Smith & Wesson's Performance Center SW1911 and Round Butt SW1911 merge classic 1911 design with contemporary engineering to create a full-size pistol with a lighter-weight frame. Read Paul Scarlata's full "Arsenal" review of the pistols. Photos courtesy of Paul Budde.
S&W's Performance 1911s
Three slots lighten the slide and give the pistol a distinctive look.
The SW1911 features a modest magazine well funnel that greatly smooths out and speeds up reloads.
The Commander-size Round Butt SW1911 has a lightweight titanium frame.
A Safariland paddle holster was used in POLICE Magazine's test.
The Round Butt SW1911's magazine well is beveled to help smooth out reloads while the rounded off grip frame and mainspring housing reduces 'signature' when carried concealed.
The Performance Center SW1911 is a full sized 1911 with stainless steel slide and frame.
Contemporary features include lowered and flared ejection ports, skeletonized hammers, external extractors, ambidextrous safeties, and beavertail grip safeties.
The Briley Spherical bushing uses a titanium coated ring inside of a specially machined muzzle bushing that holds the barrel very securely.
The SW1911's signature "fish scale" grasping grooves provide a secure purchase.
The 1911 is still a favorite of soldiers, law enforcement officers, and armed professionals around the world.