Dan Wesson Commander Classic Bobtail Review
This review cross-examines an updated example of America’s favorite pistol, the 1911. Clearly, the Dan Wesson delivers many custom features and high-quality parts at a realistic price point. Like a custom 1911, this pistol was very tight from the factory, and needs to be fired for a few hundred rounds before being considered fully broken in. If you’re looking for a pistol for harsh weather conditions, this probably isn’t the one for you. If good old American nostalgia has you searching for a high-quality 1911 for concealed carry or target shooting, this pistol deserves your attention.
Ammunition
Ammo: .45 ACP
Magazine capacity: 7
Rate of twist: 1:16 in
Dimensions
Weight: 2.1 lbs
Overall Length: 8 in
Barrel Length: 4.3 in
Height: 5.5 in
Width: 1.5 in
Features
Frame: Stainless Steel
Trigger mechanism: Single Action
Sights: Fixed night sights
Safety elements: Manual thumb safety, Grip safety
*The views and opinions expressed in the RHP VideoBlog are those of the authors and producers. Improper handling of a firearm can result in serious bodily injury or death. Treat every firearm as if it were loaded. Always conduct visual and physical verification that the firearm is unloaded before handling. Always practice safety first!*
Posted: December 6th, 2006 under Gun Tests.
Comments: 13
Comments
Comment from Trevenator
Time: December 7, 2006, 11:47 am
Again, liked the review. Had the firearm ever been fired when it was tested? Would like to hear more commentary as to how the features, weight, and price of the 1911 compare to the Glocks, HK’s, Etc. Also would you pay $1706 anywhere else?
Comment from LB
Time: December 7, 2006, 12:23 pm
Nice review guys. I own 2 DW Bobtails (purchased from OnPoint I might add) and agree 100% with your take. Excellent pistols for the money, a real bargain for the quality of materials and fit.
Both of the pistols I own needed some break-in before they functioned well when dirty. Some extrator tuning was needed as well to cure some issues with brass ejecting into the shooters face. Dan Wesson addressed these issues and offering excellent customer service, standing behind their firearms 100%.
Thanks for the review.
Comment from Ken
Time: December 9, 2006, 2:45 pm
Nice review and seems that for the money this may be a good option for the guy who does not want to spend $1500 on a 1911. Video quality of the review was excellent. Great Job!!!
Comment from Erik
Time: December 18, 2006, 2:32 pm
Excellent point Ken! That’s definitely how this pistol came across to me. Considering the quality and materials of the components, I think this pistol is comparable to some of the 1911s from Les Baer. In fact, for my money, I think I’d go with the Dan Wesson and spend the rest on a quality holster, Wilson Combat magazines, and lots of ammo!
Comment from Drew
Time: December 21, 2006, 9:19 am
Great review guys. Nice level of detail and a very reasonable assessment of the good and bad.
Comment from Joel Sanders
Time: January 21, 2007, 4:58 pm
I love my D.W. classic commander but, The ejector sends shells in my face, I changed the ejector and spring twic.Still
I get hit in the face. other than that of the 40 -1911’s I’ve shot this ones the very best. (I still don’t know what to do about the ejector problems.
J.Sanders Dayton,Ohio
Comment from Manuel Hernandez
Time: February 10, 2007, 6:36 pm
Excellent rewies guys.I would like to buy a 1911.I have two choices.first the Spriengfield Armory Classsic Stainless Steel(4″barrel),and the dan wesson comander bobtail.Wich one you would recomend?.I will be waiting for your answer.i will buy the one you think is the best…Carlos
Comment from Evan
Time: February 10, 2007, 7:38 pm
For the money, the Dan Wesson is your best bet. The unit used in this review is actually for sale in On Point’s clearance section for only $800. (regular price: $854)
http://www.onpointsupply.com/cart.php?target=product&product_id=62761&category_id=1897
Thanks for your kind words! Stay On Point!
Comment from Greg George
Time: February 24, 2007, 6:53 pm
Hey Guys,
Do you still have the Dan Wesson Commander Classic Bobtail .45 for $800?? If so call me…daytime number 800-875-1292 Ext. 3. I’ll make arrangement to buy it with you and ship to my FFL dealer in Georgia,
Best Regards,
Greg George
Comment from Marc
Time: February 26, 2007, 12:33 pm
Phenomenal review guys! I was actually leaning toward a much more expensive “bobtail” style .45, but your review has me now seriously considering the Dan Wesson.
Do you have anymore of the Commander Bobtails for $800?
Thanks and best regards,
Marc
Comment from Joel Sanders
Time: March 16, 2007, 9:53 am
Still having trouble with the shell casings hitting me in the head. Changed the extractor ,Spring 3 times still it isn’t working correctly got any Ideas email me at allsigs@aol.com
the guns to nice in all other areas to sell.
Comment from Erik
Time: March 16, 2007, 10:10 am
Considering the swaps you’ve already done haven’t helped alleviate this problem, there’s only thing I can think of. It would seem that the ejector’s contact point with the shell needs to be angled in such a fashion to change the ejection path. This could easily be done with a file, but I am not sure about what angle you would need. I’ve never had to do that particular upgrade. I would check with the guys over at 1911forum.com to see if someone might know the proper reshaping to eject to the side rather than straight back. Good Luck!
Trackback from Jessie
Time: January 17, 2008, 1:27 am
Jessie
Thanks for the info. By the way, I am a big fan of your site. Keep up the great work.
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