Colt M1911A1 (Colt .45) (USA)
| Length | 21.9cm / 8.6in |
| Weight | 1.36kg / 3lb |
| Muzzle velocity | 252m / 825ft per second |
| Cartridge | .45in / 11.43mm |
| Magazine | 7 rounds |
The Colt M1911A1, more commonly known as the ‘45’, first saw service nearly 100 years ago as the Colt M1911. The massive .45in calibre bullet provided an immense amount of stopping power, making the pistol a substantial weapon. This heavy automatic piece was revised with the A1 version prior to World War II and, even though it still weighed a hefty 3lbs (1.36kg), the US military services used it through the war and the rest of the 20th century.
In many ways the Colt 45 is an iconic American sidearm and, while it may be heavy and somewhat difficult to shoot, many of its owners consider it one of the best pistols ever made. Though no longer regulation issue, the old '45' is still carried unofficially by some combat troops.
