Concealed carry of firearms has become increasingly popular among gun owners in recent years. One of the most popular firearms for concealed carry is the 1911 pistol. This classic American firearm has been a favorite of military, law enforcement, and recreational shooters for over a century.
The 1911 is a reliable and accurate firearm that is easy to shoot and maintain. It is also a relatively compact firearm that can be easily concealed on the body. However, there are some important factors to consider when choosing a 1911 for concealed carry. This includes factors such as weight, size, and reliability. Additionally, it is important to choose a holster that is specifically designed for concealed carry of a 1911.
In this article, we will explore the best options for concealed carry of a 1911 pistol. We will provide a comprehensive guide to choosing the right 1911 for concealed carry, including factors such as price, weight, and reliability. We will also discuss the importance of choosing the right holster for concealed carry of a 1911, and provide tips for carrying a 1911 safely and effectively. Whether you are a seasoned gun owner or a first-time buyer, this article will provide valuable insights into the world of concealed carry with a 1911 pistol.
History of the 1911
The 1911 pistol is a classic American firearm that has been in use for over a century. This section will briefly cover the design and development of the 1911 pistol.
Design
The 1911 pistol was designed by John Moses Browning, a prolific inventor who is also credited with creating the Browning Automatic Rifle (BAR) and the Browning Hi-Power. Browning’s design for the 1911 pistol was based on his previous work with the Colt Model 1900 and the Browning Model 1903.
The 1911 pistol was a semi-automatic, single-action pistol that used a .45 ACP cartridge. It featured a grip safety and a manual safety, which made it a very safe firearm to use. The 1911 pistol was also known for its accuracy and reliability, which made it a popular choice for military and law enforcement personnel.
Development
The development of the 1911 pistol began in 1906, when the U.S. Army requested a new firearm to replace the aging Colt Model 1892 revolver. Browning’s design was selected, and the 1911 pistol was officially adopted by the U.S. Army in 1911.
Over the years, the 1911 pistol has undergone several changes and improvements. In the early 1920s, the 1911A1 variant was introduced, which featured a shorter trigger, a longer grip safety spur, and a wider front sight. The 1911A1 variant was used by the U.S. military in World War II and the Korean War.
Today, the 1911 pistol is still in use by military and law enforcement personnel, as well as civilian gun owners. It has also become a popular choice for concealed carry due to its slim profile and reliability.
Concealed Carry Considerations
When it comes to concealed carry of a 1911, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind. These include concealment options and holsters.
Concealment Options
There are a variety of options available for concealing a 1911, including waistband holsters, inside jacket pockets, belt loops, shirt pockets, handbags/purses, under pants, inside-the-waistband, shoulder holsters, specialty garments, and pocket holsters.
Each option has its pros and cons, and it’s important to choose the option that works best for your body type, clothing style, and carrying preferences. For example, a waistband holster may be more comfortable for some people, while others may prefer a shoulder holster for better accessibility.
Holsters
When it comes to holsters, there are a few key factors to consider, including retention, comfort, and accessibility.
Retention refers to how securely the holster holds the firearm in place, while still allowing for a quick draw when needed. Comfort is important because if the holster is uncomfortable to wear, you may be less likely to carry your firearm regularly. Accessibility is also crucial, as you want to be able to quickly and easily access your firearm in case of an emergency.
There are a variety of holster types available for the 1911, including inside-the-waistband, outside-the-waistband, shoulder holsters, ankle holsters, and more. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, and it’s important to choose the one that best suits your needs.
Training and Practice
When it comes to concealed carry, training and practice are essential for safety and proficiency. A 1911 pistol is a popular choice for concealed carry, but it requires proper training and practice to handle it safely and effectively.
Safety Considerations
Safety should always be the top priority when handling firearms. Before training or practice, it is important to review and understand the basic safety rules. Here are some safety considerations to keep in mind when training with a 1911 pistol:
- Always keep the gun pointed in a safe direction
- Keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot
- Be sure of your target and what is beyond it
- Use appropriate eye and ear protection
- Never use alcohol or drugs before or during shooting
Range Practice Tips
Range practice is an important part of training with a 1911 pistol. Here are some tips to make the most out of your range practice:
- Start with dry-fire practice to improve trigger control and sight alignment
- Use a holster that fits your firearm and allows for a quick and safe draw
- Practice shooting from different positions and distances to simulate real-life scenarios
- Incorporate movement into your practice to improve your ability to shoot on the move
- Keep track of your progress and set achievable goals for improvement
It is important to remember that training and practice should be ongoing to maintain proficiency with your 1911 pistol. Consistent practice will help you develop muscle memory and improve your accuracy and speed.
Maintenance and Upkeep
Maintaining and keeping your 1911 concealed carry pistol in good condition is crucial for optimal reliability and function. In this section, we will discuss the cleaning procedures and common issues that you may encounter while maintaining your 1911 pistol.
Cleaning Procedures
Cleaning your 1911 pistol is essential for maintaining its reliability and function. Here are some steps to follow for proper cleaning:
- Disassemble your pistol: Begin by removing the magazine and clearing the chamber. Then, disassemble your pistol by removing the slide, barrel, recoil spring, and guide rod.
- Clean the barrel: Use a bore brush and a cleaning rod to clean the barrel. Run the brush through the barrel several times and then use a clean patch to wipe the bore clean.
- Clean the slide and frame: Use a clean rag or a brush to clean the slide and frame of your pistol. Pay special attention to the rails, as they can accumulate dirt and grime.
- Lubricate the pistol: After cleaning, apply a thin layer of lubricant to the moving parts of your pistol. This will help to prevent corrosion and ensure smooth operation.
- Reassemble your pistol: Reassemble your pistol by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure that all parts are properly aligned and secure.
Common Issues
While maintaining your 1911 pistol, you may encounter some common issues. Here are some tips on how to address them:
- Failure to feed: This can be caused by a dirty magazine or a weak recoil spring. Clean your magazine and replace your recoil spring if necessary.
- Failure to extract: This can be caused by a dirty chamber or a worn extractor. Clean your chamber and replace your extractor if necessary.
- Firing pin problems: This can be caused by a dirty firing pin channel or a worn firing pin. Clean your firing pin channel and replace your firing pin if necessary.
By following these cleaning procedures and addressing common issues, you can keep your 1911 concealed carry pistol in top condition for optimal reliability and function.
