Taurus PT1911: A Reliable and Accurate 1911-Style Pistol
As a firearms enthusiast, I was excited to get my hands on the Taurus PT1911, a 1911-style pistol chambered in .45 ACP. With its rugged build, reliable performance, and affordable price tag, I was eager to put it through its paces and see how it stacks up against the competition.
Design and Construction
The Taurus PT1911 has a classic 1911 design, with a stainless steel frame and slide, and a comfortable, ergonomic grip that requires minimal adjustment. The pistol weighs in at a manageable 38 oz (1.07 kg) with an empty magazine, making it easy to handle for extended shooting sessions. The slide is remarkably smooth, thanks to a generous coating of Teflon, which also helps reduce wear and tear.
- Ambidextrous manual safety: A must-have for lefties or those who want the added security of a manual safety.
- Checkered grip: Provides a solid, non-slip surface for a secure grip.
- Magazine extension: Although not necessary, the magazine extension provides additional storage for spare ammo.
Performance
In terms of accuracy, the Taurus PT1911 is a top-notch performer. With a 6-round magazine, I was consistently able to hit targets at 25 yards, with some impressive groupings at 50 yards. While not quite as accurate as some higher-end 1911s, the PT1911 still delivered impressive results.
- Accuracy: 2-3 MOA ( Minutes of Angle) at 25 yards, 4-5 MOA at 50 yards.
- Reloads: Smooth, with no issues or jamming during testing.
- Trigger pull: Single-action only, with a crisp, 4-5 lb (1.81-2.27 kg) trigger pull.
Ergonomics and Handling
The Taurus PT1911 fits comfortably in the hand, with a natural pointing ability and a balance that makes it easy to maneuver. The checkered grip provides a solid, non-slip surface, even with sweaty hands. While not as ergonomic as some dedicated ergonomic pistols, the PT1911 is still a comfortable shooter.
Cons
- Limited magazine capacity: Only 6 rounds, which may be a concern for some users.
- Please note that some users may experience minimal recoil pad binding or roll to the right
- A few minor cosmetic issues: Inconsistent finishes and minor areas of rough machining on the slide.
Conclusion
The Taurus PT1911 is a solid, reliable, and accurate 1911-style pistol that delivers on its promise of a classic 1911 experience. With its rugged build, comfortable ergonomics, and reasonable price tag, I’d recommend the PT1911 as a great entry-point for those new to the world of 1911s or a reliable, no-fuss option for seasoned shooter.
Rating: 4.5/5
Recommendation: For those looking for a solid, all-around 1911, the Taurus PT1911 is a great choice. However, if you’re seeking a more precise, high-end 1911 or specific features like a beavertail grip safety or a more aggressive trigger pull, you may want to consider alternative options.
Pricing:
- MSRP: $499.99
- Street price: around $400
Additional Resources
- Taurus PT1911 Review by Handgun.defineProperty Handbook
- 1911 Semi-Automatic Pistols: A Comprehensive Guide by Abraham Zelmanovitz
- 5 Best 1911 Pistols for Self-defense by Shooting Illustrated
If you have any further questions or would like to share your own Taurus PT1911 experience, feel free to leave a comment below!
