When it comes to .45 ACP pistols, the 1911 is an iconic firearm that has been in use for over a century. It has been used by military personnel, law enforcement officers, and civilians alike. Two popular variants of the 1911 are the Government and Commander models. While they share many similarities, there are also some notable differences between them.
The History of the 1911
The 1911 was designed by John Browning and was adopted by the US Army in 1911 as their standard-issue sidearm. It saw extensive use in both World War I and World War II. The original design had a 5-inch barrel, a single-stack magazine, and an overall length of 8.25 inches. It had a capacity of 7+1 rounds of .45 ACP ammunition.
The Government Model
The Government Model is the original 1911. It has a 5-inch barrel, a full-size frame, and a magazine capacity of 7+1 rounds. It is a full-size pistol that is designed for duty use, home defense, and target shooting. The weight of the Government Model can vary depending on the materials used, but it is typically around 40 ounces.
The Commander Model
The Commander Model was introduced in 1949 as a lighter, more compact version of the Government Model. It has a 4.25-inch barrel, a shorter slide and frame, and a magazine capacity of 7+1 rounds. It was designed as a more concealable option for civilians and law enforcement officers. The weight of the Commander Model is typically around 35 ounces.
Size and Weight
The biggest difference between the Government and Commander models is their size and weight. The Government Model is a full-size pistol that is designed for duty use and target shooting. It has a longer barrel and slide, as well as a larger frame. This makes it more accurate and easier to shoot, but also makes it more difficult to conceal. The weight of the Government Model can make it difficult to carry for extended periods of time.
The Commander Model, on the other hand, is a more compact version of the 1911. It has a shorter barrel and slide, as well as a smaller frame. This makes it easier to conceal, but also makes it slightly less accurate and more difficult to shoot. The weight of the Commander Model is lighter than the Government Model, making it more comfortable to carry for extended periods of time.
Sights
The sights on the Government and Commander models are also slightly different. The Government Model typically has larger sights that are easier to see and acquire. These sights are also more durable and can withstand heavy use. The Commander Model, on the other hand, typically has smaller sights that are more difficult to see and acquire. These sights are also less durable and may need to be replaced more frequently.
Recoil
The recoil of the Government and Commander models is also slightly different. Due to its larger size and weight, the Government Model typically has less felt recoil than the Commander Model. This means that it is easier to shoot accurately and quickly. The Commander Model, on the other hand, has more felt recoil due to its smaller size and lighter weight. This can make it more difficult to shoot accurately and quickly, especially for novice shooters.
Accuracy
The accuracy of the Government and Commander models is similar, but the Government Model typically has a slight edge due to its longer barrel and larger frame. This makes it more stable and easier to shoot accurately at longer distances. The Commander Model, on the other hand, can still be accurate, but may require more practice and skill to shoot accurately at longer distances.
Maintenance
The maintenance of the Government and Commander models is the same. They both require regular cleaning and lubrication to ensure proper function. They also both have a similar takedown procedure, making it easy to disassemble and clean them.
Price
The price of the Government and Commander models can vary depending on the manufacturer and materials used. Generally speaking, the Government Model is more expensive than the Commander Model due to its larger size and heavier weight. However, there are many different manufacturers that produce both the Government and Commander models, so prices can vary widely.
Conclusion
The Government and Commander models are both excellent .45 ACP pistols that have been in use for over a century. They both have their strengths and weaknesses, and which one you choose depends on your specific needs and preferences. The Government Model is a full-size pistol that is designed for duty use and target shooting, while the Commander Model is a more compact option that is easier to conceal. Both models are accurate, reliable, and easy to maintain, making them excellent choices for anyone in the market for a .45 ACP pistol.