Auto Ordnance 1911A1 | Gun Carrier Handgun Review

If you're into military style 1911 then the Auto Ordnance 1911A1 will satisfy your desire for a piece of history that can still shoot. The A-O 1911 is one of the closest reproduction you can get on the market today!

Auto Ordnance 1911A1: A Piece Of History In Your Hands

Most of the 1911 enthusiasts knew the old Auto Ordnance had a bad rep. The quality was questionable and there are a lot of negative comments about it. But things definitely changed when Kahr Arms bought the A-O from Numrich Gun Parts Corp. Kahr Arms is a well-known manufacturer of quality pistols sold at a reasonable price and with its expertise in engineering, A-O received more than just a new look. They came up with a more accurate Auto Ordnance 1911A1, ideal for home protection and personal defense.

Gun Specs

image via alloutdoor

Through time, John Moses Browning's masterpiece has seen very little change from its original design. And the Auto Ordnance 1911A1 by far is one closest to the standard WWII version. Of course, Colt always comes first but A-O under the new owners has done a great job in reproducing the iconic pistol. Below are the specifications of the Auto Ordnance 1911A1.

• Model: 1911PKZSE
• Barrel: 5”
• Length: 8.5″
• Weight: 39 ounces
• Caliber: .45 ACP
• Capacity: 7-shot mag
• Features: Single-action
• Finish: Parkerized
• Grips: Brown checkered plastic
• Sights: Blade front, drift-adjustable rear

Ease of Use and Performance

image via TheLocknLoadChannel

Shooting the Auto Ordnance 1911 is like riding a time machine and it takes you back in time where WWII is at its peak. The A-O is almost a spot-on replica with accuracy and reliability of the G.I. 1911 pistol. The trigger is kinda heavy but it breaks clean and the recoil is moderate. I tried to run a couple of hundred rounds using 230gr FMJ and it functioned flawlessly from 10 yards.

Pros and Cons

image via gunsamerica 

Gun enthusiasts that are also into military history will love the Auto-Ordnance 1911A1. The finish is attractive and the overall fit of the components are very good. It is accurate and reliable although the controls are a bit stiff. There are a few instances you'll encounter misfeeds if you use 200gr JHP with the factory magazine. The void part of the hollow point sometimes rests on the feed ramp of the A-O. But when you use the recommended 230gr FMJ on a different magazine like a Colt Checkmate, the result is impeccable.

Overall Verdict and Price

image via rifleshooter 

Auto Ordnance 1911A1 is one of the best replicas of the iconic 1911. So if you want a piece of military history which you can still shoot then this pistol won't disappoint you. You can also use it for an everyday carry and add modifications but most of the people purchase this pistol because of its historical feel and not for personal defense. And one cool feature of the A-O is the price. You can get this for less than $500. A reliable, accurate American legend at a low price sounds like a very good deal.

Watch this video and check out how the Auto Ordnance 1911 performs at the shooting range!

As a 1911 enthusiast, I would really like to thank John Moses Browning! The design of the 1911 pistol is a true masterpiece from a real genius. It is a handgun rich in history with unmatched accuracy and reliability that has a sweet spot in the heart of a true gun enthusiast. And having even a replica of this iconic pistol at a reasonable price is certainly a good catch.

Are you a 1911 enthusiast? You can share your favorite 1911 brand in the comments below! 

Now you have an idea about Auto Ordnance 1911A1, check out this handgun review on American Tactical FX45 1911!

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Editor’s Note – This post was originally published in June 2015 and has been updated for quality and relevancy.  

Featured Image Via mitch cornacchia/1911addicts