Auto-Ordnance 1911 Army 250th .45 ACP 5″ 7rd
About this product
The Auto-Ordnance 1911 Army 250th is a commemorative, full-sized .45 ACP pistol built on the classic M1911A1 platform. It features a 5-inch stainless steel barrel, a two-tone OD Green and Coyote Tan Cerakote finish, and custom laser-engraved hardwood grip panels honoring the United States Army's 250th anniversary. This is a factory-built presentation piece for the collector or enthusiast who values military heritage in a functional, single-action 1911 configuration.
What is the Auto-Ordnance 1911 Army 250th used for?
This pistol is primarily a commemorative display piece and range firearm, not a duty or carry gun. Its 39-ounce steel frame and meticulous two-tone Cerakote finish (OD Green slide, Coyote Tan frame) demand careful handling to preserve its appearance. It’s ideal for ceremonial presentations, controlled-range shooting, and collectors who appreciate the historical significance of the 1911 platform paired with specific Army iconography.
How does the Auto-Ordnance 1911 Army 250th compare to the Stevens 334 .308 Win?
The Auto-Ordnance is a collectible handgun, while the Stevens 334 rifle is a purely utilitarian, budget-priced hunting platform. The 1911 commemorates military service with laser engraving and specialized finishes, costing $1,117.99 for its ceremonial value; the Stevens 334 Rifle in .308 Win is a $400-$500 tool built for putting meat in the freezer or punching paper at distance, with no commemorative elements. For historical presentation, the Auto-Ordnance is superior; for raw utility per dollar, the Stevens wins.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The pistol weighs 39 ounces (2.44 pounds) unloaded and measures 8.6 inches in overall length with a 5-inch barrel. The slide width is a standard 1911 dimension of approximately 1.3 inches, and the grip circumference will be familiar to anyone who has handled a Government Model. These dimensions and the all-steel construction contribute to the 1911's classic, stable shooting feel but make it substantially heavier than modern polymer-frame duty pistols.
Who is this NOT for?
This is not for a first-time gun buyer, a concealed carry permit holder, or someone seeking a low-maintenance, high-round-count training pistol. The single-action-only operation and manual grip safety require specific training, the Cerakote finish shows holster wear quickly, and it ships with only one 7-round magazine. If your priority is budget, high capacity, or rugged daily use, look at a modern striker-fired platform.
What's in the box?
You receive the pistol, one standard 7-round metal magazine, a cable lock, and the factory documentation. Do not expect a case worthy of the commemorative theme; it's typically a standard cardboard or plastic container. The contrasting black controls (safety, slide stop) are installed, and the custom hardwood grips with their 250th-anniversary laser engraving are fitted to the frame.
Is the Auto-Ordnance 1911 Army 250th worth it at $1,117.99?
At this price, you are paying a significant premium for the commemorative Cerakote work and laser-engraved grips over a standard blued 1911. The value is entirely in its presentation as a collectible honoring Army history. As a pure shooting instrument, a basic Stevens 334 rifle and a thousand rounds of ammunition cost less. It's worth it only if you specifically want this anniversary edition for display or as a heritage range piece.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 39 oz (2.44 lbs) — provides the classic, stable heft of an all-steel 1911 platform.
- 5-inch stainless steel barrel — resists corrosion better than carbon steel for long-term storage as a display piece.
- Distinctive two-tone Cerakote (OD Green/Coyote Tan) — offers superior corrosion resistance over bluing and a unique commemorative appearance.
- Custom laser-engraved hardwood grips — directly tie the pistol to the Army's 250th-anniversary theme, a factory-finished detail.
Trade-offs
- Ships with only one 7-round magazine — purchasing additional quality magazines adds $30-$50 minimum to the true cost.
- Cerakote finish is prone to holster wear — not suitable for regular carry without accepting significant cosmetic degradation.
- Single-action-only operation with manual safety — requires specific training and handling discipline compared to modern striker-fired pistols.
- Commemorative pricing premium — at $1,117.99, you pay notably more for the finish and engraving than for mechanical upgrades.
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 602686422987 |
| manufacturer | Kahr Arms |
| manufacturer part number | 1911BKOC15 |
| action | Single Action |
| atf type | Pistol |
| barrel finish | STAINLESS |
| barrel length | 5" |
| caliber/gauge | .45 ACP |
| capacity | 7 + 1 |
| color | GREEN |
| length | 14.4000 |
| model | 1911 |
| number of magazines | 1 7 rd. |
| package height | 2.9 |
| package width | 7.9 |
| product type | Semi-Auto Pistol |
| safety | Firing Pin/Grip/Thumb |
| shipping weight | 3.35 |
| sights | Blade Front, Rear Drift Adj. |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
| slide description | Serrated |
| state restriction (ca) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO CALIFORNIA |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard 1911 magazines?
- Yes. The Auto-Ordnance 1911 Army 250th uses standard M1911A1-spec .45 ACP magazines with a 7-round capacity. Aftermarket magazines from brands like Wilson Combat or Chip McCormick will generally function, but test for reliability with your specific ammunition. The pistol ships with one 7-round magazine.
- Does it fit in a standard 1911 holster?
- Yes, the external dimensions conform to the classic Government Model 1911 profile. Any holster designed for a 5-inch barrel 1911 with a full-length guide rod will accommodate it. Be advised that the two-tone Cerakote finish is more susceptible to wear from kydex or leather than a standard Parkerized or blued finish.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- Processing time is typically 1-3 business days. Once shipped, transit time depends on your location and carrier, generally 2-7 business days for ground service. The firearm must be shipped to a licensed dealer (FFL holder) of your choice for the mandatory federal background check and transfer.
- Can I return it if I don't like it?
- Firearm returns are strictly governed by federal law and are typically only accepted for manufacturer defects, not buyer's remorse. You must contact customer service within 3 days of receiving the firearm at your FFL to initiate a return authorization. All returns require an RMA and must be shipped back through an FFL.
- Does this work with a .45 ACP suppressor?
- Potentially, but not without modification. The barrel is not threaded from the factory. You would need to purchase and fit a threaded 1911 barrel (typically ½x28 TPI for .45) and possibly a taller front sight to clear a suppressor's diameter. This will void any finish warranty and cost an additional $150-$300 plus gunsmithing.