748]

1911's are now and probably will always be my favorite pistols!

[@DavidFWaite]

I am Rachel, this guy's wife...66 years old. He doesn't shoot much but I do. First time shooting a gun was 2015. Started with a revolver. Understood immediately how important big and heavy is for accuracy and recoil. Dove head first into full size all stainless steel 45 cal 1911. Fell in love with trigger too. No turning back. I carry owb concealed and train with 1911 exclusively including advanced tactical. I have no issues with recoil. Had a 9mm 1911 and didn't like it. Even with arthritis setting in still have no issues. Really love shooting!

[@420kushmaster]

knock down power. An American legend on the battlefield

[@ryanranard5187]

😆 so the 1911 has “knockdown” power? Lol

[@ronmarvicsin7709]

My brother served in the military. He told me once I shoot a 1911 I’d want one. Right after I suit my first 1911 I went out and bought a Colt 80 series in stainless steel for $400. Many since that one too

[@simonsparks5738]

I was given a 1911 by late Donald " Bucky Malson " while he was hunting with me here in Africa , it was his personal carry handgun he brought out with him as he did some contract work with our defense force and police special task team. He trained instructors in various disciplines and gave me a few good tips on shooting accurately and effectively with the 1911. I still have it today , in fact its on my side right now , hardly any bluing left on it now but I love it the way it is , my old trusty rusty , accurate as all get out. Serial No 713109 United States Property M1911A1 U.S. Army. Wish I could send you a photo of it.

[@ericbertoch673]

Howdy from Wyoming! Love my 1911’s! John Moses Browning designed a timeless classic, and Bill Wilson continues to perfect it. Two of the greatest icons in the gun world (IMHO). What a great time to be a pistol guy! I’ll keep savin up for the next one, as long as Bill keeps makin ‘em!

[@smithwesson7765]

The 1911 is an icon. Elegant, powerful and reliable. The fact that this pistol is still immensely popular after 112 years needs no embellishment.

[@mickeydill2361]

Guys thanks for featuring the 1911. I just love this style of firearm.

[@boomanh63]

I love my 1911's. It's a timeless classic. Yes, its manual of arms is different. Yes, its maintenance is different. If you take the time to learn your tools it is still a viable choice for an EDC firearm.

[@seanfoltz7645]

It never ceases to amaze me when you share just how difficult it is for criminals and those unfamiliar with guns to get a 1911 to work - maybe I simply have too many years of firearms experience, but even putting aside that the 1911's safety isn't as glaringly obvious in its position as those of other semi-automatic pistols...I just purchased one yesterday and my thumb found the safety almost instinctually despite having never used one before. I had always figured the problem was from folks not knowing about the grip safety and failing to apply enough pressure but I've heard you share this fact in several videos and you have been consistent in saying that it's the thumb safety. Then again, criminals are infamous for knowing so little about firearms that cops confiscating weapons with the wrong caliber ammo in them is common and in all fairness, teaching the wife to fire a semi-auto pistol for the first time, she was clueless on the safety too and that was with a Ruger P89 which has a more obvious safety. Speaking of the safety - is it supposed to not engage if the hammer is down - mine doesn't and Google has been no help as every hit is talking about jammed and broken safeties?

[@arrowinquire]

I learned to shoot from my father, a WWII vet, whose 1911 is still in the family. He collected guns and brought back a few from the war (including a sweet Walther ppk). I was always enamored by the 1911, admittedly because it had the largest hole in the end. Surprise: it was the easiest to shoot and to shoot well. Today I have .40 cals by Springfield and Sig, and I have a 1911 that is not even that great of a gun (AMT "hardballer" from the 70's, I think they are out of business today). I can still produce the best groups with the 1911.

[@imrich884]

I just bought a GSG 1911 in .22LR. My first foray into the world of 1911s. I will be adding one in .45 ACP soon.

[@kruppert54]

My first handgun was a Dan Wesson .357 Mag. After I bought, then set aside two popular plastic striker fired and a Sig P226 SAO which has sweet trigger, I found and settled into my Wilson EDC X9. It is not a true 1911 but is a type of one ,as Mr Wilson has said. I am anxiously waiting for my X-Tac Elite Compact to go to kit which was ordered in late July of last year. That’s the hard part, the wait for a quality Wilson 1911 with that famous trigger slim frame.

[@jamesbradshaw474]

I love the 1911. I’m 76 and the 1911 in .45 acp in my everyday carry. I don’t mind the recoil. It’s not near as violent as the .40 S & W. Of course I have been shooting the .45 acp for more than 50 years.

[@TheWolfsnack]

Yup...I am 70 and my absolute favorite of all my handguns is a Norinco 1911 5 inch barrel...with some mods and Wolf springs it is the most reliable gun I have ever shot.

[@CaptHowdy48]

I’m a 1911 guy …. It knocks the hell out of where it’s pointed…With pin point accuracy

[@bev8200]

Because it’s a masterpiece

[@spudthompson1414]

I started with a Colt woods man 22 at 6 years old had only a few weel guns love the 1911s ever since that semi automatic 22 my dad taught me to shoot.

[@ROE675]

I have revolvers and striker fired pistols and they both have their pluses and minuses but the 1911 still has a place in my heart and my gun safe.

[@jamescandler6602]

I love both of mine!! 45 & 9mm. Wilson guns are really hard to beat.

[@JordanOutdoors-o5n]

I think so, it is a amazing pistol

[@karenhendershot1200]

I LOVE my 1911 (9mm) as a 57 year old female. I have a CZ as well, and have tried several others but my 1911 is my "fun" gun!

[@adviceman5211]

YOU GUY'S LEFT OUT THE .38 SUPER, MY FAVE CARTRIDGE FOR THIS PISTOL. ALSO, IF WT. IS AN ISSUE, THE LIGHT WEIGHT COMMANDER IN 9mm IS A GREAT COMBO. GREAT VIDEO, GUY'S, ON AN ICONIC FIREARM !!!

[@biohazard20161]

Look at how long it has been around, it is a timeless handgun. Many people said that the Baretta 92 was the end of the .45ACP 1911, but here it is still around. I used both in the Army.

[@chrisschmidt1052]

I only ever owned or shot striker fired polymer guns. When my son was born I thought it would be a cool idea to mark the occasion with a 1911 that would become an heirloom, after we shot it for 21-25 years... Took it to a friends range, put 3 magazines through it and I haven't looked back. That was a year and half ago. I am about to purchase another to be my carry and training gun so I can stop feeling guilty about putting wear on my "heirloom". Hopefully the folks at Wilson will open their shop up to non-Wilson made guns again at some point so both can get the attention they deserve. Thank you for the great channel and content.

[@100vg]

I had a 1911 9mm Largo that mu son gave me because the trigger pin kept falling out. I had a gunsmith work on it, and though he hammered the metal sides to pinch the pin to keep it in (crazy!), I loved that gun! It was from the Swiss Army and was designed for them. Largo means Large in Swiss and though it was not a 9mm Magnum, the shell was longer to hold more powder. When 9mm Largo rounds became impossible to find, it still worked perfectly with regular 9mm rounds. That gun was stolen and I really miss it. I haven't had another 1911, but it is a fantastic deign! It was old and a little clanky clacky upon firing, loud enough to hear, but it sure was accurate.

[@coreydarr8464]

I started my military career with the 1911 in 1978. My father had one in the Army in 1942 though out WW 2. I built in gunsmithing school in 2008. It is now the family airlum.

[@joshgascon7087]

One day I'll get my Wilson combat 1911! Today I'll have to settle for my Kimber loaded with Wilson bullet proof parts. Not bad, but nothing beats the real thing! Thanks guys! Content is great!

[@christophermead9800]

I’m 32 years old. I’ve been shooting my whole life. My great grandfather carried the 1911 in WW1. My grandfather carried a 1911 A1 on Okinawa and other WW2 pacific campaigns. The learned how to shoot and maintain the 1911. I’m a Millennial and the only gun I know and carry (everywhere, everyday) is the 1911 A1 or as my relative called it, “the 45 automatic”.

[@lawrencekatz5804]

Thank you both once again for an informative video. I still have and shoot my first two Wilson .45s. The first was the Stealth with Crimson Trace (since told it was your carry gun) and then the C...Elite. I now use the XDS 9mm. I had a detective friend who was undercover on a drug deal. His pistol was on his ankle that he never could reach. The bad guy put a pillow over the side of his head and twice pushed the 1911 into the pillow and thank goodness it didn't discharge since the slide slid backward. Then back up broke into the apartment.

[@markduccini]

The 1911 is and will most likely always be my favorite pistol. And 45 will always be my favorite. Caliber

[@RBMD2A]

I have several 1911s. Two are chambered in 9mm and four are chambered in 45 ACP. They are timeless

[@bryananderson3772]

How many do the 9mm versions hold?

[@RBMD2A]

@@bryananderson3772 it depends on the magazine manufacturer. For example, I have some Wilson Combat mags that hold 10 rounds. Mec Gar makes 9 and 10 round mags.

[@MrGetarealgun]

Timeless piece of workmanship. Thank you Mr. Ayoob & Wilson 🇺🇸 🗽.

[@In_Gun_We_Trust]

The very first handgun I trained with was a U.S. Army 1911. As a LEO, my first duty weapon was a S&W Model 64. The department later switched to the Glock 17 without a hiccup. I still keep a G17 in my nightstand, but for everyday concealed carry it's a Sig P365. I'd never want to go back to a 1911, nor even own one for nostalgic reasons. Different strokes for different folks, of course.

[@wayneantoniazzi2706]

Understandable. There's military sidearms and police sidearms and their paths don't necessarily intersect. Different tools for different applications.

[@PS987654321PS]

Why do you not like the 1911?

[@thepetersd535]

It's popular with me because Its the only pistol I've owned that I can shoot dead nuts with super easily

[@jasong546]

I recently visited an old friend in Indiana and we went to a pawn shop to look at stereo equipment and see if they had any hidden treasures there. We had just talked about firearms and when they had nothing to see in electronics we checked out the gun section. I said let’s see if they have the 1911 I was telling you I would like. I couldn’t believe it but there was a Wilson combat 1911 style in 9mm. I picked it up and I couldn’t believe how nice it felt. It was gorgeous looking too, and I can tell you that they knew what it was and it was priced so that it had held its value. Unreal quality and fit and finish!

[@jayemichael9802]

I've carried a 1911 since 1965 . NEVER LET ME DOWN .

[@adonikam1]

EXCELLENT EXCELLENT EXCELLENT VIDEO!! I CARRY my full size 1911 24-7! I'm 58 arthritis is in my hands but I'm sticking with my 45 PERIOD! I have a Springfield with some of your AWSOME PARTS in it and it runs PERFECTLY! One day I WILL purchase one of yours, hopefully sooner than later.

[@billtshudy3653]

It's a piece of ART, shoots INCREDIBLE, has many options, is customizable and it's FUN to collect them!!!

[@johnkizziah108]

A simple Wilson 1911 is my wholly grail pistol. Gettin old not sure bought that anymore. Have a few colts, some springfields, a few kimbers. But just want a wilson.

[@marcoluoma3770]

I scoffed at the 1911 for years until I borrowed a buddy's at the range. I was instantly more accurate with it than my Glock 17. So now I have both. Life is good.

[@jackcurtis4906]

I may not carry the 1911- but it is my favorite at the range...