Taurus 1911 Full Size .45 ACP Pistol: A Legacy Reimagined for Modern Performance

Are you searching for a dependable, accurate, and aesthetically pleasing handgun for self-defense, target shooting, or competitive endeavors? The Taurus 1911 Full Size .45 ACP pistol, specifically model 1191101GVZ, stands as a testament to classic design refined with contemporary manufacturing precision. This meticulously crafted firearm combines the iconic 1911 platform's proven reliability with Taurus's commitment to quality and innovation, offering a premium shooting experience without the custom shop price tag.

Whether you're a seasoned firearms enthusiast looking for a reliable .45 ACP platform, a first-time gun owner seeking a robust and manageable full-size pistol, or someone simply appreciating the enduring legacy of John Browning's masterpiece, the Taurus 1911 delivers. This comprehensive guide will explore every facet of this exceptional handgun, helping you understand why it's a top contender in its class and how it addresses the needs of a diverse range of shooters.

Unveiling the Taurus 1911 Full Size: Core Specifications and Design Philosophy

At the heart of the Taurus 1911 line is a design philosophy centered on surpassing industry standards. Taurus begins with hammer-forged ordnance-grade steel for its frames, slides, and barrels, ensuring a level of durability and strength typically found in much more expensive firearms. Every part is then machined to incredibly tight tolerances, often exceeding what is considered standard in today's market. What does this mean for you? It translates directly into enhanced accuracy, consistent performance, and exceptional longevity, making this pistol a reliable companion for years to come.

Skilled Taurus pistolsmiths further elevate this foundation by hand-fitting and tuning each pistol. This attention to detail, combined with 19 standard features built entirely within Taurus's state-of-the-art manufacturing facility, results in a firearm that feels custom-tuned right out of the box.

Key Features and What They Mean for You:

• Caliber: .45 ACP (Automatic Colt Pistol)
  • Why it matters: The .45 ACP cartridge has a storied history of proven effectiveness in both military and civilian applications. Renowned for its stopping power and moderate recoil impulse in a full-size pistol, it's a popular choice for self-defense and target shooting. For those wondering about the "best" caliber for home defense, the .45 ACP is frequently cited for its significant energy transfer.
• Capacity: 8+1 Rounds
  • Why it matters: This standard capacity for a single-stack .45 ACP 1911 provides ample rounds for most self-defense scenarios while maintaining the slender grip profile that many shooters prefer. An included magazine means you're ready to go.
• Barrel: 5" Matte Stainless Steel
  • Why it matters: A 5-inch barrel is the classic "Government Model" length for a 1911. This length optimizes ballistic performance for the .45 ACP cartridge, contributing to excellent muzzle velocity and increased accuracy potential. The matte stainless steel finish provides superior corrosion resistance and a non-reflective appearance, critical for a long-lasting firearm. The 1:10" RH twist rate ensures optimal bullet stabilization for common .45 ACP projectile weights, leading to tighter groups on target.
• Slide: Tungsten Gray Cerakote Serrated Steel
  • Why it matters: The Tungsten Gray Cerakote finish is more than just aesthetically pleasing; it's a high-performance ceramic coating known for its exceptional resistance to abrasion, corrosion, chemicals, and impact. This enhances the pistol's durability in harsh environments and maintains its appearance over time. The serrated steel slide ensures a positive grip for manipulating the slide, whether checking the chamber, clearing a malfunction, or racking the first round.
• Frame: Matte Black Steel with Beavertail
  • Why it matters: A full-size steel frame absorbs recoil effectively, making the .45 ACP caliber more manageable and comfortable to shoot, especially during extended range sessions. The matte black finish complements the slide's Tungsten Gray, creating a distinctive two-tone look. The extended beavertail grip safety allows for a higher, more secure grip, distributing recoil more evenly across the hand and preventing "hammer bite" – a common issue with traditional 1911 grip safeties. This ergonomic enhancement contributes significantly to shootability and control.
• Grips: Gray VZ Operator II
  • Why it matters: VZ Grips are renowned in the custom 1911 world for their aggressive texture and durable G10 material. The gray VZ Operator II grips on this Taurus 1911 provide an exceptional, non-slip purchase even with wet hands or gloves, enhancing control and confidence. This choice signals Taurus's commitment to using high-quality, performance-oriented components.
• Trigger: Skeletonized
  • Why it matters: A skeletonized trigger typically reduces mass, which can contribute to a lighter, crisper trigger pull. This feature, combined with the 1911's inherent single-action-only (SAO) design, provides a short reset and a clean break, allowing for faster follow-up shots and improved accuracy. The 1911's trigger is often praised as one of its strongest attributes, and the Taurus version upholds this reputation.
• Sights: Novak Drift Adjustable Front & Rear
  • Why it matters: Novak sights are a popular choice for combat and carry pistols due to their low profile, snag-free design, and clear sight picture. The drift-adjustable feature allows for precise zeroing, enabling shooters to fine-tune point of impact to their specific ammunition and shooting style. This is a significant upgrade over fixed sights, offering practical utility for various shooting distances.
• Safety Features: Thumb / Grip / Firing Pin
  • Why it matters: The Taurus 1911 incorporates the classic three-point safety system synonymous with the 1911 platform.
    1. Thumb Safety: Ambidextrous and easily manipulated with the thumb for swift engagement and disengagement.
    2. Grip Safety: Disengages only when the pistol is properly gripped, preventing accidental discharge if dropped or mishandled.
    3. Firing Pin Safety: A passive safety that prevents the firing pin from moving forward unless the trigger is fully depressed, offering an additional layer of security against accidental discharge from impact. These multiple layers of safety provide peace of mind for responsible firearm owners.

The Enduring Legacy of the 1911 Platform: Why It Remains a Top Choice

The M1911 pistol, designed by the legendary John Browning, has been serving military, law enforcement, and civilians for over a century. Its robust design, powerful .45 ACP cartridge, and intuitive ergonomics have cemented its place in firearms history. The Taurus 1911 builds upon this legacy, offering a modern interpretation that respects the original's strengths while incorporating contemporary manufacturing techniques and material science.

Many ask, "Why choose a 1911 in the age of polymer pistols?" The answer lies in its unique attributes:

• Ergonomics: The slim, comfortable grip and natural pointability of the 1911 fit a wide range of hand sizes exceptionally well.
• Trigger Quality: The single-action-only trigger of a 1911 is legendary for its crisp break and short reset, making it easier for shooters to achieve precision.
• Reliability: A well-made 1911 is incredibly reliable, capable of performing under demanding conditions. Taurus's commitment to hammer-forged components and hand-fitting ensures this reliability.
• Recoil Management: The weight of a full-size steel 1911 effectively mitigates the felt recoil of the .45 ACP, making it surprisingly comfortable to shoot.
• Customization: The 1911 platform is one of the most customizable firearms in existence, with a vast aftermarket of parts and accessories.

Performance and Handling: What to Expect at the Range

When you take the Taurus 1911 Full Size .45 ACP to the range, you'll immediately appreciate its thoughtful design. The pistol’s weight, approximately 42 ounces, provides excellent recoil absorption, making the .45 ACP a pleasure to shoot even over extended sessions. The combination of the steel frame, 5-inch barrel, and the aggressive texture of the VZ Operator II grips ensures a stable shooting platform, translating to impressive accuracy.

Shooters often inquire about the accuracy of production 1911s. Thanks to Taurus's precision machining and hand-fitting process, this model is capable of excellent accuracy right out of the box. The crisp skeletonized trigger allows for precise shot placement, while the clear Novak sights enable rapid target acquisition and sight alignment. For those interested in competitive shooting disciplines like IDPA or USPSA, this Taurus 1911 provides a robust and reliable entry point into the sport, offering features typically found on higher-priced competition models.

Who Is This Pistol For? Real-World Applications

The Taurus 1911 Full Size .45 ACP is a versatile firearm suited for various applications:

• Home Defense: The potent .45 ACP caliber combined with the pistol's reliability and ease of use (especially with its excellent trigger) makes it an outstanding choice for home protection. Its full size contributes to better control and faster follow-up shots in high-stress situations.
• Target Shooting and Plinking: For recreational shooters, the comfortable ergonomics, manageable recoil, and inherent accuracy make it a joy to shoot at the range. It’s perfect for honing your fundamental shooting skills and enjoying the classic 1911 experience.
• Competitive Shooting (Entry Level): Its robust construction, good sights, and excellent trigger offer a solid foundation for aspiring competitive shooters looking to participate in local matches.
• Firearms Enthusiasts and Collectors: For those who appreciate the historical significance and classic lines of the 1911, the Taurus 1911 offers a high-quality, reliable option that respects its heritage while providing modern enhancements. It represents excellent value for a well-built 1911.
• Training and Skill Development: The single-action-only mechanism and clear sight picture make it an excellent platform for developing strong shooting fundamentals.

Caring for Your Taurus 1911: Maintenance and Longevity

Like any precision instrument, your Taurus 1911 will benefit from proper care and maintenance. Regular cleaning after each range session is essential to remove powder residue and fouling. Lubricating key friction points, such as the slide rails, barrel, and trigger components, will ensure smooth operation and prevent premature wear. Given its steel construction and Cerakote finish, this pistol is inherently durable, but consistent attention to maintenance will ensure its longevity and reliable performance for countless rounds.

Why Choose the Taurus 1911 Full Size from DEGuns.com?

The Taurus 1911 Full Size .45 ACP (Model 1191101GVZ) represents an exceptional blend of classic design, modern manufacturing, and outstanding value. Taurus has meticulously crafted a 1911 that stands shoulder-to-shoulder with more expensive models, offering features and precision typically found only in custom builds. From the hammer-forged steel components and hand-fitting to the premium VZ Operator II grips and Tungsten Gray Cerakote finish, every detail contributes to a superior shooting experience.

For those ready to experience the legendary performance and timeless appeal of the Taurus 1911 Full Size .45 ACP, this model is available at reputable firearms retailers such as DEGuns.com. As a trusted source for firearms and shooting accessories, DEGuns.com provides a comprehensive platform to explore this exceptional pistol and fulfill your shooting needs with confidence. Discover why so many shooters trust the Taurus 1911 to deliver reliable, accurate, and enjoyable performance every time.

Taurus 1911 Full Size .45 ACP Specifications

Feature	Specification
Brand	Taurus
Model	1911
Caliber	.45 ACP
Capacity	8+1 Rounds
Action	Single Action Only (SAO)
Barrel Length	5"
Barrel Material	Stainless Steel
Barrel Finish	Matte
Twist Rate	1:10" RH
Grooves	6
Overall Length	8.50"
Height	5.50"
Width	1.50"
Weight	42 oz
Frame Size	Full Size
Frame Material	Steel
Frame Finish	Matte Black
Frame Features	Steel Frame w/ Beavertail
Slide Material	Steel
Slide Finish	Tungsten Gray Cerakote
Slide Features	Serrated
Grips	Gray VZ Operator II
Sight Style	Adjustable
Sight Config.	Novak Drift Adj Front & Rear
Safety Features	Thumb / Grip / Firing Pin
Trigger Type	Skeletonized
Hand	Right Hand
Gun Platform	1911-Style
SKU/MPN	1191101GVZ
UPC	725327931560