Even if more than one century old, the famed 1911 design is still at the top: Remington has announced a new variant of its Model 1911 R1, the “Ultralight Commander”.
The most substantial feature of the Model 1911 R1 Ultralight Commander is its type III hard coat anodized lightweight aluminum frame.
The new frame reduces weight by 20 percent (7,5 oz., or 212 grams less) compared to a steel framed 1911, bringing the overall weight of this pistol to just 30 oz. (850 grams).
With checkered laminate grips and a PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) finished slide, Remington’s newest addition also features an adjustable trigger, fiber optic front sight, adjustable rear sight, front and rear cocking serrations. An extended beavertail and skeletonized hammer are also standard. Magazine capacity is 8 rounds. The 4.25-inch stainless steel barrel is chambered, as you might expect in a 1911-style handgun, for the .45 ACP cartridge.
The suggested retail price on the Model 1911 R1 Ultralight Commander is 849 US dollars.
Remington 1911 R1 Ultralight Commander: specifications
| Model: | 1911 R1 Ultralight Commander |
| Caliber: | .45 ACP |
| Capacity: | 8 + 1 rounds |
| Barrel length: | 4.25" |
| Overall Length: | 7.5" |
| Surface finish: | PVD coating (slide) - anodized (frame) |
| Trigger Pull: | 3.5 – 5 Pounds |
| Weight: | 850 g |
| Price (MSRP): | $ 849 |
Remington and 1911s: a long history
Remington manufactured more than 21,000 Model 1911s in the last months of World War I, shutting down their production in 1919. In 2010, some 91 years later, they launched the 1911 R1 model. Remington’s 1911s have all the technical features of modern 1911s, yet still clinging to traditional style and cosmetics so dear to the hearts of pistol shooters. Nothing new under the sun? Maybe. But at least it’s lightweight now.
For more information on the Ruger SR1911, visit the manufacturer’s website.
