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Taurus, a well-known manufacturer of budget-friendly firearms, has built its reputation with affordable concealed carry pistols, revolvers, and handguns designed for everyday use. In 2005, Taurus introduced the 1911 model to offer shooters an accessible version of the classic 1911 design, balancing tradition with modern performance at a fraction of the price.
From my experience with the Taurus 1911, I was impressed by its solid build and smooth trigger, making it a pleasure to shoot. The key Taurus 1911 specs, including its 5-inch barrel and 8+1 magazine capacity, combine with reliable accuracy and .45 ACP power. In terms of Taurus 1911 performance, the pistol delivers excellent handling, while its price remains competitive among other 1911-style handguns.
In this review, you'll discover more about the Taurus 1911 specs, its performance on the range, and whether the Taurus 1911 price makes it a good investment. Keep reading to learn why the Taurus 1911 stands out as one of the best Taurus pistols for those seeking reliability and value in a full-size handgun.
Taurus 1911: Background & First Impressions
When I first picked up the Taurus 1911, its weight and balance immediately gave the impression of a handgun designed for precision and durability. The origin of the Taurus 1911 lies in the manufacturer’s desire to offer an affordable yet reliable version of the classic 1911 design. Taurus introduced this model to compete with some of the best 1911 manufacturers, providing shooters with a quality option at a fraction of the price.
The Taurus 1911, also known as the PT1911, is a full-size, single-action Taurus pistol chambered in .45 ACP, designed to deliver the classic 1911 feel with a modern twist. Its design is based on the original Colt M1911, a model known for its long-standing military and civilian use.
Key Features of Taurus 1911
The Taurus 1911 is chambered in .45 ACP, offering a standard magazine capacity of 8+1 rounds, which provides ample firepower for both self-defense and range use. One of the standout Taurus 1911 features is its robust construction, with a steel frame and slide, ensuring durability and reliability. The Taurus 1911 barrel length is 5 inches, making it ideal for target shooting and home defense, as its full-size dimensions contribute to improved accuracy and control.
A key benefit of the Taurus 1911 is its smooth, crisp single-action trigger, which enhances shooting precision. However, one common Taurus 1911 problem is its weight, as the all-steel construction makes it heavier than some other types of 1911 pistols, which may not be ideal for those seeking a lighter carry option.
Main Specs of Taurus 1911
The Taurus 1911 is a full-size, precision handgun, featuring an 8+1 round magazine capacity in the powerful .45 ACP caliber. Here's a look at the key Taurus 1911 specifications.
| Taurus 1911 Specs | Taurus 1911 Value |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .45 ACP |
| Magazine Capacity | 8+1 |
| Height | 5.45 in |
| Width | 1.5 in |
| Overall Length | 8.5 in |
| Barrel Length | 5 in |
| Front Sight | Fixed Novak-style |
| Rear Sight | Drift Adjustable Novak |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Accessory Rail | No |
| Red Dot Ready | No |
| Weight | 40 oz |
| Price | Varies by retailer |
Taurus 1911 Pros and Cons
The Taurus 1911 stands out for its affordability while delivering the classic 1911 experience, making it a great option for budget-conscious shooters who want reliable performance. One of the key pros of the Taurus 1911 is its crisp single-action trigger, which enhances accuracy and control during shooting. However, a notable con of the Taurus 1911 is its weight, as its all-steel frame can make it less comfortable for extended carry. The pros and cons of the Taurus 1911 highlight its value for target shooting and home defense, though it may not be ideal for everyday concealed carry.
What are the main advantages of Taurus 1911?
The Taurus 1911 offers several advantages, making it a solid choice for those seeking a reliable and affordable 1911-style pistol. The key Taurus 1911 benefits are listed below.
- Crisp Trigger: One of the main Taurus 1911 advantages is its smooth single-action trigger, which enhances shooting accuracy.
- Durable Construction: Built with a steel frame and slide, the Taurus 1911 is designed for long-lasting use, a major Taurus 1911 pro.
- Affordable Price: The Taurus 1911 delivers the 1911 experience at a much lower cost than many competitors, providing great value for the price.
These Taurus 1911 pros make it a popular choice for shooters looking for performance without breaking the bank.
What are the main disadvantages of Taurus 1911?
Just as mentioned earlier, the biggest disadvantage of the Taurus 1911 is its weight, which can make it uncomfortable for extended carry. Besides that, many shooters have reported various Taurus 1911 problems, which are generally easy to address with minor tweaks. For more details, check out our blog on common Taurus 1911 problems and how to resolve them. Below is a list of the main Taurus 1911 cons.
- Taurus 1911 Recoil: The .45 ACP chambering results in significant recoil, which may affect shooting comfort for some users.
- Taurus 1911 Weight: The all-steel frame adds extra weight, making it less ideal for concealed carry.
- Taurus 1911 Sights: The factory-installed sights are fixed, limiting customization options for precision shooting.
These Taurus 1911 disadvantages are manageable with some adjustments and practice.
Best Upgrades for Taurus 1911
Upgrading your Taurus 1911 with aftermarket accessories is a great way to enhance the pistol's performance, accuracy, and handling. These Taurus 1911 upgrades allow shooters to tailor the firearm to their specific needs, improving its versatility for various shooting applications. Whether you're looking to boost precision or overall comfort, aftermarket accessories for Taurus 1911 can provide those enhancements.
Popular Taurus 1911 accessories include upgraded sights for quicker target acquisition, enhanced grips for better control, and trigger modifications for a smoother shooting experience. These upgrades ensure that your Taurus 1911 is fine-tuned for optimal performance in any situation.
What are the best Taurus 1911 accessories?
Upgrading your Taurus 1911 with the right accessories can significantly improve its performance, accuracy, and handling. Here are some of the best Taurus 1911 accessories to consider.
- Best Taurus 1911 Red Dots: The Trijicon RMR is a top red dot for Taurus 1911, offering superior durability and precision. If you opt for a red dot, you’ll need a custom Taurus 1911 red dot holster to accommodate both the optic and the pistol.
- Best Taurus 1911 Lights: The Streamlight TLR-1 HL is a powerful light, perfect for low-light environments. A custom light-bearing holster is essential if you're carrying your Taurus 1911 with a light or laser.
- Best Taurus 1911 Sights: Novak-style sights are highly recommended for better accuracy and quick target acquisition.
- Best Grip for Taurus 1911: Hogue G10 grips are the best grip for Taurus 1911, providing enhanced control and comfort during extended shooting sessions.
- Best Taurus 1911 Extended Magazine: Wilson Combat 10-round extended magazines offer increased capacity while maintaining reliability and balance.
- Best Taurus 1911 Holsters: Let’s now take a closer look at the best Taurus 1911 holsters for secure and comfortable carry.
- Best Taurus 1911 Gun Belt: The Taurus 1911 1.5" Basket Weave Gun Belt provides excellent support and durability, making it the best option for carrying your pistol comfortably.
- Best Taurus 1911 Magazine Holder: The Taurus 1911 Leather Double Mag Pouch is ideal for securely carrying extra magazines.
These Taurus 1911 upgrades ensure your firearm is optimized for enhanced performance and usability.
Taurus 1911 Holsters: How to Choose the Best Holster for Taurus 1911?
Taurus 1911 holsters are among the best accessories to enhance the safety, accessibility, and comfort of carrying this full-size handgun. Choosing the right Taurus 1911 holster is crucial for ensuring a secure and comfortable carry experience. To select the best holster for Taurus 1911, there are a few important factors to consider.
- Intended Use: The best Taurus 1911 holsters depend on whether you're using the pistol for concealed carry, open carry, or range shooting.
- Carry Style: Inside-the-waistband (IWB) holsters provide excellent concealment, while outside-the-waistband (OWB) holsters are better for quick access and open carry.
- Material: Holsters come in leather, offering comfort and durability, or kydex, for a more secure and rigid fit. Hybrid options combine the benefits of both materials.
- Accessories: If your Taurus 1911 is equipped with a red dot or light, it's essential to choose a holster specifically designed to accommodate these features.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can easily find the best holster for Taurus 1911 that fits your needs. For more details, check out our article on 1911: Reviews, Accessories, Holsters.
What are the best Taurus 1911 concealed carry holsters?
For effective concealed carry, the best Taurus 1911 concealed carry holsters combine comfort, discretion, and accessibility. Several holster styles are ideal for carrying the Taurus 1911 discreetly.
- Taurus 1911 IWB Holsters: Inside-the-waistband holsters are the top choice for concealment, keeping the gun close to the body for optimal discretion while still allowing quick access.
- Taurus 1911 OWB Holsters: Outside-the-waistband holsters offer easier access but require a cover garment for proper concealment, making them better for those who prioritize quick draw.
- Taurus 1911 Shoulder Holsters: Great for off-the-waist carry, these holsters work well in colder weather when a jacket can assist with concealment, providing comfort during extended wear.
Choosing the best holster depends on your carry style and personal comfort preferences.
Best Taurus 1911 IWB Holster
The best IWB holster for the Taurus 1911 is the Taurus 1911 Open Top IWB Holster - Lynx. This Taurus 1911 inside waistband holster is crafted from premium materials, ensuring both comfort and durability for everyday concealed carry. Its open-top design allows for quick and easy access, making it ideal for those who prioritize a fast draw.
This Taurus 1911 concealed holster offers excellent concealment while maintaining a slim profile, making it perfect for discreet carry. Its secure belt attachment ensures stability, so the holster stays firmly in place during movement. If you're looking for a high-quality Taurus 1911 IWB holster, the Lynx model is an excellent choice for comfort, access, and concealment.
Best Taurus 1911 OWB Holster
The best OWB holster for the Taurus 1911 is the Taurus 1911 Open Top Holster - Panther. This Taurus 1911 outside waistband holster is crafted from premium leather, providing durability and comfort for daily use. Its open-top design allows for quick and easy access, making it perfect for those who need a fast draw.
This Taurus 1911 belt holster offers a secure and stable fit, ensuring your handgun stays in place during movement. Its contoured design enhances comfort, even during extended wear. If you're looking for a reliable and comfortable Taurus 1911 OWB holster, the Panther model is an excellent choice for both practicality and ease of use.
Best Taurus 1911 Shoulder Holster
The best shoulder holster for the Taurus 1911 is the Taurus 1911 Shoulder Holster Rig - Eagle. This Taurus 1911 shoulder holster is perfect for those who prefer off-the-waist carry with superior comfort and balance. Made from high-quality leather, it ensures durability and comfort even during extended wear.
The holster includes an adjustable harness, allowing for a customized fit and even weight distribution across your shoulders. Its design offers secure retention while providing quick access to your firearm. If you're looking for a reliable and comfortable Taurus 1911 shoulder holster, the Eagle model is an excellent choice for both everyday carry and extended use.
Why Choose Taurus 1911 Over Other Handguns?
Choosing the Taurus 1911 over other handguns offers an affordable yet reliable take on the classic 1911 design. Chambered in .45 ACP with an 8+1 round magazine, it provides robust firepower for target shooting, home defense, or everyday carry.
The all-steel construction ensures durability, while its crisp single-action trigger enhances accuracy, making it ideal for shooters looking for precision. Additionally, the Taurus 1911 delivers excellent value, offering features typically found in higher-end 1911s at a much lower price. For those seeking a balance of performance and affordability, the Taurus 1911 is a compelling option.
How Does Taurus 1911 Differ from Taurus G2c?
The main difference between the Taurus 1911 and the Taurus G2c lies in their size, action, and intended use. The Taurus 1911 is a full-size, single-action .45 ACP pistol designed for precision and power, making it ideal for target shooting and home defense. In contrast, the Taurus G2c is a compact, striker-fired 9mm handgun, optimized for concealed carry due to its smaller size and lighter weight.
While the Taurus 1911 offers superior accuracy and a classic 1911 feel, the G2c provides easier everyday carry and quicker handling, making it more practical for users seeking a compact, budget-friendly option.
How Does Taurus 1911 Differ from SIG 1911?
The main difference between the Taurus 1911 and the SIG 1911 lies in their pricing, build quality, and additional features. The Taurus 1911 is a more budget-friendly option, offering solid performance and reliability at a lower cost. It features a steel frame and simple design, making it accessible to a wider range of shooters.
In contrast, the SIG 1911 typically comes with higher-end materials, such as a stainless steel frame, and enhanced features like night sights and front slide serrations. These upgrades contribute to its higher price, but they also provide improved durability and performance. For those seeking a premium 1911 experience, the SIG 1911 might be the better choice. However, if affordability and reliability are priorities, the Taurus 1911 is a strong contender.
Frequently Asked Questions about Taurus 1911
Now that we've covered all the essential details about the Taurus 1911, let's finish up by addressing some of the most common questions people have about this handgun. This section will help clarify any lingering doubts and provide additional insight into the Taurus 1911's features and capabilities.
Yes, the Taurus 1911 is a good gun, especially for those looking for an affordable yet reliable 1911-style pistol. With its .45 ACP chambering, 8+1 round capacity, and a crisp single-action trigger, it offers excellent accuracy and control. The all-steel construction provides durability, making it suitable for both target shooting and home defense. While heavier than some other handguns, the Taurus 1911 delivers solid performance at a price that's hard to beat.
No, the Taurus 1911 is not good for concealed carry due to its full-size frame and 5-inch barrel. Its all-steel construction adds significant weight, making it more difficult to conceal and less comfortable for daily carry compared to smaller, lighter pistols. While the Taurus 1911 for concealed carry can still be managed with the right holster and carry method, it’s better suited for open carry or home defense.
The Taurus 1911 uses the .45 ACP caliber. This Taurus 1911 caliber is known for its powerful stopping power and is a popular choice for self-defense and target shooting. The .45 ACP round adds to the overall performance of the Taurus 1911, delivering substantial impact with each shot.
The magazine capacity of the Taurus 1911 is 8+1 rounds. This means the pistol holds 8 rounds in the magazine with an additional round in the chamber. The magazine capacity of the Taurus 1911 provides solid firepower for a full-size .45 ACP handgun, making it suitable for self-defense and target shooting.
The Taurus 1911 is a full-size handgun with an overall length of 8.5 inches. The Taurus 1911 barrel length measures 5 inches, contributing to its excellent accuracy. It stands 5.45 inches tall and has a width of 1.5 inches. The Taurus 1911 size makes it ideal for target shooting and home defense, though it may be less suited for concealed carry due to its larger dimensions.
Whether the Taurus 1911 is better than the Colt 1911 depends on your preferences and budget. The Taurus 1911 is a more affordable option, offering solid performance and reliability at a lower price point, making it a great choice for those seeking value. On the other hand, the Colt 1911 is known for its higher-end materials, craftsmanship, and historical reputation, which may appeal to those looking for a premium 1911 experience. If cost is a major factor, the Taurus 1911 is better for budget-conscious shooters. However, if you're seeking a top-tier 1911, the Colt might be the better option.
No, the Taurus 1911 will not fit properly in a SIG 1911 holster. While both guns are based on the 1911 platform, their dimensions and design features can vary enough to cause an improper fit. For optimal safety, retention, and comfort, it’s always best to use a holster specifically made for each model. A SIG 1911 holster is tailored to the exact size and shape of the SIG, so using it for a Taurus 1911 could compromise the holster’s effectiveness. Always choose a holster designed for your specific handgun model to ensure proper performance.
Conclusion: Is Taurus 1911 Worth It?
The Taurus 1911 is definitely worth considering, especially for those seeking a reliable full-size 1911 at an affordable price. What I appreciate most about the Taurus 1911 is how it combines solid specifications, performance, and price. With its .45 ACP chambering, 8+1 magazine capacity, and crisp single-action trigger, it delivers excellent accuracy and power, making it ideal for both target shooting and home defense.
This pistol is a great choice for shooters who want the classic 1911 experience without breaking the bank. Personally, I'd recommend it to anyone looking for a balance of performance and affordability. I’d also strongly suggest pairing it with a quality Taurus 1911 holster to enhance comfort and accessibility, making it an even better option for everyday use.
