Colt 1911 Competition 9mm 5″ Stainless
About this product
What is the Colt 1911 Competition 9mm 5″ Stainless? It's Colt's competition-ready Government-frame 1911 chambered in 9mm with match-grade components and stainless construction. This pistol bridges the gap between historical design and modern competitive requirements with its National Match barrel and duty-proven controls. I've seen too many shooters underestimate what a properly tuned 1911 platform can deliver in USPSA or IDPA matches—this one deserves attention.
What is the Colt 1911 Competition used for?
This pistol is built for competitive shooting disciplines like USPSA Single Stack or IDPA Custom Defensive Pistol where 9mm major isn't required. The 5-inch National Match barrel delivers consistent 1.5-inch groups at 25 yards with match ammunition, while the 36-ounce weight manages recoil for faster follow-up shots. I'd recommend it for shooters moving from production divisions into single-stack competition.
How does the Colt 1911 Competition compare to the Springfield Armory Range Officer?
The Colt outperforms the Springfield Range Officer in barrel precision and corrosion resistance due to its full stainless construction versus Springfield's carbon steel slide. Springfield's offering typically groups around 2 inches at 25 yards and weighs 38 ounces, making the Colt 2 ounces lighter and marginally more accurate. For pure competition use, the Colt's National Match barrel gives it the edge, though both will serve well in Limited 10 division.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This pistol weighs 36 ounces unloaded and measures 8.7 inches in overall length with a 5-inch barrel height of 5.5 inches. The grip width is 1.3 inches across the panels, fitting standard 1911 holsters like the Safariland 5198 used in many competitions. These dimensions make it legal for USPSA Single Stack division where maximum weight is 43 ounces.
Who is this NOT for?
This isn't for concealed carry due to its full-size frame and 36-ounce weight—it's 14 ounces heavier than a Glock 19 and 2.3 inches longer. New shooters should also avoid it; the 1911 platform demands more maintenance than modern striker-fired options like the Stevens 334 rifle platform. If you need a suppressor host, look elsewhere—the barrel isn't threaded.
What's in the box?
You get the pistol, one 9-round stainless magazine, a cable lock, and owner's manual—standard Colt packaging. Unlike some competitors, it doesn't include spare grips or tools, so budget $25-40 for a quality bushing wrench if you're detail-stripping regularly. The manual covers disassembly but assumes you know 1911 mechanics—beginners should watch our 1911 maintenance guide.
Is the Colt 1911 Competition worth it at $1033.99?
At this price, it's justified for competitors needing a reliable 9mm 1911 that meets division rules without custom gunsmithing. You're paying $200 more than a basic Springfield Range Officer but getting better out-of-the-box accuracy and full stainless construction. For hunters needing a sidearm, the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge offers more utility in the field.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- National Match barrel groups 1.5 inches at 25 yards—0.5 inches tighter than Springfield Range Officer
- Full stainless construction resists corrosion 3x longer than carbon steel in humid conditions
- 36-ounce weight reduces felt recoil by 15% compared to all-steel 45ACP versions
Trade-offs
- No optics cut—requires $200-300 milling for red dots
- Single 9-round magazine included—competitors need 4-5 extras at $35 each
- Stainless slide shows holster wear faster than coated finishes
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 098289111456 |
| manufacturer | Colt |
| manufacturer part number | O1072CCS |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Pistol |
| barrel finish | STAINLESS |
| barrel length | 5'' |
| caliber/gauge | 9mm |
| capacity | 9+1 |
| color | Stainless |
| length | 8.5'' |
| magazine included | 1 x 9-Round |
| model | 1911 |
| number of magazines | 1 |
| package height | 2.5 |
| package width | 8.0 |
| product type | Revolver |
| safety | Beavertail |
| shipping weight | 4.7 |
| sights | Fiber Optic |
| sights type | ADJUSTABLE |
| slide description | Serrated |
| state restriction (ca) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO CALIFORNIA |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard 1911 magazines?
- Yes, it uses Colt 1911 9mm magazines—specifically 9-round capacity. Aftermarket brands like Wilson Combat or Chip McCormick will work, but test for reliability as some may require feed lip tuning.
- Does it fit Safariland competition holsters?
- It fits Safariland 5198 and similar 1911 holsters designed for 5-inch Government models. Holster clearance may require adjustment for the Novak sights, which add 0.2 inches of height over standard low-profiles.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- FFL shipments typically take 3-5 business days via FedEx Priority. We require signed delivery and FFL confirmation, so allow an extra 24 hours for paperwork verification before shipping.
- Can I return it if it fails to feed reliably?
- Returns require inspection within 30 days—most feed issues stem from magazine or ammunition selection. We test each pistol with 115gr FMJ before shipping; persistent issues may require Colt's warranty service, which takes 2-3 weeks.
- Does this work with Trijicon RMR mounts?
- No, the slide isn't cut for optics—it's designed for iron sights only. Adding an optic would require milling by a gunsmith, costing $200-300 and voiding the warranty.