An Insult to JB Or A Very Functional Pistol?
I know. Sacrilege. Abomination. End Times.
That was the general reaction of 1911 fans when I mentioned I was reviewing a 1911 semi-automatic from Rock River Arms (RRA)—one made with a polymer frame.
I even heard, “That’s not what John Browning had in mind at all!”
All due respect, John Browning didn’t have polymer on hand. So, who knows what he might have done with this adaptable material had it been available. And other dramas aside, when the Poly RRA 1911 arrived I spent no time trying to gauge JB’s potential reaction. Instead, my focus was on two questions: 1) Does the pistol work? and 2) What might be the pros and cons of having a polymer frame on this particular pistol?
Mr. Browning’s masterpiece taken the polymer route, from Rock River Arms.
The short answers are the Poly RRA 1911 functions very well, and, while the polymer lightens up this 1911 compared to other all-metal versions, I really can’t tell much of a difference between this model and the many other all-metal versions I’ve used.
Poly aside, the Poly RRA 1911 has mainly standard 1911 features, including a five-inch chrome-moly barrel with a 1:16 LH twist rate, a traditional beavertail grip safety, and an extended-thumb safety. It has dovetail-style sights and comes with two eight-round magazines. The Parkerized finish is black; the skeletonized trigger is an RRA aluminum speed trigger.
Actually, reviews of the Poly RRA 1911 first appeared in 2013 after a launch of said pistol by Rock River. And then…pistol reviews and comments about the pistol disappeared. Sources tell me that RRA shelved production of the pistol for reasons not yet disclosed, and essentially re-launched the Poly RRA 1911 this year. The RRA website lists the pistol as, “In stock! Ready for shipment!”
In stock it was, and I recently received a new-in-the-box Poly RRA 1911 and headed for the range.
During my first session with the pistol, one problem cropped up almost immediately. I had a great deal of trouble getting my eyes on the sights. Front and rear sights are black, as is the top of the slide, and all that black made it hard for my rapidly-aging eyes to pick up a good sight picture.
So, I did a McCombie Field Fix (MFF) on the pistol. I took a Birchwood Casey Shoot-N-C Target, the kind that sticks onto your target holder and prints a nice fluorescent-edged green hole when hit, and scissored out a thin slice on that bright green, plasticky paper. I trimmed the slice, removed the backing, and pressed the sticky side of the paper to the front sight. And it stuck!
A McCombie Field Fix done on the front sight, with an assist from Birchwood Casey.
I could’ve dabbed on a little sight paint instead. Had I owned the RRA Poly 1911. But the pistol was only on loan, and, not wanting to potentially disfigure this nice handgun, I opted for the MFF Approach. Now, I could quickly and easily pick up that front sight, and my groups shrunk accordingly.
For my accuracy, testing, and chronographing, I used Aguila Ammunition’s standard 45 Auto, with a 230-grain FMJ bullet, Browning Ammunition’s 45 AUTO Performance Target round with 230-grain FMJ bullets, and Federal Premium’s HST self-defense loads firing a 230-grain jacketed-hollow point.
I didn’t have time for the three to four range sessions I prefer when evaluation a handgun. I like to shoot offhand from seven to ten yards, from a rest at ten yards, and then with a rest at 20 to 25 yards.
Time being tight, I decided to do all my shooting at ten yards offhand. I figured whatever accuracy I could get standing at ten yards, a ten-yard resting group would be tighter, and whatever I could do at the ten offhand, I could more or less replicate with a rest at 20 yards.
For accuracy testing, McCombie shot the Poly RRA 1911 offhand at ten yards.
Of the three brands of ammunition I ran through the RRA Poly 1911, the Federal HST self-defense rounds scored the best five-shot groups, with an average of just 1.25-inches and a top group at 1.16-inches. My last group with the HST was only four rounds—the last four HST’s I had left—and they pegged a really nice .911-inch group.
Federal’s HST self-defense rounds scored the best five-shot groups, averaging just 1.25” with this top group at 1.16”
The Browning FMJ’s did well, with an average group of 1.37-inches, and a four-shot cluster that pegged just .788-inches. For whatever reasons, the Aguila and the RRA Poly did not mix well, averaging 2.33-inch groups, with some right at 3-inches.
Trigger pull averaged a crisp 3.5-pounds, as measured by my Lyman Digital Trigger pull Gauge. The trigger reset quickly, and follow-up shots were near instantaneous.
The poly side panels on the grip were well-checkered and provided plenty of traction. Aggressively checkered and slightly raised from the grip, the front strap is really the anchor point for the shooting hand; my three fingers under the trigger guard and over the front strap kept the pistol in place and provided a steady back pressure to keep the grip safety engaged.
The aggressively checked front strap on the Poly RRA 1911 helps provide a very solid grip.
Plus, the grip is over-molded and slightly larger than a standard 1911, providing more grip surface.
The extended-thumb safety was tight, however. So tight, I couldn’t initially push it up and in place with my shooting hand thumb. It did loosen up as I used the pistol and the safety, and at the end of my shooting session, I could move it into “SAFE” with my shooting thumb.
The extended-thumb safety was quite tight at first but functioned better and better with use.
Given this 1911’s polymer frame (with steel inserts), the pistol weighs just a shade over 32 ounces. Most other steel-framed 1911’s with five-inch barrels come in at 39 ounces. Those seven ounces won’t make much of a difference for general shooting, but it’s a nice weight reduction for those who carry a 1911, open or concealed.
Compared to other full-sized 1911’s, I found the RRA Poly 1911 to be just slightly top and front-heavy, even with a loaded eight-round magazine. This didn’t affect accuracy and might actually have helped keep the muzzle down a bit for quick follow-up shots.
Since it does have a steel slide, one has to wonder if the poly frame might wear out faster or unevenly compared to the steel-framed 1911. I saw no signs of wear on the poly frame of the RRA Poly 1911, but I only put about 250 rounds through mine. It would be instructive to disassemble and examine a standard RRA steel-framed 1911 to the Poly RRA after 1,000 rounds and 2,000 rounds were run through each, to see how the wear compares to the frames of both pistols.
Until such tests are done and show or suggest a problem, I’ll recommend the Poly RRA 1911 as a first-rate 1911, especially for anyone looking for a lighter version of Mr. Browning’s masterpiece.
Yes, the Poly RRA 1911’s are in stock now.
Ballistics
|
Load |
Average MZ Velocity (fps)* |
Average 5-Shot Group, 10 Yards Offhand |
Best Group, 10 Yds Offhand |
|
Aguila 230gr FMJ |
749 |
2.33” |
1.95” |
|
Browning 239gr FMK |
844 |
1.37” |
1.26” |
|
Federal HST 230gr JHP |
849 |
1.25” |
1.16” |
*Velocities measured with a PACT Professional-XP Chronograph HYPERLINK “https://pact.com” https://pact.com, 10 shots average, with muzzle six feet from unit.
Specs: Poly RRA 1911
Caliber: .45 ACP
Barrel: 5-inch Chrome Moly Barrel, 1:16 LH Twist
Frame: Polymer Frame and Mainspring Housing, with Steel Frame Inserts
Slide: Steel
Trigger: RRA Aluminum Speed
Hammer: Commander-Style
Safeties: Beavertail Grip and Extended-Thumb
Finish: Black, Parkerized
Grips: RRA Over Molded Grips
Sights: RRA Dovetail Front and Rear; rear is windage adjustable
Weight: 32 Ounces
Length: ??
Includes: Two 8-Round Magazines, Lock, RRA Case, and RRA Warranty
MSRP $1,025.00
Visit Rock River Arms to learn more about theie Polymer-Framed 1911 by clicking HERE.
WHile not a polymer fan boy, I have no issue using polymer framed weapons, I however used to dislike the feel of the grip shape on may of them, I prefered the feel and shape of the 1911, I would be willing to give the poly framed 1911 a chance but find the price point a bit steep for my own tastes. As for the J.W.B. angle I truly believe had the material been available he would have used it.
I just have no interest in a plastic 1911 and think this is not going to be a great success. Why bother?
I own plastic guns, I also happen to like 1911 guns because they are big badass heavy metal have great triggers and are just fun. Even my wife who never thought she would like something big and heavy likes shooting my 1911 due to it don’t jump out of her hand when it goes off like my light weight plastic guns do.
Sigh… Why do 1911 manufacturers continue to introduce models without accessory rails? I don’t think any serious operator would choose a weapon without an accessory rail on it for operational use, these days.
It used to be that RRA was the “Kimber” of the AR world. So I’m actually not surprised at the price point.
I do find it interesting that most of these “price Nazis” are dogging this thing out. Especially when I’m sure a few of them probably rock a $2000 Kimber for a carry gun that could potentially become evidence.
As far as this piece is concerned, there are many options out there that try to “modernize” the 1911. Some better than others. Would I buy any of them? No. But that’s just me. I’m sure there’s a niche for this iron just like people who found the new caniks appealing. To each his own.
On price point. RRA not to be confused with RIA.
RRA is a high end 1911 manufacturer.
Thank you for the article, it allowed for some venting and pent up emotions to regurgitate up from the bowels of the J.M.B. crowd.
I agree the price point is way north of reality.
Uh, NO !
I bought my Colt Lightweight commander for about $200 less than that out the door. The map on plastic guns has gone way up since the last I looked. Guess this oldtimer will stick with metal and metal-alloy pistols.
BUL Transmark have made a Polymer framed 1911 for at least 25 years as far as I am aware, and I have never heard of any problems with them. The RRAs will also last long, I’m guessing. They do seem like a nicely made product. Should be nice for someone who prefers carrying a 1911.
I agree that over $1,000 for a poly frame gun from RRA is too outrageous to consider, when the same company offers very affordable METAL guns for a reasonable price point.
Nothing new about it either. I did an article on the Israeli BUL 20 years ago.
After all this time it’s getting very annoying that all the naysayers of Poly guns INSIST on showing their ignorance by calling them ‘plastic’.
And don’t bother B.S.ing me with the actual chemical makeup, we ALL know that using that term is meant to be derisive. I find it childish. Just as the Poly fan’s are childish berating the fine 1911.
I’m neither a fan nor a detractor of the Poly guns, they have their place just as wood, steel and titanium do.
And frankly, I believe that J.B. would have used Poly had it been available at the time.
He was cutting edge, and cutting edge is the one time we can use the term ‘progressive’ and be spot on.
I dunno about this.
Similar to other comments, not seeing the price justification for a 7 oz weight saving.
I carry one of three .45’s I own lately. Kimber Tac Ultra II (which was perfect OOB, I only added Trijicons). Kimber Pro Carry II (bought used, hot-rodded with Wilson parts – only frame, slide & barrel are factory). And a Springfield XDE (while not a 1991, a nice compact carry in GODS caliber).
I just tried to work on a friends Kimber Ultra Ten II – plastic POS. FWIW – it DID NOT make me a fan of polymer 1911 pistols.
My $.02
I have a full size Kimber Stainless Ten II that you couldn’t get me to sell. Perfect weight, perfect trigger, holds 13 rounds, and is extremely accurate. I let a standard 1911 owner shoot it at the range one day and he couldn’t believe he could doubletap accurately with a .45, but he did. Everyone’s experiences are different but I’m glad there are naysayers out there because I paid $500 for mine thanks to them.
A thousand bucks for a plastic gun! Wtf! You can buy a kimber for that kind of money. Isn\’t rock river arms more of a budget oriented gun company? Who in their right mind would spend $1,025+fees for a plastic replica of a legend? Now if we were in the price point of $350/425ish that would be more acceptable and maybe worth buying. My kimber only cost me $850. To me, and I\’m sure many other 1911 lovers, its unnatural to see something so classically perfect in every way be housed in a plastic frame. One of the nice things about a steel or aluminum 1911, if you run out of bullets it makes for a fine club! Plastic just doesn\’t have the density to collapse an orbital socket like steel. Just sayin… if this abomination of a grave stirrer came with visible sights, (or even night sights) and a crimson trace laser grip it still shouldn\’t cost so much $. I\’m having a really hard time justifying why/how the people at RRA came to the price point they did? Did they look at most common 1911 prices and just try to squeeze themselves in? Do they think the glock fanboys will get chubbed up because its \”polymer\” sig sauer was smart and made a polymer pistol priced at polymer pistol prices. A sig 226 fetches $1000 all day, an sp2022 is about $450. Polymer is supposed to be less expensive.
Way too much money. To make matters worse, it looks awful. Epic fail!
I was excited when I was this but all the air left the balloon when I saw the price.
A thousand bucks for a plastic gun! Wtf! You can buy a kimber for that kind of money. Isn’t rock river arms more of a budget oriented gun company? Who in their right mind would spend $1,025+fees for a plastic replica of a legend? Now if we were in the price point of $350/425ish that would be more acceptable and maybe worth buying. My kimber only cost me $850. To me, and I’m sure many other 1911 lovers, its unnatural to see something so classically perfect in every way be housed in a plastic frame. One of the nice things about a steel or aluminum 1911, if you run out of bullets it makes for a fine club! Plastic just doesn’t have the density to collapse an orbital socket like steel. Just sayin… if this abomination of a grave stirrer came with visible sights, (or even night sights) and a crimson trace laser grip it still shouldn’t cost so much $. I’m having a really hard time justifying why/how the people at RRA came to the price point they did? Did they look at most common 1911 prices and just try to squeeze themselves in? Do they think the glock fanboys will get chubbed up because its “polymer” sig sauer was smart and made a polymer pistol priced at polymer pistol prices. A sig 226 fetches $1000 all day, an sp2022 is about $450. Polymer is supposed to be less expensive.
MSRP $1,025.00? um no.
The EAA/Tanfoglio polymer 1911 is a viable alternative…AT HALF THE Cost!!!
A poly 1911 is a really cool development, but who is it for?
While some folks do carry a 1911 the vast majority of us carry much smaller and/or higher capacity options originally developed in poly.
I view my 1911’s as excellent range partners – perfect trigger, weight, balance, everything.. even the lower capacity slows ammo consumption.
Personally, It’s not necessary and I wouldn’t burn my gun money stash on one no matter how good it is.
That, and while I’m not a poly snob (own a lot of it, even a Luminox 3001 watch), but there is indeed some sort of blasphemy embedded in a “plastic 1911”.
If someone is going to do something new with poly… I’d start with a poly Colt 25acp for super lightweight summer shorts carry.
Or a altogether newly designed poly 25 similar to the LCP would be great too.