High Standard M1911 Review

If you’re in the market for a classic yet functional 1911, the High Standard M1911 might already be on your radar. Known for its no-frills design and affordable price point, this handgun caters to those who love the vintage vibes of the M1911 but don’t want to empty their wallets. As someone who’s spent time at the range with this beauty, let me walk you through what it’s like, from its standout features to its less-than-perfect quirks.

Bottomline

The High Standard M1911 is a basic, budget-friendly 1911 that’s more about function than flair.

High Standard M1911 Specs

Caliber	Capacity	BBL	OAL	Height	Weight
.45 ACP	7+1	5″	8.75″	5.5″	40 oz.

A Brief Walk Down History Lane

High Standard isn’t exactly a household name when it comes to 1911s, but they’ve carved out a niche by making reliable and affordable firearms. Originally founded in the 1920s, High Standard gained fame for their .22-caliber pistols before branching into other designs. The M1911 is their tribute to the iconic firearm used by U.S. forces for decades. While it’s not the top-shelf Colt or Kimber, it’s clear that High Standard aimed to deliver a solid entry-level option for the everyday shooter.

First Impressions: A Hands-On Look

Unboxing the High Standard M1911, I was greeted by a simple, straightforward handgun. No fancy frills or extras here, just the pistol, a magazine, and a no-nonsense manual. It’s clear this gun is meant for shooting, not showing off.

At first glance, it’s easy to appreciate its classic military-style aesthetics. The parkerized finish gives it a rugged, old-school vibe, and the traditional checkered grips provide a decent hold. While it’s not the most elegant or refined 1911 on the market, it’s certainly functional.

Picking it up, the gun feels substantial in hand. Weighing in at around 39 ounces, it’s hefty, a hallmark of the original M1911 design. This weight helps with recoil management but might feel a bit much for those used to polymer-framed pistols.

At the Range: How It Shoots

Now, let’s talk performance. Shooting the High Standard M1911 was… pretty satisfying. The trigger is decent, breaking at around 5 pounds. It’s not as crisp as some higher-end 1911s, but it’s manageable and consistent. The sights are your standard GI-style—functional but nothing to write home about. Don’t expect fancy fiber optics or adjustable options here.

Accuracy-wise, this pistol holds its own. At 25 yards, I was able to keep my groups tight enough to feel confident in its reliability. That said, the sights did take some getting used to. If you’re new to GI sights, they can feel a bit rudimentary, especially compared to modern setups.

Recoil was surprisingly tame, thanks to the all-steel construction. Even after running through a few magazines, my hands didn’t feel fatigued. It’s a great option for extended-range sessions.

Reliability, however, was a mixed bag. While it cycled well with 230-grain ball ammo, it had a few hiccups with hollow points. After some research, I found this isn’t uncommon for entry-level 1911s. A little tuning and polishing might fix this, but it’s something to consider if you’re planning to use it for self-defense.

Who’s It For?

The High Standard M1911 is perfect for someone who loves the classic 1911 look and feel but doesn’t want to drop a small fortune. It’s great for range enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone who wants a dependable (but not flawless) shooter. However, if you’re looking for a carry gun or something competition-ready, you might want to look elsewhere.

Further reading: Ultimate Gun Reviews

Final Thoughts

The High Standard M1911 may not be as smooth as today’s models, but if you’re willing to put in a little TLC, it’s a fun and affordable way to enjoy a piece of history. Would I recommend it? Absolutely, but with some caveats. Go in knowing what you’re getting, a basic, budget-friendly 1911 that’s more about function than flair. For what it’s worth, it’s earned a place in my collection as a reliable range buddy and a nod to the past. And really, isn’t that what the M1911 is all about?