Читать книгу Gun Digest 2011 онлайн

362 страница из 495

Smith & Wesson entered the 1911 field in 2003 and markets an extensive line, including variants of the full-size SW1911.

THE NEW CENTURY

With the flurry of interest in the 1911 that had exploded in the closing decades at the end of the 20th century, the production of 1911-style pistols had been spread among a large and growing number of different companies Colt was no longer the primary producer. Three relatively new companies — Kimber, Springfield and Para-Ordnance — vied for that position. Kimber advertised their company as “first in the number of 1911 pistols made and sold.” Not to be outdone, Springfield claimed “the greatest selection of 1911 pistols.” Para-Ordnance introduced features that set its offerings apart.

As the new century began, Colt again fell on hard times. In the year 2000, the company discontinued most of its handgun line. Only the Single Action Army and the 1911 were left. The 1911 was offered in 45 caliber only. Within a few years, however, Colt’s fortunes improved.