The SDS Imports 1911 Devil Ray Carry .45 ACP: Your Ultimate Concealed Carry Companion

For discerning firearm enthusiasts and responsible citizens seeking a potent yet remarkably concealable pistol, the SDS Imports 1911 Devil Ray Carry in .45 ACP stands as a premier choice. This exceptional handgun, a testament to Tisas's commitment to quality and value, masterfully blends the revered 1911 platform with modern enhancements for an unparalleled carrying experience. Whether you're a seasoned concealed carrier looking to upgrade, a new permit holder seeking a reliable self-defense tool, or a 1911 aficionado desiring a compact yet powerful addition to your collection, the Devil Ray Carry is engineered to meet your rigorous demands.

This detailed guide will explore every facet of the SDS Imports 1911 Devil Ray Carry, addressing common questions like: "What is the best 1911 for concealed carry?", "How does a bobtail frame improve concealment?", "What are the benefits of a .45 ACP for self-defense?", and "Where can I find a high-quality, durable 1911 handgun?" We delve into its robust construction, innovative design features, and practical applications, making it clear why this pistol is a compelling option for those prioritizing performance, comfort, and discreet carry.

Engineered for Excellence: Unpacking the Devil Ray Carry's Core Design

At the heart of the SDS Imports 1911 Devil Ray Carry is a foundation of robust, high-quality materials and precision manufacturing. This isn't just another 1911; it's a meticulously crafted firearm designed for consistent performance and enduring reliability.

Forged Steel Construction: The Backbone of Durability

The Devil Ray Carry distinguishes itself with its use of 4140 hammer-forged steel for both the slide and frame. This is a critical distinction that speaks volumes about the pistol's longevity and ruggedness. Unlike cast components often found in lesser firearms, hammer-forged steel undergoes a process that refines the grain structure of the metal, resulting in superior strength, ductility, and resistance to wear and tear. This means your Devil Ray Carry is built to withstand countless rounds, resist deformation, and maintain its structural integrity over a lifetime of use. For anyone asking, "What makes a 1911 durable?", the answer often starts with forged steel, and the Devil Ray Carry delivers on this promise.

The Signature Ed Brown Bobtail Frame: Mastering Concealment

One of the most defining and practical features of the Devil Ray Carry is its Ed Brown Bobtail frame cut. This innovative modification to the traditional 1911 grip frame is specifically engineered to address the common challenge of "printing" – where the butt of the handgun creates an identifiable bulge under clothing. By rounding off and shortening the sharp corner of the mainspring housing at the bottom rear of the grip, the Bobtail design significantly minimizes the firearm's profile.

Why is this so effective? When carrying concealed, especially in the appendix (AIWB) or strong-side hip positions, the sharp angle of a standard 1911 grip can press against clothing, making it obvious you're carrying. The Bobtail's gentler contour allows the grip to sit closer to the body, reducing this tell-tale outline and enhancing comfort for extended wear. This feature makes the Devil Ray Carry an exceptional choice for those who prioritize discreet carry without sacrificing the power and reliability of the .45 ACP cartridge. It’s a direct answer to the question, "How can I conceal a 1911 more effectively?"

Caliber and Capacity: Potent Power in a Compact Package

Chambered in .45 ACP (Automatic Colt Pistol), the Devil Ray Carry harnesses a cartridge renowned for its stopping power and proven effectiveness in self-defense scenarios. The .45 ACP's larger bullet diameter and heavier mass deliver substantial energy upon impact, making it a formidable choice for personal protection. Despite its compact "Carry" frame size, this pistol boasts an impressive 8+1 capacity (8 rounds in the magazine plus one in the chamber), providing ample firepower for defensive situations. This balance of potent caliber and respectable capacity in a concealable platform makes it an ideal self-defense handgun.

Visual Appeal and Enhanced Protection: The Cerakote Finish

The SDS Imports 1911 Devil Ray Carry features a striking and highly durable Black Cerakote finish on both its serrated steel slide and steel frame. Cerakote is a polymer-ceramic composite coating known for its exceptional properties:

• Corrosion Resistance: It provides an excellent barrier against rust, moisture, and harsh environmental elements, crucial for a firearm that might be exposed to sweat during concealed carry.
• Abrasion Resistance: Cerakote is incredibly tough, resisting scratches, chips, and scuffs that can occur from daily use, holstering, and range sessions. This ensures your pistol maintains its aesthetic appeal over time.
• Chemical Resistance: It protects against common gun cleaning solvents and other chemicals, simplifying maintenance.
• Low Friction: The slick surface of Cerakote can contribute to smoother operation of the slide.

The uniform black Cerakote finish not only gives the Devil Ray Carry a sleek, tactical appearance but also serves as a robust protective layer, ensuring your investment remains in pristine condition for years to come.

Ergonomics and Control: Designed for the Shooter

Beyond its core construction and finish, the Devil Ray Carry is thoughtfully designed with the shooter in mind, incorporating features that enhance grip, aiming, and overall handling.

Black Sunburst G10 Grips: Superior Control and Aesthetics

The pistol is outfitted with Black Sunburst G10 grips. G10 is a high-pressure fiberglass laminate material known for its:

• Exceptional Durability: Resistant to impact, moisture, and temperature fluctuations.
• Aggressive Texture: The sunburst pattern machined into the G10 provides an aggressive, non-slip surface that ensures a secure and confident grip, even with wet hands or during rapid firing. This is crucial for maintaining control of a powerful .45 ACP pistol.
• Slim Profile: G10 grips can be machined to a thinner profile than traditional wood or polymer, contributing to the pistol's overall slimness and aiding in concealment.

Novak Front & Rear Sights: Rapid Target Acquisition

For effective aiming, the Devil Ray Carry features Novak front and rear sights. Novak sights are widely regarded for their low-profile, snag-free design and intuitive three-dot configuration, which facilitates quick and clear sight pictures. This setup allows for rapid target acquisition in dynamic situations, enhancing the pistol's utility for self-defense. The fixed sight style ensures reliability and consistency.

Match Design Finger Relief and Skeletonized Trigger: Precision and Comfort

Attention to detail is evident in the inclusion of match design finger relief on the frame, which provides a comfortable and consistent hand position for various grip styles. Complementing this is a skeletonized trigger, a feature often found on custom 1911s. A skeletonized trigger typically reduces mass, which can contribute to a lighter, crisper trigger pull, enhancing accuracy and shooter control. The Single Action Only (SAO) action of the 1911 is famous for its crisp, predictable break, allowing for precise shot placement.

Beavertail Grip Safety: Enhanced Control and Comfort

The frame includes a prominent beavertail grip safety. This extended tang behind the grip performs several critical functions:

• Prevents Hammer Bite: It acts as a barrier, preventing the hammer from "biting" or pinching the web of the shooter's hand during recoil.
• Promotes High Grip: The beavertail encourages a higher, more consistent grip on the pistol, which helps in managing recoil and improves overall shooting control.
• Integrated Safety: As a grip safety, it ensures the pistol can only fire when properly gripped, adding an important layer of safety.

Serrated Steel Slide: Positive Manipulation

The slide features distinct serrations (cuts) at the rear. These serrations provide excellent purchase for manipulating the slide, whether for chambering a round, clearing a malfunction, or performing a press check. This ensures reliable operation under any conditions.

Comprehensive Package: Value Beyond the Firearm

SDS Imports ensures that the Devil Ray Carry provides exceptional value right out of the box. Each pistol comes with a thoughtful array of accessories, minimizing the need for immediate additional purchases:

• Two Magazines: Doubling your carrying capacity and providing a spare for training or emergencies.
• Bushing Wrench: An essential tool for disassembling and maintaining the 1911's barrel bushing.
• Cleaning Kit: To help you keep your firearm in top condition from day one.
• Gun Case: A protective case for transport and storage.
• Trigger Lock: For secure storage, promoting firearm safety.

This complete package underscores the SDS Imports commitment to delivering a ready-to-use, high-quality product that caters to the practical needs of the user.

Why Choose the SDS Imports 1911 Devil Ray Carry?

When considering a new handgun, especially for concealed carry or self-defense, several factors come into play. The Devil Ray Carry directly addresses many of these concerns, making it an excellent investment.

• Concealability without Compromise: The unique Ed Brown Bobtail frame and 4.25" barrel (a "Commander" length) strike an ideal balance, offering the full power of the .45 ACP in a package that melts away under clothing. This is not just a compact pistol; it's a purposefully designed concealed carry solution.
• Proven Platform, Modern Execution: The 1911 platform has stood the test of time for over a century, revered for its robust design, single-action trigger, and legendary ergonomics. SDS Imports and Tisas build upon this proven foundation with modern materials (forged steel, Cerakote) and smart design choices (Bobtail, G10 grips) to deliver a contemporary classic.
• Rugged Reliability: The 4140 hammer-forged steel frame and slide, combined with a titanium firing pin and meticulous assembly, ensure that this pistol will perform reliably when you need it most. It's built to run, even under demanding conditions.
• Exceptional Value: Considering its forged construction, premium features like the Bobtail frame and G10 grips, and the included accessories, the SDS Imports 1911 Devil Ray Carry offers incredible value, often rivaling pistols at significantly higher price points. This makes high-quality 1911 ownership more accessible.
• Self-Defense Superiority: The potent .45 ACP cartridge, coupled with the 1911's crisp single-action trigger and reliable manual safeties (thumb and ambidextrous grip safety), provides a formidable tool for personal protection. The combination of control, power, and quick follow-up shots makes it a confident choice for self-defense.

Maintaining Your Devil Ray Carry: Tips for Longevity

To ensure your SDS Imports 1911 Devil Ray Carry continues to perform flawlessly for years, regular maintenance is essential.

• Regular Cleaning: After every shooting session, clean the barrel, slide, frame, and breech face. Pay attention to the feed ramp and extractor.
• Lubrication: Proper lubrication is key to the smooth operation of a 1911. Apply a thin coat of quality gun oil to friction points like the slide rails, barrel lugs, and trigger components.
• Inspection: Periodically inspect springs, pins, and other small parts for wear or damage. Replace components as needed. The included bushing wrench will assist with proper disassembly for cleaning.
• Ammunition: Use high-quality, factory-loaded ammunition. While the .45 ACP is robust, consistent use of quality rounds helps prolong the life of your firearm.

By adhering to a regular maintenance schedule, you ensure your Devil Ray Carry remains a reliable and accurate companion for all your shooting needs.

Technical Specifications and Features

The SDS Imports 1911 Devil Ray Carry (SKU: 10100102 / MPN: 10100102) is a testament to thoughtful design and robust construction. Its blend of classic 1911 aesthetics with modern functional enhancements makes it a standout choice for those seeking a high-performance, concealable .45 ACP pistol.

Feature	Detail
Brand	SDS Imports
Series	Devil Ray
Model	1911
Caliber	45 ACP
Capacity	8+1
Barrel Length	4.25"
Barrel Finish	Stainless
Barrel Material	Steel
Action	Single Action Only (SAO)
Frame Material	Steel
Frame Finish	Black Cerakote
Frame Size	Carry (Ed Brown Bobtail)
Slide Material	Steel
Slide Finish	Black Cerakote
Slide Features	Serrated
Grips	Black Sunburst G10
Sight Config.	Novak Front & Rear
Safety	Ambidextrous Grip / Thumb
Trigger	Skeletonized
OAL	7.90"
UPC	723551441336
Includes	2 Magazines, Bushing Wrench, Cleaning Kit, Gun Case, Trigger Lock