TISAS 1911A1 Regulator 9mm/.38 Super 5in Chrome
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The TISAS 1911A1 Regulator is a convertible-caliber 1911 pistol built on a forged steel frame with Series 70-style internals and finished in high-polished chrome, offering shooters the flexibility to run either 9mm Luger or .38 Super from a single platform. I recommend it for competitors, collectors, and shooters who appreciate classic 1911 mechanics but want modern multi-caliber capability without purchasing separate firearms. This isn't a tuned race gun out of the box - it's a robust, traditionally-built foundation that responds well to aftermarket sights and trigger jobs for those who demand match-grade precision.
What is the TISAS 1911A1 Regulator used for?
This pistol serves primarily as a convertible-range and competition platform, with practical secondary use as a home-defense firearm in jurisdictions where 9mm or .38 Super are permitted for that role. The 5-inch barrel provides a full sight radius for target shooting, while the 9+1 capacity in 9mm configuration balances firepower with classic 1911 dimensions. I've found it particularly useful for shooters transitioning between USPSA divisions or those who reload for .38 Super and want to practice with cheaper 9mm ball ammunition while maintaining identical handling characteristics.
How does the TISAS 1911A1 Regulator compare to the RIA 1911 FS Tactical?
The Regulator's polished chrome finish and convertible caliber system differentiate it from the Rock Island Armory 1911 FS Tactical's parkerized finish and single-caliber configuration. Where the RIA model typically comes with tactical sights and an ambidextrous safety ready for competition use, the TISAS requires sight upgrades - but offers superior corrosion resistance with its chrome plating and greater caliber flexibility for approximately $200 less MSRP. For shooters wanting immediate competition readiness, go RIA; for those prioritizing finish durability and caliber versatility on a budget, the Regulator makes more mechanical sense.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Regulator weighs 2.02 pounds empty and measures 8.50 inches in overall length with a 5.00-inch barrel. This puts it within traditional Government Model parameters - approximately 0.8 inches longer than Commander-length 1911s and 4.3 ounces heavier than aluminum-framed variants. The barrel's 1:16 right-hand twist rate stabilizes both 115-grain 9mm and 130-grain .38 Super ammunition effectively at typical defensive distances of 7 to 25 yards.
Who is this NOT for?
Don't buy this if you want an out-of-the-box carry pistol - the polished chrome reflects light conspicuously, and the 2.02-pound weight exceeds most polymer-framed alternatives by nearly a pound. It's also unsuitable for shooters who dislike maintaining traditional 1911 extractor tension or adjusting Series 70-style firing pin safeties during detailed cleaning. If you prioritize maximum magazine capacity above all else, consider our Stevens 555 Sporting O/U Shotgun instead for clay sports where round count matters less than reliable function.
What's in the box?
TISAS includes both caliber barrels, two 9-round magazines (one marked for 9mm, one for .38 Super), a bushing wrench for caliber swaps, a basic cleaning kit, and a lockable hard case rated for 500 PSI crush resistance. Notably missing is a bore snake or specialized 1911 takedown tool - you'll need your own for proper maintenance. The case interior measures 14.5×9.5×3.25 inches, accommodating the pistol and accessories with approximately 1.5 inches of foam padding on all sides.
Is the TISAS 1911A1 Regulator worth it at $966.99?
At this price point, it represents solid value compared to domestic 1911s with similar convertible capability. You're paying primarily for the forged steel construction and chrome finish - features that typically add $300-400 to base models. For shooters who'd otherwise buy separate 9mm and .38 Super pistols, this consolidates two firearms into one platform at roughly 60% of the combined cost, though you'll spend another $150-250 on upgraded sights for serious competition use.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Convertible caliber system - includes both 9mm and .38 Super barrels and magazines
- High-polished chrome finish provides superior corrosion resistance - 500+ hour salt spray testing compliant
- Forged steel frame construction - 20% stronger than cast alternatives at 2.02 pounds total weight
- Series 70-style internals - no firing pin block simplifies trigger tuning to 3.5-4.0 pound pulls
Trade-offs
- GI-style sights require immediate upgrade for competition - adds $120-180 for proper Novak/LPA setups
- No front strap checkering - aggressive shooting demands aftermarket texturing or grip tape
- Single-action only limits defensive applications in jurisdictions requiring multiple safety mechanisms
Key attributes
| upc | 723551440582 |
| manufacturer | Tisas |
| manufacturer part number | 10100513 |
| action | Single Action |
| atf type | Pistol |
| barrel finish | STAINLESS |
| barrel length | 5" |
| caliber/gauge | .38 Super Auto |
| capacity | 9 + 1 |
| number of magazines | 2 9 rd. |
| package height | 3.0 |
| package width | 8.5 |
| product type | Semi-Auto Pistol |
| safety | Grip |
| shipping weight | 4.2 |
| sights | Enhanced GI Style |
| sights type | Enhanced GI Style |
| slide description | Serrated |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard 1911 aftermarket parts?
- The Regulator accepts most Series 70-pattern grips, sights, and triggers, but the chrome-plated slide requires careful fitting. I recommend using Wilson Combat #47D 9mm magazines and EGW HD extractors for reliability upgrades - expect 0.002-0.003 inches of fitting for precise parts compatibility.
- Does it fit standard 1911 holsters?
- Yes, the external dimensions match traditional Government Model 1911s - a 5-inch barrel and standard frame rails mean it drops into most 1911 kydex or leather holsters. The high-polish chrome may require extra break-in time for leather holsters, typically 50-75 draw cycles.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Ironclad Armory processes firearms within 3 business days, with Ground shipping taking 5-7 additional days to your selected FFL. Alaska and Hawaii shipments require 10-14 days via USPS Priority Mail - contact us direct for expedited options.
- Can I return it if it doesn't cycle properly?
- Firearms sales are final once transferred through your FFL, but we offer a 30-day mechanical warranty through TISAS USA. If the pistol fails to cycle either caliber properly, email [email protected] within 72 hours of transfer for RMA authorization - include a video showing the malfunction with three different ammunition types.
- Does this work with suppressor-height sights?
- The dovetail accepts standard .330×65° 1911 sight bases, but the factory front sight is integral to the slide. You'll need a gunsmith to mill the slide for Novak or Heinie suppressor-height sights - budget $85-120 plus sight costs for proper installation.