The M1911 was found to have a tendency to shoot low, so a curved mainspring housing was introduced to raise the natural pointing position of the pistol. Though the M1911 was generally popular, there were a few niggling issues. Changes to the M1911 came about following experience of using the original pistol in action.

However, I do want to talk briefly here about the differences between the original M1911 and the modified M1911A1 introduced in 1924 as that has some relevance to this review. I have already covered the background to the Colt 1911 in an article about the handgun designs of John Moses Browning (you’ll find a link to that article at the end of this one). Can you spot the other six differences? Answers at the bottom of this article (and in the paragraph below). One change (the M1911A1 has a wider foresight) isn’t really evident in photos. How good is your knowledge of the Colt 1911? Other than finish, there are seven physical differences between the original M1911and the later M1911A1. Both were fine target shooters but the fit and finish on the Centenary Edition was simply outstanding and way ahead of most other replicas I have owned.Ĭolt 1911 spot-the difference. I have owned two Umarex Colt 1911s – an early nickel finish model and a later glossy black Centenary Edition. Mechanically it’s very similar to other Umarex pellet shooting replicas such as the Walther CP88 but it also happens to be one of my all-time favourite replicas, so, don’t expect a completely unbiased review here!

The Colt Government 1911 A1 is a pellet shooting replica air pistol from German manufacturer Umarex.

Colt 1911 a1