First Impressions: SK & Springfield's da Vinci Mode

Ever heard of SK Guns? It's an outfit that only manufactures series-driven custom, limited-edition, collectible firearms--and the latest run has us doing a Vitruvian Man dance. SK has just introduced a “Leonardo da Vinci” Springfield Armory limited-edition engravers model 1911, chambered in 45 ACP.  Only 250 will be sold, so it's automatically a collector's item sure to appreciate in value.

The company's da Vinci Mode is actually a four-part collection of handguns inspired by the art and innovation of the Early Italian Renaissance ... and this one is the second so far. This design incorporates da Vinci's most celebrated works: the smile of the "Mona Lisa," "Vitruvian Man," and "The Last Supper," symbolizing the artist's contributions to the world of art that have captivated audiences all across the globe.

SK Customs uses proprietary color conversion engineering to create a violet color that is highly reflective and permanent. Leonardo da Vinci features genuine imported Italian Olivewood grip panels engraved with Italy’s Fleur de Lis, which are hand-painted to match the violet accents on the slide. The gun boasts a semi-polished finish on the frame and the slide flats, and a high-polished finish on the barrel of the firearm. There is selective 24-karat gold plating on the artwork featured on this handgun and on select parts of the gun itself.

“Leonardo da Vinci made remarkable contributions to the Italian Renaissance and the world as a painter, engineer, scientist, sculptor and so much more,” said Simon Khiabani, owner and founder of SK Customs. “The features of the handgun pay tribute to his greatest artistic works. And as an engineer who designed war machines, the gun itself is a tribute to da Vinci’s contributions and long-lasting effects on modern society.” MSRP $2,405; SKGuns.com.