5 Best 1911 9mm Double Stack

The 1911 pistol, designed by John Moses Browning, has been a staple in the firearms world for over a century. Originally chambered in .45 ACP, the 1911 has been adapted to various calibers, including the 9mm Luger. The 9mm double-stack 1911 offers a unique blend of the classic 1911 design with the higher magazine capacity of modern pistols. Here's an in-depth look at the 5 best 1911 9mm double stack pistols available, along with their features, benefits, and what makes them stand out.

The importance of the 1911 design cannot be overstated. Its reliability, accuracy, and ergonomic design have made it a favorite among shooters for generations. The adaptation of this design to accept double-stack magazines, significantly increasing the ammunition capacity, has made these pistols highly versatile for both self-defense and competitive shooting. The 9mm Luger cartridge, with its manageable recoil and wide availability, is an excellent choice for those seeking a 1911 that is easy to shoot and maintain.

For those new to the world of firearms, understanding the terminology and technology behind these pistols can seem daunting. However, the concept of a double-stack magazine is straightforward: it allows for more ammunition to be carried in the pistol, making it more practical for situations where high capacity is beneficial. The 1911 9mm double stack combines this advantage with the proven reliability and shootability of the 1911 platform, making it an attractive option for many shooters.

Introduction to the 1911 9mm Double Stack

The 1911 9mm double stack is not just a variation of the classic 1911; it represents a significant evolution in pistol design, blending tradition with modern needs. The double-stack magazine design allows for a higher round count, making these pistols more appealing to those who require or prefer a higher capacity firearm. This feature, combined with the 9mm cartridge's lower recoil compared to the .45 ACP, makes the 1911 9mm double stack an excellent choice for a wide range of shooters, from beginners to seasoned competitors.

Benefits of the 1911 Platform

The 1911 platform offers several benefits that contribute to its enduring popularity. Its single-action trigger is renowned for its crisp, clean break, which many shooters find conducive to accurate shooting. The manual safety, located on the frame, provides an additional layer of security, allowing the pistol to be carried cocked and locked. This feature, combined with the pistol's slim profile, makes it an excellent choice for concealed carry, despite the double-stack magazine's increased width.

Top 5 1911 9mm Double Stack Pistols

STI International DVC Limited: The STI DVC Limited is a high-performance pistol designed with competitive shooters in mind. It features a 5-inch bull barrel, a tactical rail for accessory mounting, and a unique frame design that accommodates a double-stack magazine without feeling overly bulky. The pistol's accuracy and reliability make it a favorite among competitors.
Springfield Armory EMP: The Springfield Armory EMP (Enhanced Micro Pistol) is a compact 1911 designed for concealed carry. Despite its smaller size, it manages to incorporate a double-stack magazine, albeit with a slightly reduced capacity compared to full-size models. Its ergonomic design and manageable recoil make it an excellent choice for self-defense.
Wilson Combat EDC X9: The Wilson Combat EDC X9 is a masterpiece of modern pistol design, blending the classic 1911 aesthetic with cutting-edge materials and features. It boasts a 15-round magazine capacity, a 4-inch barrel, and Wilson Combat's renowned attention to detail and quality. This pistol is designed for everyday carry, offering a perfect balance of size, capacity, and shootability.
Dan Wesson Elite Series: Dan Wesson's Elite Series offers a range of 1911 pistols, including models chambered in 9mm with double-stack magazines. These pistols are known for their exceptional fit and finish, accurate barrels, and reliable performance. The Elite Series is highly customizable, allowing shooters to tailor their pistol to their specific needs and preferences.
Para USA Elite Tac: The Para USA Elite Tac is a tactical-oriented 1911 that incorporates a double-stack magazine into its design. It features a 5-inch barrel, a Picatinny rail for mounting lights or lasers, and an ambidextrous safety. The pistol's durability and high capacity make it suitable for both competitive shooting and tactical applications.

Choosing the Right Pistol

Choosing the right 1911 9mm double stack pistol depends on several factors, including intended use, personal preference, and budget. For competitive shooters, pistols like the STI DVC Limited offer unparalleled performance. For those seeking a pistol for self-defense, models like the Springfield Armory EMP or Wilson Combat EDC X9 provide a balance of size, capacity, and shootability. It's essential to handle and shoot a pistol before purchase to ensure it fits comfortably in the hand and meets individual shooting needs.

Final Thoughts

The 1911 9mm double stack represents a significant evolution in pistol design, offering shooters the best of both worlds: the classic 1911 design with the higher capacity of modern pistols. Whether for competitive shooting, self-defense, or simply the joy of shooting, these pistols have something to offer. With their unique blend of tradition and innovation, it's no wonder they've become increasingly popular among firearms enthusiasts.

1911 9mm Double Stack Image Gallery

What is the primary advantage of a 1911 9mm double stack pistol?

The primary advantage is the combination of the classic 1911 design with a higher magazine capacity, thanks to the double-stack magazine.

Which 1911 9mm double stack pistol is best for concealed carry?

The Springfield Armory EMP is highly regarded for its compact size and manageable recoil, making it an excellent choice for concealed carry.

Are 1911 9mm double stack pistols reliable?

Yes, when properly maintained and fed with quality ammunition, 1911 9mm double stack pistols are known for their reliability and durability.

We hope this comprehensive guide to the 5 best 1911 9mm double stack pistols has provided valuable insights and information for those considering purchasing one of these exceptional firearms. Whether you're a seasoned shooter or just starting your journey, the 1911 9mm double stack offers a unique combination of tradition, innovation, and performance that's hard to find elsewhere. Feel free to share your thoughts, ask questions, or recommend your favorite 1911 9mm double stack pistol in the comments below.