amm5061
NES Member
Smith & Wesson 1911A1
The patent on John Moses Browning’s 1911 handgun design ran out long ago, and nearly all gun companies now manufacture their own versions of this iconic handgun. Smith & Wesson is no exception, producing its own S&W1911 E-Series pistols. The pistols are generally true to the final version of the 1911A1, with the exception of stainless steel barrels, skeletonized hammers, and in some cases an accessory rail for the mounting of lights and lasers. The company makes both full-size Government and smaller Commander handguns, the latter with a barrel three quarters of an inch shorter than the five-inch Government barrel and a slightly shorter slide. Commanders also feature bobtailed mainspring housings and aggressive checkering to help the shooter stay on target. The 1911 E-Series is generally true enough to form to satisfy 1911 purists.
From Introducing the 5 Ultimate Smith & Wesson Guns
I call bullshit. I own an E-Series 1911, and while I love it and it's a fantastically built 1911, it is in no way true to Saint John's design. From the full-length guide rod to the external extractor, S&W has made modifications. If you're a 1911 purist, this is not the gun you're looking for. It is a nice addition to the collection, but pretty far from true to the final version.