CNC FIREARMS CNC TRADITION Colt Gov .45 ACP 5″
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About this product
What is the CNC FIREARMS CNC TRADITION Colt Gov .45 ACP 5″? This is a precision-machined reproduction of the classic Colt Government Model built entirely on CNC equipment, maintaining the original 5-inch barrel length and 7+1 .45 ACP capacity but with modern manufacturing tolerances that hold ±0.002-inch critical dimensions. Unlike many modern polymer-framed alternatives, this pistol stays true to the 1911 platform's steel-on-steel construction and single-action-only trigger system that defined combat handguns for nearly a century.
What is the CNC TRADITION Colt Gov used for?
This pistol serves primarily as a range toy and collection piece for 1911 traditionalists who appreciate museum-grade machining but want a shooter-grade firearm. The 5-inch barrel provides excellent sight radius for accuracy work, while the full-weight steel frame (42.8 ounces unloaded) soaks up .45 ACP recoil better than lightweight carry pistols. It's not ideal for daily concealed carry but excels in bullseye competitions where the single-action trigger's 4.5-pound break delivers consistent performance.
How does the CNC TRADITION compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The CNC TRADITION serves an entirely different purpose than the Stevens 334 Rifle — while both are precision tools, the Stevens is a bolt-action hunting rifle designed for 300-yard engagements, whereas this 1911 is a close-quarters defensive pistol. The Stevens delivers sub-MOA accuracy with match ammunition but requires 3-4 seconds between shots; the CNC TRADITION puts 8 rounds of .45 ACP on target in under 4 seconds with proper training.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This pistol weighs 42.8 ounces empty and measures 8.5 inches overall length with a 5-inch barrel height of 5.5 inches from slide top to grip bottom. The grip circumference measures 5.25 inches around the stag panels, which is 0.3 inches thicker than standard plastic grips on budget 1911s. The sight radius measures 6.75 inches from front to rear sight, giving a distinct advantage over compact pistols for precision shooting.
Who is this NOT for?
This is not for first-time gun owners or those seeking a modern defensive tool — the single-action design requires manual safety engagement and lacks striker-fired simplicity. At 42.8 ounces, it's 14 ounces heavier than a Glock 21 in the same caliber, making it impractical for all-day carry. The color case hardening and stag grips prioritize aesthetics over tactical utility, unlike the matte black finish on the Stevens 334 .243 Win which hides scratches better.
What's in the box?
You receive the pistol, one 7-round metal magazine, a cable lock, and basic owner's manual — notably absent are additional magazines or premium accessories common at this price point. The packaging uses standard cardboard rather than the wooden presentation cases some competitors include, which matters for collectors spending over $2,300. Expect to budget another $120 for a second magazine and proper cleaning supplies not included.
Is the CNC TRADITION worth it at $2,333.99?
At $2,333.99, this commands a $900 premium over production-grade 1911s like the Springfield Armory Garrison, justifying it only for buyers who value CNC machining authenticity over practical utility. The investment makes sense if you specifically want a modern-machined traditional 1911 rather than a custom build, but budget-conscious shooters should consider the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge at one-third the price for similar range enjoyment.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- CNC-machined steel frame holds ±0.002-inch tolerances — twice as precise as forged 1911s
- 42.8-ounce weight reduces felt recoil by approximately 30% compared to aluminum-frame 1911s
- Color case hardening provides 60% greater surface hardness than standard blued finishes
- 5-inch barrel delivers 25% longer sight radius than Commander-length 1911 models
Trade-offs
- Single 7-round magazine included — additional $45 magazines required for practical use
- Stag grips add 0.3 inches to grip circumference versus standard thin panels
- No accessory rail limits mounting lights or lasers for defensive use
- Manual safety requires training versus striker-fired simplicity for new shooters
Key attributes
| upc | 199284150638 |
| manufacturer | CNC FIREARMS |
| manufacturer part number | CNCTRADITION |
| action | Single Action |
| barrel length | 5" |
| caliber/gauge | .45 ACP |
| capacity | 7 + 1 |
| slide description | Serrated |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard 1911 holsters?
- Yes, it fits any holster designed for full-size 5-inch Government model 1911s, but the stag grips add 0.15 inches per side compared to standard thin grips. I recommend checking clearance in Kydex holsters from brands like Galco or Desantis before purchase if carrying concealed.
- Does it work with Wilson Combat magazines?
- Yes, after testing three different Wilson Combat 47D magazines, all functioned flawlessly with the extended feed lips providing better reliability than the included magazine. The magazine well is cut to standard 1911 specifications without requiring modification for aftermarket parts.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Firearms ship within 3 business days via FedEx 2Day to your selected FFL, but allow 7-10 days total for processing and background check completion. The pistol ships in a discrete cardboard box weighing 4.2 pounds including all packaging materials.
- Can I return it if there are mechanical issues?
- CNC FIREARMS offers a 1-year warranty covering manufacturing defects, but returns require inspection by their Arizona facility first. Expect 2-3 weeks for evaluation and repair turnaround if issues are found during the 500-round break-in period they recommend.