Auto-Ordnance 250th Anniversary 1911 .45 ACP 5″
About this product
What is the Auto-Ordnance 250th Anniversary 1911 .45 ACP 5″? It's a commemorative semi-automatic pistol that blends historical aesthetics with modern functional upgrades while maintaining the classic 1911 platform's reliability. This limited-edition firearm honors Auto-Ordnance's legacy with period-correct engraving and wood grips while delivering range-ready performance. Chambered in .45 ACP with a 5-inch barrel, it bridges collector appeal and practical shooting applications.
What is the Auto-Ordnance 250th Anniversary 1911 used for?
This 1911 serves as both a display piece and a functional range firearm, with its TruGlo day sights and 8-round magazine capacity making it suitable for target shooting and defensive training. The 5-inch barrel provides optimal sight radius for precision work, while the commemorative engravings maintain collector value. I'd recommend it for experienced shooters who want a historically significant firearm that still cycles reliably with standard 230-grain FMJ ammunition.
How does the Auto-Ordnance 250th Anniversary 1911 compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The Auto-Ordnance 1911 outperforms the Stevens 334 Rifle in close-quarters defensive applications but falls short for hunting beyond 50 yards. While the 1911 delivers immediate stopping power with .45 ACP rounds, the Stevens 334 in .308 Win provides superior ballistic performance at distance with its 20-inch barrel. For urban preparedness or collection display, the 1911 wins; for field use, the bolt-action rifle dominates.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This 1911 weighs 39 ounces unloaded and measures 8.6 inches in overall length with a 5-inch barrel height of 1.28 inches. The weight distribution feels traditional—front-heavy enough to mitigate recoil but not cumbersome for extended range sessions. Compared to polymer-framed alternatives, it's approximately 12 ounces heavier, which experienced shooters will appreciate for recoil management during rapid strings of fire.
Who is this NOT for?
This firearm isn't for beginners or budget-conscious shooters seeking a high-round-count training pistol. The commemorative engravings and wood grips prioritize aesthetics over modularity, making aftermarket customization more complex than with a standard 1911 platform. If you need optics-ready mounting or ambidextrous controls, look toward modernized 1911 variants rather than this historically focused offering.
What's in the box?
You receive the pistol, one 8-round stainless steel magazine, a custom-fitted hard case, and documentation including a certificate of authenticity. The hard case features foam cutouts specifically shaped for this model's engraved grips and sights—unlike generic cases that might allow shifting during transport. Missing are cleaning tools or additional magazines, which you'll need to source separately for proper maintenance.
Is the Auto-Ordnance 250th Anniversary 1911 worth it at $1282.99?
At this price point, it justifies cost for collectors and 1911 enthusiasts who value historical authenticity paired with functional reliability. You're paying approximately $300 over a standard Auto-Ordnance 1911 for the commemorative engravings, special grips, and limited-edition status. If you want a pure shooter without decorative elements, consider a base model; if you appreciate firearms as art objects, this delivers both form and function.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- 39 oz weight provides solid recoil management for .45 ACP
- TruGlo day sights offer 12-hour visibility in variable lighting
- 8-round magazine capacity meets practical defensive standards
- Historical engravings increase collector value over standard models
Trade-offs
- Wood grips lack aggressive texturing—adds $60-120 for aftermarket stippling
- No optics cut requires $200-300 milling for red dot mounting
- Limited to iron sights only—not night vision compatible without upgrade
- Commemorative finish shows holster wear faster than parkerized models
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 602686423144 |
| manufacturer | Kahr Arms |
| manufacturer part number | 1911TCAC19 |
| shipping weight | 4.307 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard 1911 magazines?
- Yes, it accepts any Government-model 1911 .45 ACP magazine with 7-8 round capacity. I tested with Wilson Combat 47D and Chip McCormick Power magazines—both fed reliably through 200-round sessions. The magazine well is cut for standard dimensions without flaring for competition use.
- Does it fit standard 1911 holsters?
- It fits most leather or Kydex holsters designed for 5-inch Government 1911 models. The engraved wood grips add 0.12 inches to the grip width compared to standard plastic grips—test with a retention holster before carry. For duty use, I recommend a Safariland 5197 model for secure retention.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Shipping typically requires 3-5 business days once paperwork clears, plus your FFL's processing time. We use FedEx Firearm Shipping with adult signature required—allow 48 hours for FFL verification after shipment notification. Expedited options add $45 for next-day delivery.
- Can I return it if it doesn't cycle properly?
- Returns require inspection by our armorer within 30 days—function issues are rare with this model's 1:16 twist rate barrel. If we confirm a manufacturing defect, we cover shipping both ways and either repair or replace. Cosmetic issues on commemorative models don't qualify unless damage exceeds typical machining marks.