testtest

CMP 1911A1...Please educate me.

Dobbinsky

Dobbinsky

Professional
I've always been interested in their surplus 1911A1s, but the qualifications and process is confusing to me. I'm retired military with an ID card, but don't have any CMP sponsored clubs in my area. Firstly, is the #1 service grade 1911A1 worth the money? Have you seen one? And how can I get a card if I decide to purchase one? Thanks!

thecmp.org

Surplus U.S. Army 1911 Information - Civilian Marksmanship Program

The latest on the CMP 1911 sales will be posted on this page, including ordering and grade information as well as availability.
thecmp.org thecmp.org
 
Mass manufacturing for the U.S. military 1911a1’s ended in 1945, and the M1911A1 remained the standard-issue U.S. sidearm until August 1985, when it was officially phased out. The 1911’s sold by the CMP for the most part are a mix of refinished frames, slides and small parts. Hardly any have original parts that left the factory together. Pre 1945 frames and slides were not case hardened and may show considerable wear. You may get a jewel or a pig in a poke, but you’ll get a 1911 frame that was a war time issue that retains some historical value. If you’re hoping to get a good shooter you might be better off spending your money on a newer manufactured 1911 that are available for a comparable price.
 
Recusant said:
Mass manufacturing for the U.S. military 1911a1’s ended in 1945, and the M1911A1 remained the standard-issue U.S. sidearm until August 1985, when it was officially phased out. The 1911’s sold by the CMP for the most part are a mix of refinished frames, slides and small parts. Hardly any have original parts that left the factory together. Pre 1945 frames and slides were not case hardened and may show considerable wear. You may get a jewel or a pig in a poke, but you’ll get a 1911 frame that was a war time issue that retains some historical value. If you’re hoping to get a good shooter you might be better off spending your money on a newer manufactured 1911 that are available for a comparable price.
Click to expand...
I didn't realize they were so old! I scored expert with one on my first qual with the grunts.
Our armory had nothing but 1911A1s when I left that command in 1985, about 300 of them. I would have gladly taken them off their hands for them before they were issued new sidearms. You know, to reduce their workload and stuff. :)
 
I have two of the CMP 1911s. Excellent gun for the money and a real piece of military history. A USGI 1911 on the open market will cost at least several hundred dollars more.
However, be aware that they are mixmasters that have been through at least one rebuild. Maybe more. Plus CMP inspected and repaired them as needed. Almost all of them have mixed brand names and replacement parts. Plus the new parts are black instead of parkerized like the originals. These will mostly be small pins and such.
These are genuine G.I. issue guns that were put into storage for possible re-issue if needed. Uncle Sam don't care about pretty or matching parts as long as they work. ;)

Dobbinsky said:
And how can I get a card if I decide to purchase one?
Click to expand...
Are you talking about a FOID card? I have no idea. Check with your state.
 
I see 44 states have a CMP state association

In addition to shooting clubs, the CMP also has several special affiliates. Membership in these organizations satisfies our requirement for purchase. These special affiliates include:

Congressionally chartered veterans’ organizations such as the VFW, AL, DAV, MCL, etc.
U.S. Military services (active or reserves)
National Guard, to include retirees
Professional 501(c)3 law enforcement organizations and associations such as the FOP, NAPO, NSA, etc.
The Garand Collector’s Association is a CMP Affiliated Club. You can join by visiting the GCA Membership website or download the GCA Membership Brochure.

You can search for them here:
Just choose Club type - State association

CMP Club & Competition Tracker | Club Search

ct.thecmp.org ct.thecmp.org
 
Thanks guys. Although CMP said they recognized active and reserve military to meet their requirments, I found this on AI about retired military. If it's correct I'm all set.


How It Works for Military Retirees

• Club Requirement Satisfaction: Being in the U.S. military (active, reserve, or retired) and the National Guard (including retirees) satisfies the CMP's club membership requirement for purchasing surplus rifles and related items. You do not need to join a separate shooting club or a congressionally chartered veterans' organization.
• Proof of Membership/Affiliation: A copy of your current or retiree military ID card serves as proof of membership in a CMP-affiliated organization.
• Proof of Citizenship: To use your military ID card as proof of U.S. citizenship, you must be in pay grade E-5 or above (otherwise, you will need to provide another form of citizenship proof like a passport or birth certificate).
• Marksmanship Requirement: Past military service can also satisfy the CMP's requirement to show marksmanship or firearm familiarity.
 
Grayfox said:
I have two of the CMP 1911s. Excellent gun for the money and a real piece of military history. A USGI 1911 on the open market will cost at least several hundred dollars more.
However, be aware that they are mixmasters that have been through at least one rebuild. Maybe more. Plus CMP inspected and repaired them as needed. Almost all of them have mixed brand names and replacement parts. Plus the new parts are black instead of parkerized like the originals. These will mostly be small pins and such.
These are genuine G.I. issue guns that were put into storage for possible re-issue if needed. Uncle Sam don't care about pretty or matching parts as long as they work. ;)


Are you talking about a FOID card? I have no idea. Check with your state.
Click to expand...
Did you order #1 grade (service grade), and how worn was the frame/slide?
 
Both of mine are Service Grade. Outside of a little expected finish wear, they're fine.
Not a very good picture, but it'll give you an idea of condition. 1 and 2 are the CMP guns. I'm afraid there is a bit of glare on #1. You might also note that the thumb safety on #2 is black as it has been replaced.

vqqslWV.jpg

Also bear in mind that these are military issue guns made with rather loose tolerances for combat conditions. Accuracy is combat accurate. Don't expect a tack driver.
 
Last edited:
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top