1911 Centennial

[Colt 45]

Next year of course is the 100th anniversary of the adoption of the 1911 by the US Army. There are at least 2 manufacturers that are introducing "centennial" 1911s -- Colt and Kimber. Why Kimber I don't know. But is anyone planning on ordering one? I think Colt is taking orders for their versions beginning in November, with delivery in January. From the pictures that I have seen they look pretty "gaudy" to me at least. I wish they would produce a plain original configuration version for common folk like me.

Max

[Bman505]

At $4,352, I doubt I will be getting one! I really don't even like the way they look.


http://www.kimberamerica.com/images/pistols/centennial/centennial3.jpg
Caliber Item # MSRP
.45 ACP 3000249 $4,352


Height (90° to barrel)5.25 inches
Weight (with empty magazine)38 ounces
Length8.7 inches
Magazine capacity7 rounds
Recoil spring weight16 pounds
Special FeaturesBuilt in Kimber® Custom Shop™
Wood & leather presentation case
Limited edition of 250

Frame
MaterialSteel
Finish typeColor case hardened
Width1.28 inches
Thumb safetyExtended
Guide rodMil-Spec
Special featuresNitre blue pins & trigger
Special serial number


Slide
MaterialSteel
Finish typeCharcoal blue
Special featuresFine scroll engraving
Narrow slide serrations

Barrel
TypeMatch grade
Length5 inches
MaterialSteel
Twist rate (left hand)16
Special featureCharcoal blue

Sights
TypeAdjustable
Radius6.8 inches

Grips
MaterialIvory
TypeSolid, smooth

Trigger
TypeSolid match grade
Factory setting4-5 pounds

[Colt 45]

There is a second model, one made for the "common" man. This one doesn't look too bad. It is the model 01911ANVIII. You can see it here in this PDF file:

Colt Commemorative (http://www.coltsmfg.com/upload/news/100yr%20Commerative%20Flyer.pdf)

Production is limited to the number of orders received by November 30th. I still don't know if I want one. I'll have to see what they are asking for it. It is my understanding that all 1911s produced next year by Colt will have a special roll mark commemorating the anniversary. I may get one of the regular production ones, such as the Defender.

Max

[Colt 45]

I find the looks of it very appealing. I love the case hardened frame. Too rich for my blood though.

Max

http://www.kimberamerica.com/images/pistols/centennial/centennial_edition_large.jpg

At $4,352, I doubt I will be getting one! I really don't even like the way they look.


http://www.kimberamerica.com/images/pistols/centennial/centennial3.jpg
Caliber Item # MSRP
.45 ACP 3000249 $4,352


Height (90° to barrel)5.25 inches
Weight (with empty magazine)38 ounces
Length8.7 inches
Magazine capacity7 rounds
Recoil spring weight16 pounds
Special FeaturesBuilt in Kimber® Custom Shop™
Wood & leather presentation case
Limited edition of 250

Frame
MaterialSteel
Finish typeColor case hardened
Width1.28 inches
Thumb safetyExtended
Guide rodMil-Spec
Special featuresNitre blue pins & trigger
Special serial number


Slide
MaterialSteel
Finish typeCharcoal blue
Special featuresFine scroll engraving
Narrow slide serrations

Barrel
TypeMatch grade
Length5 inches
MaterialSteel
Twist rate (left hand)16
Special featureCharcoal blue

Sights
TypeAdjustable
Radius6.8 inches

Grips
MaterialIvory
TypeSolid, smooth

Trigger
TypeSolid match grade
Factory setting4-5 pounds

[Colt 45]

Of course I am very partial to case hardened frames!

Max

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_UgaSXsERlsw/TIQ4f6MVD3I/AAAAAAAAQP8/Rfz8RJlfpE8/s400/IMGP0160.JPG