It is heavy. Even empty it weighs more than a fully loaded polymer gun.
It only has 10+1 capacity (with an extended mag).
The grip with a 10rd extended mag is longer than the grip on an M9 with a 20rd extended mag.
It isn’t modular. In fact, I had to search just to find a Custom 1911 that accepted a light.
It’s a BEAR just to get the slide off (I actually need a tool because the bushing/barrel/slide fit is so tight) and extremely complicated by modern standards to completely disassemble.
It was expensive. I bought it used and still could’ve bought five Glock 19s for the same price. Or nightvision. Or an SR15. Or an ATV.
So why is it my favorite handgun? Why did I buy multiple cases of .45 ACP at gouging-level prices so I can continue shooting it? Why do I shoot it every chance I get? Why do I sit at my desk and play with it when I don’t get that chance? Why do I have multiple sets of Cocobolo grips? Why is shooting this at steel more fun than shooting another handgun at steel? Why can’t I shoot it worse than a 100-3x at a 25y B8? Why do all the old guys at the range give me that look of “Wise choice, young man…” when I bring it out? Why do I like it even though my friends say I should put it on bread with peanut butter (Jam joke - even though it runs flawlessly)
As a recent 1911 owner after decades without I understand completely. I bought the Pro in 9mm and a couple others in .45. I’ve been buying .45 at exorbitant prices just to shoot the .45’s when I economically shouldn’t be. Basically 25 years of 1911’s and 20 without. Pistol shooting is fun again. Of the several I’ve bought my favorites are the Pro 9mm without a rail and a Long Beach Operator in 45 with the rail. I can’t see me ever being Glockless but I also see no reason not to keep 1911’s as well.
Because its awesome. 1911’s are cool, and the reality is you will likely never need more than 8 rounds…you most likely will never use the gun besides your own entertainment.
Ironically, I was in the spot you were just a couple years ago. Thought I’d be there forever, but decided to consolidate to the G19. 1911’s are gone (even though I loved them). Sold the BMW for an F150. Did buy a Rolex.
There’s something about the feel of a SA Custom Shop gun. The Dave Williams touch. They are hard fit. They just have this sort of monolithic feel.
They shoot different than say a Wilson Combat or Nighthawk. Not necessarily better, just different. The build style is closer to a Les Baer or one of my old Rock Rivers. Just solid.
I only have four 1911’s, and they are all ridiculously fun to shoot. Why not have guns that are simply fun? Every range trip does not have to be about shooting weak-hand only and practicing injured-shooter one-hand reloads. Heaven forbid we simply enjoy ourselves and create a good memory.
And as a previous poster said - this thread is worthless without pics.
I think part of the appeal of the Pro is its lineage, and the fact that’s it’s spec’d with pretty much everything you would need in a hard use gun. The black t finish is also pretty great.
