In my last post, I discussed why a 1911 might be called a production model or a semi-custom model. I’d like to take that further and point out the things you are likely to get in a semi-custom that you won’t in a production model.

The makers of 1911s all fall into three general groups - production, semi-custom, and custom. What is it that differentiates the groups and why should you care? The most significant and obvious difference is the cost.

A common complaint about the 1911 is that is is an outdated and unreliable pistol. I have not found that to be true in a general sense, but it can be true in more narrow situations.

Guy Kawasaki describes a great product as being “deep, indulgent, complete, elegant, and emotive.” I think the 1911 platform is a great product and I think his definition applies.