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Some products are so iconic that even as time and technology progress, demand remains for the tried and trusted classic. Throughout its history, Colt’s Manufacturing Co. has cataloged several such products, and it’s encouraging to see the Hartford, Conn., maker bring a vintage rendition of the Government Model 1911 back into its lineup. Featuring Series 70 operation, all-steel construction, double diamond rosewood stocks, a spur-style hammer and a 5” barrel chambered for .45 ACP, the 1911 Classic looks and feels just right. While not an exact replica of any specific model—Colt did take some liberties to enhance construction and performance, including a National Match barrel—the 1911 Classic is nonetheless a welcome introduction, and should tick the box for enthusiasts interested in perhaps the most-American of service sidearms. Watch the video for more.
Charter Arms updated one of the oldest models in its lineup with the new Pathfinder II, which features a lightweight 7075 aluminum frame, making it more well-balanced and easier to carry.
The 2011-style pistol was designed to address the capacity limitations of the single-stack M1911 platform, and Kimber's approach to the concept is its 2K11, a competition-ready offering with several notable features.
Manufactured in New Haven, Conn., in late 1940, this Hi-Standard pistol was shipped as a Model “A,” but a heavier Model “D” barrel was installed later to replace the original, light barrel, leading one American Rifleman reader to call it a Model “A-D.”
In the effort to help tens of thousands of critically ill children and their families across the nation through local Ronald McDonald Houses, Ruger is among some of the industry’s foremost Platinum-level sponsors of The Kids & Clays Foundation.
The future is shaping up to be a good one for fans of Smith & Wesson revolvers. The iconic American company had released 14 new models thus far in 2025 at the time this was written mid-year. And, with one exception, they have all shared a common feature—no internal lock.