Launching 2023: The 1911 Goes Savage

Savage Arms has built its reputation on its signature rifles and then, eventually, shotguns. Just last year, the company released its Stance concealed-carry pistol with a message to the industry that it was going to once again become a full-service firearms company. For 2023, the Massachusetts-based manufacturer is backing that statement up by delivering a line of superbly crafted 1911 pistols, and we got to put our hands on some at the 2023 SHOT Show.

Initial offerings will be of the Government profile consisting of a full-sized frame and a 5” barreled slide. Both parts are forged from stainless steel, which yields a more robust product than the casting alternative. Buyers will have their choice of railed or unrailed versions, allowing them to keep their gun looking classic … or “tac it out” with accessories like lights or lasers. VZ G10 grips can be found on every model and are offered in a wide variety of colors to suit one’s individual tastes or match ancillary range gear that it might be associated with.

External features are more than skin deep; each Savage 1911 is built with an ambidextrous safety, and a flared and lowered ejection port to enhance reliability. Mechanically, we noticed features that are undoubtedly Savage, like a dual recoil spring, nitride-coated titanium firing pin and a fully machined hammer and sear.

At the booth, I had the opportunity to handle the entire line, including railed and unrailed variants. Running my fingers along the lines certainly backed up these statements, as they were exquisitely cut without even a hint of tool markings. As I raised the pistol, my eyes instantly grabbed the tritium Novak sights, telling me that this was going to get on target silly fast. Lastly, I was able to work the action and dry-fire the pistol, revealing one of the tightest slide-to-frame fits I’ve ever felt and one sweet trigger job. Needless to say, we’re ecstatic to get this one on the range. MSRPs will vary from $1,349 to $1,499, depending upon model chosen. For more information, visit savagearms.com