1911 40 CAL for Sale

Quick Look

The 1911 design, created by John Browning in 1911, revolutionized combat sidearms in the 20th century. The .40 caliber variant brings a modern twist to the classic platform, offering a balance between .45 ACP power and 9mm capacity. Today, 1911s chambered in .40 S&W serve niche roles in competition and personal defense circles.

Why It's a Top Choice

• Classic ergonomics with modern .40 S&W performance
• Wide aftermarket parts and gunsmith support
• Single-action trigger offers excellent shot control
• Proven frame design trusted for over a century
• Available in competition-optimized and carry-ready builds

Key Variants

STI 2011 .40

Favored in USPSA Limited Division for its accuracy and high capacity in .40 S&W.

Para Ordnance 1911 .40

Double-stack frame caters to shooters wanting more rounds in a 1911 format.

Rock Island Armory 1911 .40

Budget-friendly option for entry-level target and defensive shooters.

Dan Wesson Valor .40

Premium materials and tight tolerances for serious marksmen and collectors.

EAA Witness 1911 .40

Offered in European-style variants blending tactical looks with tradition.

Competitor Comparison Table

Feature	1911 40 Cal	Glock 22	Sig Sauer P226 .40
MSRP	$600–$2,000+	$600–$700	$900–$1,100
Capacity/Size	8–10 rounds, full-size	15 rounds, full-size	12–15 rounds, full-size
Weight	38–42 oz	25 oz	34 oz
Optics-Ready	Varies by model	On select models	On Legion models
Trigger Type	Single-action	Striker-fired	DA/SA
Notable Pro	Crisp trigger, excellent control	High capacity and light weight	Proven military/police choice
Notable Con	Lower capacity, heavier build	Less refined trigger	Heavier than polymer rivals

Best Use Cases

• USPSA or IDPA competition
• Home defense with manual safety preference
• Historical or modern firearm collection
• Range training and practice
• Personal protection with powerful cartridge

FAQs

Can I use a 1911 .40 cal for competition shooting?

Yes, many models are optimized for USPSA or IDPA, especially in Limited Division using .40 S&W.

What is the typical capacity of a 1911 in .40 S&W?

Standard single-stack models hold 8 rounds, while double-stacks offer up to 14–16 rounds.

How does recoil compare to 9mm or .45 ACP?

.40 S&W recoil is snappier than 9mm but lighter than .45 ACP, especially in all-steel 1911 frames.