Dan Wesson Review: The Best 1911? - Specialist
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In this review, I cover the Dan Wesson Specialist 1911 chambered in .45 ACP. Is the Dan Wesson the best 1911 for home defense? Duty? Concealed carry? Is it the most accurate, most reliable modern 1911 available? I certainly think so! The only thing better is a custom 1911. Much like how Staccato is the best production 2011 on the market, the Dan Wesson is the best 1911.
For TH-cam: this was shot on a designated shooting range by a certified instructor and range safety officer. Discussion was filmed in the office of a shooting range that is a clear, safe environment.
Thanks!
Thanks so much! I’m glad you enjoyed! 🙌
Great review. I am a big 1911 fan. Thinking about getting a Springfield operator or a DW specialist.
The ONLY “ding” I have on Dan Wesson 1911s I that their thumb safeties need a dehorn if your grip is such that your strong side thumb rides the thumb safety.
I subscribed to your channel. Keep up the good work! It’s great to see the next generation appreciating the 1911.
I’m glad you enjoyed the review! 👍 I’d take a sharp safety with all forged parts over the Springfield loaded up with MIM parts any day, but that’s just my 2 cents. Welcome to the channel! 👋
I would love to own a Dan Wesson! I consider them a step and a half above Springfield/kimber. It’s not a nighthawk, but it’s a Staccato for 1911, you nailed that comparison!
I’m definitely glad I got mine! It turned into the only 1911 I was shooting/carrying so I figured I’d get rid of everything I wasn’t using to buy some different stuff. 👍 Although, I might have to add a 10mm 1911 soon…
@@NightwoodGunslove my specialist in 10mm
Just found your channel and subscribed. Great video! I bought a DW Specialist 45 with duty finish a year ago and love it! The fit and finish is perfect. Shoots like a dream. No failures yet. Highly impressed with this gun. Definitely an heirloom piece that I will be handing down to my kids.
I’m doing the same right now! Just pulled off the band aid and sold my Wilson Combat 1911 CQB
There pretty sweet
I've had the pleasure of owning several Dan Wesson 1911's in the past including a CBOB, VBOB and several Valors. The Specialist is my next gun, I've been eyeing them for a while now.
I’ve had a couple of other Dan Wessons as well. The Specialist is the one to own! 👍 Good choice!
Dan Wesson is a Great 1911 to Keep. We had a couple DW Specialists. I still own 4 Kimbers, and 6 Springfield Armory 1911’s. You will love you DW, Congratulations!! 🎊🎈🎉🍾
🤠👮🏻♂️👍🇺🇸👻. B9USA Sr.
Thanks! I watched your Springfield Ronin 1911 video yesterday as I’m thinking of getting one in 10mm. 👍
I have seen you comment on a few tubers. That is nice of you to do. I am sure it means a lot to them
@@curtistignor3966 Thanks very much Curtis! I agree with you, and I will continue. Thank-You for watching these hard working young channels. Also, you sending me this positive comment is truly appreciated.
Cheers my friend. 🤠😎🇺🇸👨🏻🚀👍 B9USA Sr.
I have a DW ECP, a custom 5" 45 acp Caspian, and a Springfield TRP. I love them all! I carry the ECP and highly recommend it. All of them function perfectly, but I did get rid of the full guide rod in the TRP and replaced it with a Wilson flat wound spring kit.
Thanks for the video, I traded up a few years go selling my Kimbers and Springfields to be able to move to Dan Wesson. I have not been disappointed.
Definitely a good decision! 😎👍
I have the Specialist commander with duty treat and the 1913 rail. Like you I've had many and the DW is a jewel. It's the first 1911 I've owned that I didn't have to tweak out of the box except for swapping out the factory trigger for a medium Harrison but that's personal preference. Everything you said was spot on. Great video!
Very nice! I wish I would have gone with the duty treat, I just couldn’t find one at the time. DW really is the best without having to go “full custom.” Truly beautiful yet rugged 1911s 😎👍
Excellent review . I have a pm9 and the break In instructions was 200 rounds . I have also had and sold two $5000 full customs . With eyes closed , I could not tell the difference except I liked the safety better on my dw . I spent about $300 getting the custom features that mattered to me . The biggest difference was the finish on the inside of the gun . The Dw had tool marks while the full custom guns were as pretty on the inside as the outside . That difference didn’t make a difference to me . They really are the sweet spot for 1911s.
I’ve also owned and sold a $5k custom. And like you said, the finer finish details were the only difference. No sharp corners, racked a little smoother, trigger was a little crisper and the inside was perfectly finished. Phenomenal gun that was beautiful handcrafted, but hard to justify an additional $3k+ (at least for me)
Love my Dan Wesson TCP in .45…for an aluminum framed, commander size gun, it handles the .45 round very well
The TCP is one of their best offerings!
Subscribed! I had to sell 2 Wilsons and my Nighthawk Predator. Divorce and losing my job within 3 months. Love ur vid!
Thanks for the sub! Sorry about your series of unfortunate events 😢 Glad you enjoyed the vid, though!
Had a chance to get this one or a used older model (without slide serrations and 3 slot picatinny rail), and had to go with the older model. The newer one is nice but there's just something about the aesthetics of the older one that won me over.
I definitely like the aesthetics of the older model. It looks more “aggressive” with the picatinny rail and it has more of the classic look without the serrations. Nice find! 👍
First time watching your channel. Primarily looking for what you had to say about the Dan Wesson. I think you did a nice job and I enjoyed your down to earth humor. Overall it was a nice review.
Welcome to the channel! I’m glad you enjoyed 👍
First, I always enjoy your humor in your videos.
Second, I have always liked 1911s but have never felt the urge to purchase one. I feel like that kind of goes into the collectors category for me. Maybe one day though!
Third, can we just point out how when you grip your gun, all the blood is rushed to just your trigger finger? That’s when you know you got a hell of a grip on your firearm!
I’m glad you always enjoy the humor!
The Tisas 1911 A1 US Army is a great entry point if you want to add a 1911 to the collection 👍
I also noticed my finger in the footage and freaked out at first, lol. I don’t look at my hands while shooting so I was surprised to see a purple finger! This was at the end of a long day of shooting (and gripping guns tightly) so my finger was feelin’ a bit warm…
No MIM parts, hand fitted and tuned, own 4, Luv DW👍💯
Agreed! DW’s got it all! 🇺🇸👍
@@NightwoodGuns loved the funny cliches and blown up target 🤣, Forwarded to all my buds 👍 thank you bro.
Hey, man, thanks! Glad you enjoyed the video! And thanks for sharing, that helps so much! 🙌
That cleaning process is only for their stainless models. The stainless models can gall and that’s why the break in process is what it is. They make what I agree with you on is the best production 1911’s currently available! Nice choice on yours.
Just a FYI you could also order a custom from them for just a little more money and still a great value if they still offer that service. Great video!
Rick
Thanks for the info! I think DW recommends the break-in on all models (I had an ECO in 9mm that definitely needed it) but like you said: it’s especially important on the stainless models because of galling that can flat-out ruin the gun if you don’t clean it 👍 I’m definitely very happy with my Specialist and its perfect reliability. I’ll check into their custom service to see if it still exists, that sounds like a good deal. Thanks for the comment!
@@NightwoodGuns you might be right, I just remember it being a big deal with the stainless ones, it’s been a few years since I bought a new one! Everyone one of the Wesson’s I owned ran great! Enjoy yours it’s a beauty!
Rick
@@theprepperrevelator Thanks! Dan Wesson has definitely impressed me!
I might be wrong, but when I bought mine, all their guns were stainless . Some had a black finish over the stainless.that is one of the most scratch resistant finishes around . I believe it was called “hard hat” and was a finish applied by Dave Severn’s shop for DW.
The Specialist is a man's gun. It is a large frame and mitigates recoil nicely. I have several high-end pieces including Cabot and Nighthawk. The DW DWX is wonderful. The specialist is for me, and the price is right. Follow the damn break instructions. I found minutes of metal in the cleanings from the gun. The gun got better and better. Got to love it.
😎👍
Now you got me all excited about a Dan Wesson 1911, and it turns out their warranty is only five years! I hope to live longer than that! 😬
😂🤣 For a lifetime warranty with slightly better quality you can always jump up to Wilson or Nighthawk 😅 But yeah, Dan Wesson is the best bang-for-your-buck when it comes to nice 1911s 👍
Great review. Great pistol. I have one in "Distressed Duty Black." It's one of my all-time favorites.
Glad you enjoyed the review! I love the look of the distressed duty black, you have a great pistol there! 👍
I own several Dan Wessons and never to my knowledge never seen the 50 round cleaning thing in the manual. Not doubting you but I don't recall seeing it. All my Dan Wessons shot flawless out the box.
Yeah, I just double checked. It’s under pistol maintenance right after the cleaning section. It talks about the break-in. I’ve had 4 Dan Wessons. Two shot perfect out of the box (specialist and pointman). Two had a lot of trouble until they were broken in (ECO and Valor) Thanks for your input, good to hear all of yours were perfect 👍
My TCP didn’t require a break in period either. 300 flawless rounds thus far
My Dan Wesson has it in the manual
If there's something to take away from the popularity of Staccato and the recent 1911DS it's that the only thing that holds the 1911 back is magazine capacity. Just git gud at reloading.
My experience with 1911s is almost the inverse of yours. My dad is a Glock guy so I learned on those, but when it came time to buy my own gun it was a Sig Sauer 1911 "Nightmare" as I see Glocks as "dad guns". Today I'm a full-blown revolver and 1911 boomer.
Today my Dan Wesson Vigil is the 1911 that sticks with me. I love it. I compete with it. I carry it. If you ask me, it's the best gun in the world.
As for 45 vs 9mm? Well I've seen a security camera video or two of people misholstering their Glocks and giving themselves the 9mm ouch pill straight to the no-fun-zone and remain standing. Would 45 have done more? I dunno maybe. I don't really care
You are right on the money. As long as you can build a reliable 1911, the only thing holding it back is mag capacity. It’s the reason I EDC a Staccato. But I used to compete in single-stack and got gud at reloading, so it wasn’t a huge deal anyway.
I think it’s awesome that you broke free from Glock and are all about that 1911/revolver life. That’s pretty unusual, lol! And the Dan Wesson Vigil is a phenomenal gun!
As far as .45 vs 9mm: they both poke holes and get the job done. It doesn’t really matter. And as far as the doses of hot lead to the gonads… people need to learn to keep their fingers off the trigger and slowly reholster.
A Staccato is certainly in my future if I ever leave WA. I'll pick up your books, I like your style, it makes me want to get back into writing myself. Thanks for the content, and for replying lol.
I can’t recommend Staccato enough. 👍 If you escape WA, definitely pick one up! And thanks for checking out my books, I’m sure you’ll enjoy them.
You should definitely get back in to writing if you enjoy it. The world needs more storytellers. Even just 30 minutes a night can get you back in the habit 👍 Thanks for commenting, I always appreciate a good chat!
OK. Now that's a pretty cool intro.
😅👍
THANKS BRET GREAT REVIEW
Glad you enjoyed! 😎👍
I think their break-in period is very, very conservative. I did 200 rounds with 4 types of ammo. Every 50 rounds I just threw some extra grease in the rails. Zero problems. When I cleaned it after that session there was no metal to speak of. Just carbon build up. It did get smoother though!
I agree with you… when you get a good one. I had an ECO that was horrible. Metal everywhere in the rails during every cleaning and intermittent malfunctions. But then it broke in and was awesome! This Specialist, though, has been 100 percent from the very beginning much like yours! 👍
Most 1911 builders will say do not use grease
Grease has much higher viscosity than a specific oil, probably going to slow the slide action down in a measurable way. Also grease will probably capture the debris and carbon and turn into a abrasive paste before long.
I have a DW Guardian and l absolutely love it.
Very nice! I like the Guardian! 😎👍
I would love to see a video about how you went about selling guns. I’m always curious what route people choose to go.
I’m not sure YT would like that very much… but I’ll look into the rules to see if I can make a video about it (or if our great overlords need to censor it for our own good)
Advice for breaking in a 1911. Hand rack the slide over and over while watching videos or TV. But never drop the slide on an empty chamber, always keep your hand on it. Won't break it in as well as firing but helps.Also store the pistol with the slide locked open for a while when new. Or just buy a Colt which right out of the box rattles like a tin can full of rocks 😂
You know your stuff! Great advice all around. I also like chambering snap caps to help break it in. That way the feed ramp gets some love, too 👍
@@NightwoodGuns Just found your channel. I don't think there is another channel with such honest opinions and information.
Honest Outlaw is pretty good but doesn't go into as much detail on all the different aspects. Most others are just gun presenters who avoid anything negative. Military Arms is pretty good also.
@@bungalobill7941 I appreciate that feedback, thank you. I agree that Honest Outlaw and Military Arms Channel are pretty decent. I'll do my best to keep the quality content flowing.
Nice! Enjoyed watching your review of this gun! I have a DW Specialist in duty coat 9mm, a Valor V-bob in stainless 45ACP, a Vigil CCO in 45ACP, and a Guardian in 38Super. All are very nice and exceptionally well put together. I also have a couple of various kimbers; a couple of top-of-the-line Rugers; a couple of top-of-the-line Colts; two very nice Magnum Research/Bul Armory guns; and 2nice Springfield Armory Garrisons that I use for tactical training class workhorses (one stainless, one blued). Definitely prefer the series 70 guns as they're a simpler build with better triggers. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks for your comment! I’m glad you enjoyed the video! It sounds like you know your way around a 1911 👍 I agree with your assessment!
@Nightwood Guns The DW GUARDIAN is by far the very best model I've found as it checks all the boxes and is an incredible shooter at any price! You should check it out, you'll be glad you did!
Thanks for the recommendation! If I ever find one, I’ll be sure to check it out! 👍
@Nightwood Guns Have had extremely good luck and excellent service of late from my Magnum Research MR1911CSS 45ACP and my Bul Armory 1911 Government model 9mm. They have really impressed me with their quality, accuracy, price and attention to detail! Phenomenal pistols!
@@user-wt9il2xl4g thanks for sharing your experience with those. I’ve only heard great things about both of them 👍
I have the specialist in 10 mm all I did extra was put a set of adjustable sights I would put up against any of them
That’s an awesome gun! Specialist in 10mm is a great choice! 😎👍
Still undecided on the Ameriglo One dot rear post.
I like 1911's myself. This was a fine commercial. Dan Wesson should give you a kick back. LOL. That being said I have .45 .40S&W-10MM, and a 9MM. The .40 was the 1911 I brought, the 10MM was the tip slide I made from parts at other outlets. What I'm getting at is my three, with a top four 1911's, cost less than your Dan Wesson. I have Tisas, and Rock Armory.
I will look into this further, being I own a 1911 Dan Wesson in 10mm
10mm Dan Wesson is on my list 👍
I always liked 1911's but never thought I could carry one practically. But now I own 2 a kimber pro carry and a Fusion Riptide-C. My local shop has a V-Bob Stainless and it felt amazing but for the price I definitely got to start saving up.
1911’s are great! I’m glad you jumped on board! Dan Wesson is definitely worth saving for 👍
Definitely a 'go ahead and get it's buy! I love my V-BOB!
Hmm 🤔 my EDC is currently a Kimber Ultra Carry II 3” 45ACP but having just purchased the full sized Dan Wesson Specialist I’m thinking I’ll eventually make it my EDC. So my question to you is what holster setup do you recommend for carrying a full-sized 1911.
@James Logan I use a DeSantis cozy partner but not sure I'd recommend it as I haven't tried any others yet.
@James Logan I'm running a DeSantis Mad Max inside the waistband rig. It places a full 5" barrel inside where it's better concealed. It also works for the commander and ultra length guns as it gives better resistance to short barrel 'tip over' at the waistline. Also spreads out the weight of a full size 1911 better and is leather so it won't scratch up your expensive finish like a kydex rig. Unfortunately, I don't think they make one for a railed 1911. I carry my 5" Specialist 9mm in a Phlster Floodlight outside kydex with a surefire x300u weapon light on it.
I took my Dan Wesson hammers and used a stainless cold blue with a sealer. It turns the hammer black but it wont ever rust and the chemicals only cost about $50 bucks in total and it will have plenty to last you many more bluing processes.
I actually go back and forth between carrying my .45 caliber 1911 and my 17 round capacity 9mm M&P Metal with a 23 round magazine that I carry as a spare. Between the two, I do not believe one platform is superior to the other nor do I believe either caliber is better than the other. It’s all about how to utilize each platform and overcome the unique disadvantages that both platforms and calibers have.
9mm obviously has the advantage of having higher capacity but one can not deny the power of a 230 grain bullet of a .45 Auto round. Yes, I carry hollow points in my .45 just like I do in my 9mm. However, if I was stuck with full metal jackets, I would trust my 8 to 10 round .45 caliber 1911 more than I would my higher capacity 9mm M&P… if I didn’t have access to hollow points, of course. Some might ask, “When will you not have access to hollow points?” I will remind those that ask about the ammo shortage that occurred during the pandemic where it was nearly impossible to find ammo. Although, I will say that I had an easier time finding .45 FMJs than I did everything else and, since .45 caliber FMJs give you more power but less penetration than a 9mm FMJ, they can be trusted for self defense. That brings me to my next point, which is that if you are in a hurry to stock pile rounds that can be used for target shooting and self defense… remind you, in a hurry… then going .45 Auto is the way to go as it is the most cost effective way to accomplish that goal. I don’t say this to bash 9mm because I still carry 9mm and trust my life to it as long as I have hollow points. In fact, I will be carrying my 9mm today. I’m not talking to those that have stocked up on 9mm hollow points during good times. I’m talking to those that didn’t realize the importance of a gun until things started going down hill in society as we potentially face another “Summer of Love” next year.
Some might also ask, “Why get a .45 when you can get a 10mm?” I will simply invite you to watch Paul Harrell’s findings on 10mm vs .40 S&W, where he explains that many ammo manufacturers water down the power of their 10mm rounds to that of .40 S&W. I don’t want to be questioning the performance of my rounds when I’m at the store. I want to know what I have, which is why I will never give up my .45 caliber 1911.
Good points 😎👍
I plan on buying this model, but I am torn between the 10 mm and the 45 ACP. Would you buy this weapon in 10 mm?
Yeah, 10mm is awesome 👍 Just do some research on the capabilities of the two calibers and consider how you want your firearm to perform.
Break in period? Huh, another thing I didn't have a clue about. Is that for all guns, or just these very tightly fitted ones ? It's just like engines and breaks on a vehicle, maybe ? Anyway, another cool gun with great history.
You learn something new every day 👍 Break-in periods are typically only for guns with very tight tolerances. But it’s good to test all guns for reliability because lots of things can go wrong during manufacturing.
Good call!
👍
My Kimber 1911 10mm Black Ice Rapide anyday!
That’s a sharp-looking 1911 😎👍
Love my rapide dawn 9mm as well. This dan Wesson looks sweet too
Customs have tons of issues also lol
They certainly can. Especially recently 😅
What brand of shoulder holster is that. Just picked up Government and Commander size Specialist.
Galco Miami Classic 👍
I..."cheaped" out and got a Sig Emperor Scorpion
Haha! Still a good choice! I had a couple of Sig 1911s and I enjoyed them!
What about the recoil ? it looks to be quite stable at shooting. I intend to purchase the Specialist Commander wich is easier to conceal & carry.
Recoil is average for .45 acp. The weight of the steel frame helps. Good grip/shooting technique can tame any auto loader cartridge 👍 I think you will very much enjoy the Specialist Commander.
Great intro 🤣🤣🤣
😅👍
Awesome video. I bought same exact gun a 2 months ago. Was wandering if yours came with a ramped barrel as well? I was a little confused because I’ve never seen that on a 45auto 1911.
Thanks! Mine does not have a ramped barrel. I’ve only ever seen ramped barrels in 9mm and 10mm 1911s with the exception of aluminum-framed Dan Wessons in .45. I had an ECO (aluminum frame) in .45 that had a ramped barrel. It’s weird that two .45 acp specialists have different barrels. I got mine in 2020, so I’m wondering if it’s a new change for 2022?
Mine has a ramped barrel so does the commander size. They are both flawlessly.
Why is this channel not at 200k subs? Please do a 1000 rd update….
Haha, thanks. We’ll get there 👍 When I eventually hit 1k rounds, I’ll be sure to do an update. Just hoping .45 acp drops in price soon.
@@NightwoodGuns I am rich so I will donate ten rounds! LOL
Lol! 990 more until the 1k update! I really need an ammo sponsor. I figure I can make that happen around 30k subs.
@@NightwoodGuns Put out more videos…from what I am told that is the way to up the sub number!
@@surfingonmars8979 That appears to be the secret sauce, lol.
Just wondering what qualifies your opinions? Military or LE service? Decades of shooting? Competition experience?
I like to let my content speak for itself as I’m not a braggadocious person. I’m always learning and growing.
But I’d like to answer your question since you seem genuinely curious. Shooting has been my hobby/passion my whole life, I’ve been shooting for 25 years, I shot competitively for 10 years, I’ve been a firearm instructor for 10 years, and have been lucky to have a lifelong mentor with an impressive service record. If you’d like to get an idea of my skill level with firearms check out the Tier 1 Concealed Three-Sevens Drill as I’m a coin holder. Hopefully that shed some light on things 👍
@@NightwoodGuns It does shed some light, thank you! Just FYI, it's not braggadocious to give a little of your credentials...especially when you (good for you) look so young! 😎👍
@@007Chancellor Thank you, I appreciate your comments 👍
Lol. I know you're not, but I did get here from a shill video of this gun ;)
Lol! In all fairness, that’s most of guntube 😂
@@NightwoodGuns TBF indeed. But I did get algo'd here from s00mbody in particular's channel. =)
@@m4rvinmartian Ah yes, one of the m00st prevalent shills on YT 😅
You’re 100% right on the break in process. My vbob was a train wreck. Mine ended up having to go back to the factory
That can certainly happen when the tolerances end up a bit on the “tight” side. Did it run perfect when you got it back, though?
@@NightwoodGuns it ran better. Ended up getting a Wilson combat extractor put in the gun. Was 99% after that
I guess it varies from gun to gun but I bought a new specialist in 45 earlier this year. I have around 1000 rounds through it so far with zero malfunctions. That’s hollow points, fmj round nose and even flap tips.
Goood choice for the 1 1911 to keep. I woudld go o far a to make it
Hey are those ambidextrous safeties that are having issues with wobbling new manufacture DW parts or EGW safeties?
New DW parts
It's gorgeous 😍
😎👍
Have you ever had any experience with The Specialist in 10mm?
Nope. I have experience with other 10mm 1911s, but I’ve heard good things about the specialist in 10.
@@NightwoodGuns That’s cool. I’ll probably end up getting one eventually. The 2 big guns I want in 10mm from CZ/Dan Wesson are the Specialist, and the TS2 racing green, but the latter is just me dreaming of how awesome it would be if they made one. 😅
A TS2 in 10mm would be awesome! They would definitely have to beef it up for it survive a steady diet of 10mm though. I feel like the slide stop would break every 50 rounds, lol. Until then, the Specialist is a great choice. 👍
@@NightwoodGuns Indeed, maybe we’ll see Dan Wesson resurrect their Double-stack line now that Springfields jumped into the Double-stack game with the Prodigy.
Fingers crossed! That would be incredible!
Where did u get the gun belt ?
So you think you're cool because you have a Dan Wesson. You are!
Haha! Exactly! 😎
Have you tried Prodigy yet and is it any good.?
My buddy got one, but it has been nothing but problems. Seems like they are beta-testing on consumers. I would hold off for now.
@@NightwoodGuns Maybe they need brake in period, 500 rounds. I'll wait to see more reviews. 👍
@@aarsenalfan When STIs (and Staccatos) first came out, they had issues that needed to be ironed out as well. Double stack 1911s are challenging to build reliably. I'd definitely give it some time, I'm sure they'll figure it out.
@@NightwoodGuns Can't sell my kidney for Staccato, I like beer to much. 🤙🍺
There is nothing like a 1911 have to admit i am biased to the 911 having driven them for years
One of my favorite pistols 👍
One of my favorite cars
@@mlrable 😂👍
I find it funny A lot of things they add on 1911's now that jacks up the price I think Is ugly ass fuck. lol
Ugly, but practical. But yes, you are correct. You can get a bare bones Tisas 1911 for less that $400.
What? You think you're some kinda brawler style??
What an absolute legend. 🙌 First one to get it!
🐸✝️
👍
I've got 5 and never had 1 single issue and NONE have 500 thru them❤
Very nice 👍
👍
😎👍
Just beautiful
Also you have to check out the platypus 1911 things pretty cool and takes Glock mags
I’m about 9 weeks into my 14 week lead time 😎👍
@@NightwoodGuns there you go haha I want to get an order in soon. So many colors and options.
I figured I would only own one 1911 and I wanted a decent one and settled on the Sig Select 1911. I pulled it out while watching your review. In some odd way it felt like a competition. I found myself saying I have that too and so is my Sig and my checkering is nicer...LOL. I like the size and shape of your Wesson's safety better. This 1911 has really become a favorite to shoot which unfortunately means there will be more 1911s in my future. Probably a upscale fancy 2011 and a very basic Rock Island-type model. Can you work on the 45ACP ammo pricing.
I had two Sig 1911s and enjoyed them both! Definitely underrated, but purists don’t consider them “true 1911s” lol! I think you should definitely get a fancy 2011, it will truly spoil you. And I wish I could lower the price of 45acp and 10mm… I miss shooting those fun calibers…
I just purchased this handgun yesterday …paperwork cleared and I bought it home today. Very helpful video as I just finished reading the manual but missed the part about a break in. That’s fine with me my EDC is currently a Kimber Ultra Carry II and had a 500 round break in period 100 rounds at at a time …and actually should have been 50 😅 in my opinion but now it runs great.
So far I’m loving the fit and finish of this handgun. I happened upon the opportunity to purchase new at what I thought was an excellent price and just pounced on the opportunity. I’m totally not sorry and cannot wait to take it to the range. Unlike my usual approach to purchasing a pistol I’m doing my Research AFTER I got the gun. 😅and indeed I’m totally not disappointed there either as the more I learn the more pleased I am with my purchase. Still given a choice I’d prefer this pistol in a carry size. But I’m loving it so much I might just have to strap it on anyway.
Absolutely, great review and thanks for sharing.
You purchased a superb firearm! They are hard to find right now, so that was a smart choice! Welcome to the Dan Wesson club! 🙌 Glad you enjoyed the video 😁
Just bought a Dan Wesson Razorback. Haven't shot it yet but plan to soon.
Very nice! The Razorback is great, congrats! 🙌
I love the tri-tone look of the Kodiak 10mm.
Have never had an issue with reliability in my specialist, didn’t do the break in cleaning to spec. But do have rusty hammer. Got thousands of rounds through it. Superb pistol.
Good to hear! 👍
Love s&w and also the Springfields. Would like to know what you think of the new Springfield trp if you have seen one. (Definitely a direct competitor to the railed specialist with tan or black options)
Well, I collect 1911 I have 24 of them and I do love my para ordinance,ruger, and RIA. Dan Weston makes a superior gun. I would love to own one just incredibly expensive for my budget. Glad to see you in Arizona. I am also would love to get together and actually shoot with you one day. But with that being said, my Kimber ultra carry 2 is my EDC.
Very nice! Sounds like a great collection! 👍
Bro you own 24 1911’s? Maybe sell some and buy a nicer one like the Dan Wesson you want. I own 5, and they’re my favorite guns to shoot because I got rid of my cheaper guns and bought nice 1911’s. I’ve owned a couple cheap 1911’s and trust me nice ones are worth the money. My shittiest 1911 now is my Colt and I hardly ever shoot the thing now because it’s inferior to the others
I traded a FN tactical 45ACP for a DW Black Specialist and it’s all that you say. It’s heavy, mine is 2 1/2 pounds with an empty magazine.
Very nice! I’d say that was a smart trade! 👍
I love my MP7!!! Thanks for the great vid!!! EDIT: derp! I meant PM7 lol!
👍
FQQLs and GUNs are a very bad combination.
I have the A2, wanted something nice for a retirement gift and chose it over the $5000 guns. Nighthawk, Les, Wilson all have dork names stamped on them. Special Forces, CQB, tactical whatever…no thanks. Dan Wesson keeps all the stamping to a minimum. I didn’t know about the break in, it’s a pleasure gun, I never go over 100 rds per use and it gets a half hour cleaning each session. The trigger is lighter than my staccato p, but the reset is longer(most people can’t notice it).
Very nice! I’d say you made an excellent choice!
If you think that thing is better than a higher tier SA, you’ve never held a Custom Shop Professional 😁
That’s fair. But the SA Custom Shop doesn’t exist anymore. And the quality went to crap in the couple of years leading up to its discontinuation.
I built mine. It has a Colt Commander slide, a lot of no-longer-available Pachmayr parts, a Caspian titanium frame, a Bar-Sto barrel, and several Metalform magazines. The thing shoots like a dream and is dead on target with 230-grain ball ammo. You can have your Dan Wesson, although I'm sure it's a good gun.
Nothing like a handmade 1911 👍
I was able to get a used 2002 point man 45 major earlier this year. It has been a project, it was not well loved. Finally got it were it does not ftf or fte. I feel my bul armory and magnum research made by bul armory are much better 1911’s, better triggers and accuracy. Maybe the cz dan wessons are better fit.
I definitely prefer the CZ Dan Wessons. Bul and MR definitely make quality 1911s, but I personally think that modern Dan Wessons are a step up. 👍
The Dan Wesson Specialist is my sunday weekend bbq gun
Very nice! 😎👍
The beginning of this Dan Wesson Valor review is comically bad. But, at the 2:35 mark, he makes a nice recovery and gives a thorough review of the pistol!
Actually...it's the Dan Wesson Specialist.
I’m glad you stuck with it 😂
Love all my 1911s, I have nothing but colts except for the ww2 Rands and Ithacas. I enjoy the 45s and my 9mm ones but normally grab a 38 super
The old Colts can be VERY nice. I had a Colt Officer’s model that I loved, but the recoil spring plug blew out of it twice, haha. I’m not so sure about modern production Colts, but the old ones I’ve handled are very smooth. I’m going to have to pick up a 38 super one of these days 👍
@@NightwoodGuns my favorite is a 1981 standard govt model in 38 super but I picked up the Gold cup trophy and the National match for my regular plinkers, I have an officers model in 45acp and bought a complete commander top half and made my own CCO because I hated the reverse plug and short barrel of the officers model
Those are some great 1911s! Gold Cup Trophy and National Match are two of the best ever made 👍
@@NightwoodGuns I agree, I have both models in 9mm and 38 super ,the national match ones are a beautiful blued and the gold cup trophies are stainless, I went with the regular model trophies vs the trophy lite because I had to have the 25lpi front strap checkering and the steel checked mainspring housing with the magwell
Good call! 25 lpi is perfect and the steel checkered mainspring housing is a must! 👍
Do the commander sizes have smaller grips or just the shorter length of barrel?
Commander is just the shorter length of barrel 👍 Full size grip.
I own the "Specialist" it is my favorite.
Great minds think alike, as they say! 👍
Since you bring up Kimber and Springfield Armory, how do you feel about their products? Any preference of one over the other?
I’d go Springfield over Kimber, just don’t be surprised if you have to send it back to the factory at least once to have it run 100% 👍
Yea if you’re going to buy a Springfield I suggest saving for the TRP Operator. Super solid gun, however it’s the same price as the Dan Wesson in this video
@@NightwoodGuns At this point, I think I'm going to go with Bul Armory.
Any opinion on the Bul Armory 1911s? They seem to be well-specc'ed and well made for the price.
Great bang for the buck 👍
@@NightwoodGuns I'm wondering about quality and long-term reliability. They only have a 1-year warranty.
@@tenrec Yep, the 1-year warranty is always a hang-up with Bul. I can say that it is probably the best 1911 in its price range. There are occasional and uncommon QC issues, but they would pop up within the first couple hundred rounds.
@@NightwoodGuns I actually spoke with their customer service rep today and I expressed my concerns about the 1-year warranty. He basically said that they didn't feel the need to offer a longer warranty. From a customer's standpoint, I wish they WOULD feel the need!
How often do you need to change the main spring on a Dan Wesson?
The main spring should last practically forever. 50,000-100,000 rounds in most cases. But I'd replace it for safety at around 25,000 rounds just to be sure. Recoil spring usually needs a change in the 3,000 round range.
Thank you for such a great review. I have a question and I can’t seem to find an answer anywhere. I put a deposit down on a new Dan Wesson Specialist 45ACP today. Never owned a DW. Here’s my question, if I try to engage the thumb safety when there is no bullet in the chamber and the hammer isn’t cocked, is it normal for the thumb safety to slightly travel, click and stay slightly up as if it’s engaged? I was confused because it seemed to feel like it slightly locked the thumb safety. I’ve tried to make the thumb safety budge on a Springfield and a Sig, but the safety didn’t move. I’m hoping the gun I’m buying isn’t defective.
I’m glad you enjoyed the video! That’s totally normal, nothing to worry about 👍 I’ve had that on many 1911s including a Sig 1911 and a couple of Springfields. My Dan Wesson does it as well and it is 100% If there does happen to be anything wrong with your Dan Wesson, they will take care of you. Buy with confidence 👍
@@NightwoodGuns Oh, ok. Your response made me feel better about the purchase. I can’t thank you enough.
Happy to put your mind at ease. The Dan Wesson Specialist is the best “production” 1911 that money can buy. You will be VERY happy with it 👍 And like I said, if you have any issues, DW will take care of you.
I have 5. 1911s. I do have a Dan Wesson, I love it no issues
The Dan Wesson is my favorite production 1911. I’m glad to hear you like yours, as well 👍
“or a sword on your back”😂
😂👍
I think that buying a used Springfield Vickers Tactical 1911 would be just as good as buying a used Specialist, and the small parts might be better, but I’m no 1911 guru.
I have both the specialist and the Springfield Vickers elite master class 1911. I’ll be honest….the Dan wesson is much better and refined. The Vickers is nicely blended and looks very good but the Dan wins in ergonomics and overall quality.
I would love a Specialist but trying to find one or any Dan Wesson is an impossible task. I have major gun shops in my area. Some carry Ed Brown, Nighthawk, Kimber, Staccato, etc. And they are in stock. They are DW dealers but none of my four dealers carry them and say they can't order them. I never see one at the range. And yet, they get fabulous reviews. I've called them and they aren't helpful at all and tell me to go the a dealer. So far, I would say they make a really good product, have crappy customer service, and don't seem the slightest bit interested in selling firearms. For these reasons, I would stay away from them. There are plenty of good alternatives.
There are several Dan Wessons on Gunbroker 👍 They are just having trouble keeping up with demand right now. They sell them as fast as they can make them without sacrificing quality control. But I definitely understand how frustrating it can be to struggle to find the gun you want when you have the money ready to spend.
Hahaha 😆 badass intro
🔫 🔫 🔫 🔫
😂👍
@Nightwood Guns that was a whole lot of #BCE ...... Big Caliber Energy lol
@@Rebel8MAC What can I say? I don’t like shooting twice, lol! 😂
@@NightwoodGuns 💯 🤣
I just bought a Dan Wesson Specialist is 9mm. I am looking forward to many years of enjoyment!
Congrats on the Dan Wesson Specialist! 🙌🙌🙌
How much??
This is a very well done video. Great presentation. And yes I own a DW ecp, it has been flawless, and I plan on getting a full size at some point. I just seem to really be attracted to Dan Wessons.
Dan Wessons are excellent 😎👍