S&W SW1911 E-Series .45 ACP 5-inch Stainless Wood Grips
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About this product
What is the S&W SW1911 E-Series .45 ACP 5-inch Stainless Wood Grips? It's a full-size 1911-pattern pistol chambered in .45 ACP with modern reliability enhancements built into a stainless steel frame and slide. This model maintains the classic 1911 ergonomics while incorporating targeted upgrades for improved function and durability, making it suitable for both range use and collection.
What is the S&W SW1911 E-Series used for?
The SW1911 E-Series is designed for range shooting, competition, and as a collector's piece, balancing traditional aesthetics with modern reliability. Its 5-inch barrel provides stable sighting for precision work, while the stainless construction handles frequent use without significant wear. The enhanced extractor and ejection port ensure consistent cycling with various .45 ACP loads.
How does the S&W SW1911 E-Series compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The SW1911 E-Series is better for close-range defensive or target shooting, while the Stevens 334 Rifle excels at longer-range hunting applications. The pistol offers quicker handling with its 8.7-inch overall length versus the rifle's 40-inch total, but the Stevens provides greater accuracy beyond 100 yards due to its 20-inch barrel and .308 Winchester chambering.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The unloaded weight is 39.8 ounces, with an overall length of 8.7 inches and a 5-inch barrel. This weight distribution aids in recoil management during rapid strings of fire, while the full-size frame accommodates most hand sizes comfortably. The stainless construction adds durability but contributes to the heft compared to alloy-framed alternatives.
Who is this NOT for?
This pistol is not ideal for concealed carry due to its 39.8-ounce weight and 8.7-inch length, which exceeds typical compact dimensions. Shooters seeking lightweight options or those prioritizing high magazine capacity over traditional single-stack design should consider polymer-framed models. Beginners may find the 1911 manual safety and grip safety combination challenging under stress.
What's in the box?
The package includes two 8-round stainless steel magazines, a cable lock, and owner's documentation. Smith & Wesson provides all necessary components for immediate range use without additional purchases. The magazines feature anti-tilt followers for reliable feeding, a critical detail often overlooked in budget 1911 offerings.
Is the S&W SW1911 E-Series worth it at $1114.99?
At $1114.99, it represents solid value for a stainless 1911 with factory enhancements like the titanium firing pin and oversized extractor. Compared to custom builds costing $2000+, it delivers 85% of the performance for 55% of the price, though it lacks hand-fitting and premium finish options. For shooters wanting a reliable out-of-the-box 1911 without gunsmithing, it justifies its cost, unlike the more specialized Stevens 555 Sporting O/U shotgun.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Stainless steel construction — 39.8 oz weight reduces felt recoil by 20% compared to alloy frames
- Titanium firing pin — 40% lighter than steel for faster lock time
- Includes two 8-round magazines — $60 value over single-magazine competitors
- Lowered ejection port — clears brass consistently at 3 o'clock position
Trade-offs
- No front strap checkering — requires $75-125 gunsmithing for positive grip
- Satin finish shows holster wear faster than matte alternatives
- 8-round capacity limits tactical applications versus modern double-stacks
- Wood grips lack aggressive texture — may require replacement for wet conditions
Key attributes
| upc | 022188084825 |
| manufacturer | Smith & Wesson / S&W |
| manufacturer part number | 108482 |
| action | Single Action |
| atf type | Pistol |
| barrel length | 5'' |
| caliber/gauge | .45 ACP |
| capacity | 8+1 |
| color | Silver |
| length | 8.7'' |
| magazine included | 2 x 8-Round |
| model | SW1911 |
| number of magazines | 2 |
| package height | 3.0 |
| package width | 8.4 |
| product type | 1911 |
| safety | Manual |
| shipping weight | 3.9 |
| sights | 3-Dot |
| sights type | 3-Dot White |
| slide description | Serrated |
| state restriction (guam) | NO SALE TO GUAM |
| state restriction (pr) | NO SALE TO PUERTO RICO |
| state restriction (vi) | NO SALE TO VIRGIN ISLANDS |
| units per box | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard 1911 holsters?
- Yes, it fits most full-size 1911 holsters due to its 8.7-inch length and standard frame dimensions. However, some tight-fitting competition holsters may require break-in due to the satin stainless finish. Check with specific manufacturers like Safariland or Blade-Tech for confirmed compatibility.
- Does it work with aftermarket 1911 grips?
- Yes, it accepts standard 1911 grip panels with standard screw spacing. The factory wood laminates are 0.25 inches thick, matching most commercial offerings. Note that some ultra-thin grips may expose the grip screw bushings if thinner than 0.18 inches.
- How long does shipping take?
- Shipping typically requires 3-5 business days for processing plus transit time via FedEx or UPS. All firearms ship to your selected FFL dealer, who must receive within 7 days of shipment. Contact Ironclad Armory for expedited options at additional cost.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my hand?
- Returns are accepted within 30 days for un-fired firearms in original packaging, subject to a 15% restocking fee. Since grip fit is subjective, we recommend handling a similar model at a local range first. Exchanges for different models like the <a href="/products/stevens-334-243win-20-3rd-black/">Stevens 334 .243 Win</a> may avoid return fees.