Maximus Arms Gladiator: Built Like a Tank

by
posted on July 11, 2014
** 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. **
Maxiumus1.jpg

Looking for an M1911 literally built like a tank? The Maximus Arms Gladiator is the only M1911 manufactured using 17-4PH: a heat-resistant steel that, according to the company’s website, is used in the Vulcan 20 mm Gatling Gun, Patriot missile and the Abrams Tank.

Though it’s built on a series-70 platform, the Gladiator is far from a common clone, since it possesses more than 80 dimensional changes designed to improve the pistol’s reliability, accuracy and function. Such features include an extractor, plunger tube and accessory rail that are integral to the frame. Several of the Gladiator’s other components focus on creating an optimum firing grip for the shooter, including stippled composite stocks, a flat mainspring housing with scale-like texturing and a custom high-ride beaver tail grip safety that allows for a high grip under the slide. Designed and built in the United States, even the suggested retail price-$1,776-is all-American.

Latest

firing a musket rifle
firing a musket rifle

Today’s Makers of Yesterday’s Firearms

Original firearms from the American Revolution era are valuable and best preserved for posterity. For those who want to shoot them, several modern makers offer quality reproductions.

Left Turn (Bolt): Tikka's New Left-Handed T3x Ace Rifles

Lefties of the world unite and rejoice, as Tikka has announced left-hand versions of its award-winning T3x Ace chassis rifles.

The Armed Citizen® Sept. 14, 2026

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

Skills Check: Rifle Standard Delta 2

Carbine performance is all about maintaining control. The Rifle Standard Delta 2 is a drill that pressures recoil control, visual discipline and cadence as distance decreases and time compresses.

Gun Sales Up for the 7th Month in a Row in 2026

The National Shooting Sports Foundation’s (NSSF) estimate of last month’s gun sales was up 2.2 percent compared to August 2025.

Caring For & Feeding Your Cap-and-Ball Revolvers

Compared to pistoleros of the 19th century, today’s handgunners have it easy. It's not enough just to get an old-school, cap-and-ball revolver. You also need to acquire everything to shoot and clean it.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.