NRA Gun of the Week: Tisas 1911A1 US Army

by
posted on July 31, 2020
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
SDS Imports is delivering to the U.S. firearms market an M1911A1 pistol that is a respectable clone of a classic Browning design priced well below other contemporary reproductions. The Tisas 1911A1 US Army pistol is a faithful reproduction of the original contract gun that was requested by the U.S. government during World War II.

Right-side view of Tisas 1911A1 US Army pistol on white background with text on image calling out make and model.

The Tisas single-action pistol features the design enhancements originally employed by Colt, Union Switch and Signal, Singer Manufacturing Company, Ithaca Gun Company and Remington-Rand that make this model worthy of its A1 title. Aside from the gun’s military-style Parkerized finish, Tisas includes the differentiating features the 1911A1 model had over its predecessor—an enhanced short-reach trigger, arched mainspring housing, grip safety spur and hammer spur are included. The only difference from the original 1911A1 design is the inclusion of series 70 lockwork.

Hammer spur of a 1911 pistol shown on white background.

Tisas provides a set of stock panels that are molded after the original plastic grips included on wartime 1911s. Overall fit and finish of the Tisas model is likely better than most all government-issued M1911A1s we’ve seen. The reproduction example houses a 5” hammer-forged steel barrel with included feed ramp and lip. The slide is also forged from steel.

Man wearing protective shooting gear and a ballcap is firing a 1911 pistol on a shooting range.

Our range experience with the Tisas was flawless. The lack of gratuitous branding is welcomed and provides for nostalgic appearance of a classic American design. Given its price and mil-spec configuration, the Tisasa 1911A1 US Army appears to be a great option for military arms enthusiasts and DIY gunsmiths looking for budget-friendly projects to invest in.

Stamping along the left side of a pistol slide communicating the make, model and manufacturer.

To learn more about the Tisas 1911A1 US Army, watch our NRA Gun of the Week video above.

Tisas 1911A1 US Army Specifications
Manufacturer: Tisas, Turkey
Importer: SDS Imports
Model: Tisas 1911A1 US Army
Action Type: single-action, semi-automatic, center-fire pistol
Chambering: .45 ACP
Barrel: 5” hammer-forged steel
Frame: steel
Slide: steel
Sights: square-notch rear, post
Trigger: series 70, single-action pull
Magazine: seven-round detachable box
Finish: Parkerized
MSRP: $399
www.sdsimports.com

Further Reading:
TISAS Regent BR9 Hi Power Pistol
The U.S. “.45 Automatics”
The Trials of the M1911
Conditions of Readiness for the 1911 Pistol
The CMP M1911s: The Inside Story

Extras:








Latest

Trend Summer Ending
Trend Summer Ending

Numerous Companies Offering Firearm, Ammo Rebates This Fall

Now that summer 2025 is drawing to a close, we'd like to welcome in the rebate season, and this year's specials are hard to ignore!

Preview: North American Arms Sentinel

The Sentinel from North American Arms combines the aesthetic and .22 WMR chambering of the Pug with the Sidewinder’s frame-mounted swing-out cylinder (to the right side, mind you) and far simpler reloading process.

New For 2025: Chiappa Big Badger

Chiappa's Little Badger has long been a popular, affordable, break-action survival rifle chambered for the .22 Long Rifle cartridge. Now, the design has been upsized into the Big Badger, available in several centerfire chamberings.

Preview: Self Reliance Outfitters Pathfinder Canteen Trail Kit

The U.S.G.I. canteen and cup are classic pieces of kit due to their efficient design and durable construction, and they are practically updated in the Self Reliance Outfitters Pathfinder Canteen Trail Kit.

Gun Of The Week: Browning X-Bolt 2 Speed SPR

On this episode, we’re taking a closer look at the latest version of one of the most popular bolt-action rifle platforms out there. This is the Browning X-Bolt 2 Speed SPR.

The Armed Citizen® Aug. 29, 2025

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.