Our Top Picks
Best Overall

Springfield Garrison 1911 .45 ACP
Match-grade forged steel construction.
- Trigger: 4.5/5
- Quality: 4.5/5
- Accuracy: 4.5/5
Best Budget

Rock Island Armory 1911 Standard FS
Excellent choice for those who don’t want to spend a lot on a pistol.
- Trigger: 4.5/5
- Quality: 4.4/5
- Accuracy: 4.5/5
Best for Concealed Carry

Kimber Ultra Carry II
Easily concealable and easy to carry.
- Trigger: 4.6/5
- Quality: 4/5
- Accuracy: 4/5
If you’ve just been convinced by a friend to get an M1911 for your new gun, you made the right choice! But don’t be hasty with your purchase. Make sure you’re well-informed so you don’t have any regrets later on. Let us walk you through our list of the best 1911 pistols!
Table of Contents
Why Get a 1911 Pistol?
The M1911 pistol has been around since, you’ve guessed it right, 1911. It served the US Armed Forces from 1911 to 1985. Aside from its amazing history, the M1911 has been proven to be just as reliable for civilian shooters. It’s also been a widely used pistol for competitive shooting. Its low recoil and accuracy make the 1911 pistol great for self-defense, target practice, competitions, and even hunting.
Another great thing about the 1911 pistol is the aftermarket support. You can easily customize the pistol according to your preference because parts are easily accessible.
How to Choose the Best 1911 Pistol
Category | Springfield Garrison 1911 .45 ACP | Rock Island Armory 1911 Standard FS | Kimber Ultra Carry II | Sig Sauer Fastback Emperor Scorpion | Ruger 1911 .45 ACP SR1911 | Taurus 1911 Full Size .45 ACP Pistol | Category Average |
Overall Score | 3.15 | 3.28 | 3.01 | 3.1 | 3.03 | 2.9 | 3.08 |
Ergonomics | 1 | 1 | 1.45 | 1 | 1.17 | 1 | 1.1 |
Trigger | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.6 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.52 |
Quality | 4.5 | 4.4 | 4 | 4.5 | 4 | 4 | 4.23 |
Value | 1.25 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1.21 |
Accuracy | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4 | 4.33 |
Trigger
A 1911 pistol’s trigger quality is crucial for precision and comfort. A well-designed trigger provides a smooth, consistent pull with a clean break, so you get better control and more accurate shooting. Look for an adjustable or finely-tuned trigger model to suit your shooting style and preferences.
How Do We Rate It?
We rate the trigger based on factors like pull weight, smoothness, and reset. A top-rated trigger will have a light yet crisp pull, minimal creep, and a short, tactile reset.
Accuracy
Features like high-quality barrel construction and precise sight systems often enhance accuracy in 1911 pistols. Consider pistols with a good reputation for out-of-the-box accuracy and those with aftermarket support for sights and barrels.
How Do We Rate It?
We assess accuracy by evaluating the pistol’s consistency in delivering tight groupings at various distances. We also consider the quality of the sights and the overall balance of the gun, which can influence the shooter’s ability to maintain a steady aim.
Quality
The overall quality of a pistol is determined by the materials used, the craftsmanship, and the attention to detail in manufacturing. High-quality pistols often feature durable materials like stainless steel or high-grade polymer, and they exhibit excellent fit and finish. Brands with a strong reputation for quality control typically produce reliable and long-lasting firearms.
How Do We Rate It?
Quality is rated based on the durability of materials, the precision of manufacturing, and the attention to detail in the pistol’s construction. A high-quality rating is given to pistols that exhibit minimal wear and tear after extensive use and maintain their performance over time.
Value
Value in a 1911 pistol isn’t just about the initial cost but it’s also about the long-term benefits. A pistol that offers a combination of reliability, durability, and performance at a reasonable price provides the best value. Consider factors like the availability of aftermarket parts, ease of maintenance, and resale value when assessing the overall value of a pistol.
How Do We Rate It?
Value is rated by comparing the pistol’s price to its features, performance, and durability. A pistol that offers exceptional performance, a robust feature set, and longevity at a competitive price point receive a high-value rating.
Ergonomics
Ergonomics play a significant role in the comfort and ease of use of a 1911 pistol. A well-designed pistol will have a comfortable grip, intuitive controls, and a balance that feels natural in the hand. Customizable grip panels and adjustable backstraps can enhance ergonomics, allowing shooters to tailor the pistol to their hand size and shooting style.
How Do We Rate It?
Ergonomics are rated by evaluating the comfort and ease of handling the pistol. This includes assessing the grip texture, the shape and size of the controls, and the overall balance and weight distribution. A pistol with excellent ergonomics will fit naturally in the hand and allow for easy, intuitive operation.
6 Best 1911 Pistols
Best Overall: Springfield Garrison 1911 .45 ACP

Category | Springfield Garrison 1911 .45 ACP | Category Average |
Ergonomics | 1 | 1.1 |
Trigger | 4.5 | 4.52 |
Quality | 4.5 | 4.23 |
Value | 1.25 | 1.21 |
Accuracy | 4.5 | 4.33 |
Score: 3.15/5
Specs:
- Caliber: .45 ACP
- Action: Semi Automatic
- Barrel Length: 5″
- Overall Length: 8.6″
- Height: 5.5″
- Sights: Low Profile Combat 3 Dot
- Capacity: 7+1
- Magazines Included: 1
- Weight: 37 oz
- Finish: Black
The Springfield Garrison 1911 features a slide and receiver constructed from forged steel. Its barrel also has a match-grade forged steel construction. We love how Springfield Armory added some modern upgrades to this iconic pistol. Some of these improved features are the high-ride beavertail and memory notch that gives you better grip and recoil mitigation. The Garrison is made from holt salt-blued carbon steel and wood which gives off a traditional vibe.
Pros
- Affordable (MSRP: $868)
- Light recoil
- Slim design
- Comes with a lifetime warranty
Cons
- Non-ambidextrous controls
- No front slide serrations
What Customers Say
Fired a couple of hundred rounds through it so far without any malfunctions. The safety and trigger both have a good crisp break. As a novice handgun shooter, I was able to shoot fairly good groups at 10 and 15 yards. Would recommend to anyone looking to buy a budget-friendly 1911 while still holding good quality.
Jared K.
Springfield Garrison 45 is a must have for several reasons. Its slim design excellent for conceal carry, has little recoil and is dependable every time. My wife has decided she needs a springfield garrison 45 also after firing a few shots.
William L.
Best Budget: Rock Island Armory 1911 Standard FS

Category | Rock Island Armory 1911 Standard FS | Category Average |
Ergonomics | 1 | 1.1 |
Trigger | 4.5 | 4.52 |
Quality | 4.4 | 4.23 |
Value | 2 | 1.21 |
Accuracy | 4.5 | 4.33 |
Score: 3.28/5
Specs:
- Type: Semi-Automatic, Recoil Operated
- Action: Single
- Caliber/Gauge: 45 ACP
- Capacity: 8
- Sight: Low Profile Dovetailed Front, Fixed Rear
- Slide: Parkerized
- Grip Type: Black Rubber
- Trigger Pull: 4 to 6 lb
- Frame Material: Steel
- Frame Finish: Parkerized
- Barrel Length: 5″
- Overall Length: 8.56″
- Weight: 2.49 lb
- Overall Height: 5-1/2″
- Overall Width: 1.42″
- Twist Rate: 1:16″
- Barrel Grooves: 6
- Barrel Type: Button-Rifled
The Rock Island Armory 1911 standard FS is an excellent choice for those who don’t want to spend a lot on a pistol. The pistol features wood grips that you can choose to replace with the checkered rubber grips that come in the box.
It has a parkerized matte finish and an angled, snag-free design that guarantees a smooth draw should the situation arise. It also features a skeletonized hammer and trigger with an adjustable over-travel stop.
Pros
- Very affordable (MSRP: $549)
- Ambidextrous safety
- Great finish
- Easy takedown
Cons
- Slanted front sight occasionally reflects sunlight, making it a little difficult to see
What Customers Say
This Rock Island Tactical 1911 is a nice pistol without the high price. The trigger pull is nice and helps with my making good hits. The best compliment I can give this handgun is that it is my every day care piece, I am not large but I am 6’1” and 215 lbs. My major complaint is the black on black sights. I am almost sixty two and my eyes need help. The sights are dovetails and replaceable but I used a red sight marker and colored the front sight.
Brian M.
Love it! Shoots good, feels great in my hand!
Steve D.
Best for Concealed Carry: Kimber Ultra Carry II

Category | Kimber Ultra Carry II | Category Average |
Ergonomics | 1.45 | 1.1 |
Trigger | 4.6 | 4.52 |
Quality | 4 | 4.23 |
Value | 1 | 1.21 |
Accuracy | 4 | 4.33 |
Score: 3.01/5
Specs:
- Caliber: 45 ACP
- Barrel Length: 3″ (Match Grade)
- Capacity: 7 + 1
- Grips: Black Synthetic
- Sights: Fixed Low Profile
- Weight (empty): 25 ounces
- Finish: Satin Silver
- Trigger (approx): 4.5 lbs
Now our next pick is pricey for several reasons. First is the shorter grip length that makes the Kimber Ultra Carry II easily concealable and easy to carry. Despite its compact construction, the magazine capacity remains 7 rounds even in .45 ACP. It’s great for concealed carry but not the best choice for competitive shooting. On the other hand, the light weight makes it easy for carrying all day comfortably.
However, because of its size, weight, and aluminum construction, the .45 ACP’s recoil is more noticeable with the Kimber Ultra Carry II compared to 1911 pistols with steel frames.
Pros
- Compact
- Ultra lightweight
Cons
- Expensive (MSRP: $1,021)
- Recoil is more noticeable than other models
What Customers Say
I carry this gun daily and it’s flawless. Like most 1911 platform guns, magazines are the key. KimPro or Wilson Combat will get you going. The gun also likes to be broken in with 200 rounds.
WayniacKT
I have had experience with two different Kimber ultras both ran flawless with Kimber mags and off the shelf ammo. To each own I am a 1911 guy and I carry a sig ultra in 9mm and trust it with my life.
Mikelane1399
Sig Sauer 1911 Pistol .45 ACP Fastback Emperor Scorpion Carry

Category | Sig Sauer 1911 Pistol .45 ACP Fastback Emperor Scorpion Carry | Category Average |
Ergonomics | 1 | 1.1 |
Trigger | 4.5 | 4.52 |
Quality | 4.5 | 4.23 |
Value | 1 | 1.21 |
Accuracy | 4.5 | 4.33 |
Score: 3.1/5
Specs:
- Caliber: 45 ACP
- Action Type: Semi-Auto
- Frame Size: Carry
- Grip Type: Black G10
- Frame Finish: Flat Dark Earth PVD
- Frame Material: Stainless Steel
- Slide Finish: Flat Dark Earth PVD
- Slide Material: Stainless Steel
- Trigger: Single Action Only
- Trigger Pull: 5lb
- Barrel Length: 4.2”
- Overall Length: 7.7”
- Overall Width: 1.4”
- Height: 5.5”
- Weight: 35 oz.
- Safety: Manual Thumb/Decocker & Grip Safety
- Magazines: (2) 8 round
- Sights: SIGLITE Night Sights
The Fastback Emperor Scorpion Carry is designed to get your grip high and it sticks to your hand like Velcro due to the stippling. It functions flawlessly and is accurate. The PVD finish looks fantastic, not to mention that it’s shockproof. However, the stock mags are subpar. Also, the notch in the rear sight tends to pick up light and obscure the front sight occasionally. If that bothers you, you might want to switch sights. Other than those minor drawbacks, this 1911 pistol is very reliable.
Pros
- Very accurate
- Crisp trigger
- Compact
- Great finish
Cons
- Expensive (MSRP: $$1,442.99)
What Customers Say
I bought mine in .357 Sig a year ago and it has a great feel in the hand and excellent accuracy. I put VZ MARSOC grips on it and it stays right in your hands. This is a carry weapon for me and I trust it with my life. The magazines for this pistol are a little quirky though. They could use a better follower as the rounds can dip a little bit when Read more about I bought mine in .357 Sig a year ago loading and bind up. Overall, great job Sig!
American
This has quickly become my favorite. The fit and finish is flawless, the fastback is perfect for minimizing printing and a joy to shoot. Oh, and what a good looking gun! Very happy. Sig Sauer hit a home run with this.
On P.
Ruger 1911 .45 ACP SR1911

Category | Ruger 1911 .45 ACP SR1911 | Category Average |
Ergonomics | 1.17 | 1.1 |
Trigger | 4.5 | 4.52 |
Quality | 4 | 4.23 |
Value | 1 | 1.21 |
Accuracy | 4.5 | 4.33 |
Score: 3.03/5
Specs:
- Caliber: .45 ACP
- Sights: 3-Dot Novak, Drift Adjustable
- Grips: Hardwood
- Barrel Length: 4.25″
- Overall Length: 7.75″
- Weight: 29.3 oz.
- Magazine: (2) 7 Round
- Slide Material: Stainless Steel
- Slide Finish: Low-Glare Stainless
- Frame Material: Anodized Aluminum
- Twist: 1:16″ RH
- Grooves: 6
The Ruger SR1911 features the original 1911 fire control, a skeletonized hammer, and a titanium firing pin for faster lock time. Its oversized beavertail grip safety guarantees reliability. It also has an extended thumb safety and a slide-stop lever that offers positive manipulation.
The SR1911 handles the .45 ACP’s recoil well, given that it’s not a full-size pistol. The SR1911’s magwell isn’t flared but its magazine release works smoothly.
Pros
- Reasonable price (MSRP: $899.99)
- Accurate
- Lightweight
- Smooth slide
- Aggressively-textured hardwood grips
Cons
- Non-ambidextrous controls
- No accessory rail
- No front slide serrations
What Customers Say
I’ve had the full-size SR1911 for several years. Never had any issues with it. It’s one of my favorites to shoot. Dont see them in the stores very much anymore though. I’d probably buy another or this Commander version. Joshua4470
reviewer1
I just bought mine last weekend and I love it. I own Colts and Kimbers not near as accurate Awesome gun ! Hope ya enjoy it. Great review.
Jebstewart9114
Taurus 1911 Full Size .45 ACP Pistol

Category | Taurus 1911 Full Size .45 ACP Pistol | Category Average |
Ergonomics | 1 | 1.1 |
Trigger | 4.5 | 4.52 |
Quality | 4 | 4.23 |
Value | 1 | 1.21 |
Accuracy | 4 | 4.33 |
Score: 2.9/5
Specs:
- Action: Single
- Caliber/Gauge: 45 ACP
- Capacity: 8
- Sight: Novak Drift Adjustable Front, Novak Drift Adjustable Rear
- Slide: Stainless Steel
- Safety: Firing Pin Block Grip, Manual
- Grip Type: Black Synthetic
- Frame Material: Steel
- Frame Finish: Stainless
- Barrel Length: 5″
- Overall Length: 8-1/2″
- Weight: 42 oz
- Frame Size: Full
- Height: 5-1/2″
- Width: 1-1/2″
- Barrel Type: Hammer Forged
A few features that we love on this pistol are the extended beavertail and memory pad, plus the cut-checkered grips that offer excellent control and consistency. It also comes with Novak drift-adjustable sights for improved accuracy. Its all-steel construction also helps in recoil mitigation. The factory mags that come with the Taurus PT1911 work flawlessly, but if you have a preferred magazine brand, the PT1911 will fire as efficiently with it.
Pros
- Very affordable (MSRP: $679.99)
- Light trigger pull
- Compatible with magazines from other brands
Cons
- Non-ambidextrous controls
What Customers Say
Great firearm for what I paid for it.
63jeepj20
I shot my first 45 today and it was this exact gun. I love this gun.
Antagonist King
Conclusion
That’s it, folks! Short but sweet, just the way we like it, so you can have more time at the range! We suggest you break in your new 1911 pistol properly. Once you do, it will function smoothly and reliably. Have fun!