Best Double Stack 1911: Modernizing the 1911?
People still love the 1911, but I find it outdated compared to newer pistols with limited ammo capacity. However, the modern double-stack 1911 offers a better trigger, a great reset, and double the ammo. Recently, there’s been a surge in double-stack 1911 popularity, and I’m all for it. In this best double stack 1911 article, we’ll take a look at the best double stack 1911s that would best fit your shooting needs.
The Difference Between a Double-stack 1911 and a 2011
The terms “double stack 1911” and “2011” are often used interchangeably, but there’s a difference between the two. The term “2011” was trademarked by Staccato, so you might see similar guns referred to as “2011 style.”
The major difference between a 2011 and a double-stack 1911 is the frame and grip. A double-stack 1911 has a one-piece frame and grip, usually made of metal, with a thicker bottom. In contrast, 2011 has a two-piece grip and frame, allowing for more customization and typically featuring a polymer grip for recoil reduction. While most 2011 pistols have double-stack magazines, only a few come with single-stack magazines.
How I Chose the Best Double Stack 1911
As a former Marine, I’ve tested lots of guns like double stack 1911s and 2011s, so I know what makes a good one. When compiling this list, I picked the double stack 1911s carefully based on how well they perform in shooting, reliability, comfort, accuracy, and value. I even got input from industry experts to make sure this list is thorough.
Choosing a double stack 1911 is a personal decision. That’s why I’ve sorted these guns based on what they’re best for, so there’s something for everyone. My aim is to share my experiences and knowledge to help you find the right double stack 1911 quickly.
Along with the double-stack 1911s, I’ve also included some 2011s in this list.
To help you even more, I’ve put together a buyer’s guide. It’ll explain what to consider when picking a double stack 1911. So, keep reading to find the 1911 that’s best for you.
Gun University’s Choices of the Best Double Stack 1911
Best Double Stack 1911
Best Overall Staccato HD P4 |  |
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Best Budget Tisas BR9 |  |
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Best Glock Magazines Stealth Arms Platypus |  |
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Best High End Wilson Combat Division 77 Project 1 |  |
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Best Competition Atlas Gunworks Artemis |  |
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Best CCW Kimber KDS9C Rail |  |
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Best of Specifications
Below is a table of the specs for the best double stack 1911.
| Double Stack 1911 | Caliber | Capacity | Weight (oz) | Barrel Length (in) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Staccato HD P4 | 9mm | 18 | 32.00 | 4 |
| Tisas Carry BR9 Double Stack | 9mm | 17 | 32.64 | 4.25 |
| Stealth Arms Platypus | 9mm | 17+1 | 32.0 | 5.0 |
| Wilson Combat Division 77 Project 1 | 9mm | 18 | 33.8 | 5.0 |
| Atlas Gunworks Artemis | 9mm, 40S&W | 17+1 | 39, 47 | 4.6 |
| Kimber KDS9C Rail | 9mm | 15/18 | 30.3 | 4.09 |
| Rock Island Armory Rock Ultra HC 10mm | 10mm | 16+1 | 40 | 5 |
Best Double Stack 1911
Here is our list for the best double stack 1911
- Staccato HD P4
- Tisas BR9
- Stealth Arms Platypus
- Wilson Combat Division 77 Project 1
- Atlas Gunworks Artemis
- Kimber KDS9C
- Rock Island Armory Rock Ultra HC 10mm
Best Double Stack 1911 – Reviews
Best Overall Staccato P
Staccato P
A feature-filled 2011 (double stack 1911) that deserves its excellent reputation.
- Shootability A-
- Reliability A
- Ergonomics A-
- Accuracy A
- Value C
Our Grade
B+
Reader’s Grade
A-
Based on 7 Reviews
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Staccato HD P4 Specs
- Caliber 9mm
- Capacity 18
- Weight 32 oz
- Barrel Length 4 in
Staccato HD P4 Review
Staccato is the name behind the 2011 platform. They literally own the 2011 trademark and got the concept off the ground. They’ve had a couple of names since then, but they’ve seemed to settle on Staccato. Their latest gun, the HD, brings us several features that Staccato has wanted from 2011 and double-stack 1911 fans for the last few years.
Namely, they ditched the expensive proprietary magazines. Staccato double-stack magazines are pricey and high-quality but expensive. With the HD series, Staccato leaned into the Glock magazine platform. They teamed up with Mec-Gar to produce an 18-round metal magazine, but they can use standard Glock mags of all kinds.
The Staccato HD series is fully ambidextrous with awesome ergonomics and massive controls. The controls are easy to reach and activate. The Staccato HD has all the modern features you’d expect. It’s optics-ready and has a rail for accessories like weapon-mounted lights. The optics system accommodates multiple footprints and uses a Staccato Hoist system, which keeps the optic locked on and mounted securely.
As you’d expect from Staccato, the trigger feels fantastic. It’s insanely light and has a crisp and tactile reset. The trigger is a highlight of the gun, but it’s not the only highlight. The HD series uses a Series 80 drop safe, which makes me feel more comfortable carrying the HD for self-defense or duty use.
The bull barrel helps you hit your target and print tiny little groups, and a red dot only enhances that capability. One range session with the Staccato HD, and you’ll understand why so many professional gunfighters pick Staccato. Downsides? Well, I’m not a fan of optics replacing the rear sight, but that’s all I have.
Staccato HD P4 Pros and Cons
- Soft and Smooth Shooting
- Very Accurate
- Reliable
- Expensive
Staccato P Deals
Best Budget Tisas BR9
Tisas BR9
The BR9 is a budget-ready double-stack 1911 that’s chock-full of modern features.
- Shootability B
- Reliability A
- Ergonomics B
- Accuracy A-
- Value A-
Our Grade
B+
Reader’s Grade
TBD
Based on 0 Reviews
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Tisas Carry BR9
- Caliber 9mm
- Capacity 17
- Weight 32.64 oz
- Barrel Length 4.25 in
Tisas Carry BR9 Review
Tisas gained a name and reputation as a budget Turkish company specializing in 1911s. They’ve evolved and continually improved. They’ve created an excellent reputation for a budget brand, and they expanded into the world of double-stack 1911s with the BR9 series. The Carry BR9 falls into the compact double-stack 1911 world, but it’s not quite subcompact.
The barrel is 4.25 inches long, and the gun uses 17-round magazines, which are Staccato patterns. In fact, the gun is compatible with Series 70 parts from Colt and 2011 parts from Staccato. They made a few smart improvements, like the rear sight, which is a Glock dovetail, which makes it easy to pick various sights and swap things around. The gun is also optics-ready and mounts RMSc footprint optics. Better yet, the stock sights co-witness with most RMSc optics.
The BR9 series has an extended dust cover and a rail for all your light needs. The flat, skeletonized trigger surprised the hell out of me. It’s very light, and I didn’t expect such a nice trigger from an affordable firearm. It retails for less than a grand and offers you a lot of gun for the money.
The gun shoots flat and handles well. The target-crowned barrel helps push it above its weight class and price point. Toss an optic on, and you have a ready and capable pistol for a variety of roles that won’t kill your credit card. We get the basics of a nice semi-custom gun, like an ambidextrous safety, an extended beavertail, and an undercut trigger guard.
Downsides? Well, since it’s based on the Series 70, the gun isn’t drop-safe, which can make it feel restrictive in its purpose. The BR9 can get you into the double-stacked 1911 world for less than a grand, and that’s worth celebrating.
Tisas Carry BR9 Pros and Cons
- Outstanding Accuracy
- Optics Ready
- Suppressor Height Sights
- Not Drop Safe
Tisas Carry BR9 Deals
Best Glock Magazines Stealth Arms Platypus
Stealth Arms Platypus
A fully customizable double stack 1911 that uses Glock 17 magazines.
- Shootability A
- Reliability A
- Ergonomics A
- Accuracy A
- Value B
Our Grade
A-
Reader’s Grade
A+
Based on 6 Reviews
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Stealth Arms Platypus Specs
- Caliber 9mm
- Capacity 17+1
- Weight 32 oz
- Barrel Length 5 in
Stealth Arms Platypus Review
The Stealth Arms Platypus is a double-stack 1911, like no other. It’s got a great name and a smart fix for the usually expensive double-stack 1911 magazines, which can go for $50 to $70. Compared to that, a Glock 17 mag is only about $25. Stealth Arms decided to make their double-stack 1911 utilize Glock 17 magazines. They’re reliable, cheaper, and hold 17 rounds, with access to 21, 24, and 33-round options and even the Magpul D50 drum. Considering these factors, I’ve ranked the Stealth Platypus as the best Glock magazine option for double-stack 1911 guns.
The Stealth Arms Platypus maintains M1911 ergonomics, though with a slight touch of Glock blockiness in its grip. Nonetheless, it offers a classic 1911-style firearm and can be customized from the factory to suit various preferences.
Optics ready? Go for it. Need a rail? Great, pick it. You can pick different barrel lengths, your trigger, sights, a mag funnel, safety, and so much more. You can build out your own Platypus to make it entirely yours. The custom option shop is also a ton of fun to use, and you get wild with it if you so choose.
Blasting away with the Platypus is a ton of fun. It’s smooth shooting, easy handling, and a real tack driver. The ergonomics are exactly what you expect from a 1911, and as always, you get one of the best triggers out there. However, it’s not cheap, and adding extra features increases the cost. There’s also about a 14-week wait time, so it’s far from an impulse purchase.
Stealth Arms Platypus Pros and Cons
- Ultra Customizable
- Cheap magazines
- Reliable Action
- Long Lead Time
Stealth Arms Platypus Deals
Best High End Wilson Combat Division 77 Project 1
Wilson Combat Division 77 Project 1
Project 1 is the future of double stack 1911s
- Shootability A+
- Reliability A+
- Ergonomics A-
- Accuracy A+
- Value D+
Our Grade
A-
Reader’s Grade
TBD
Based on 0 Reviews
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Wilson Combat Division 77 Project 1 Specs
- Caliber 9mm
- Capacity 18
- Weight 33.8 oz
- Barrel Length 5 in
Wilson Combat Division 77 Project 1 Review
If there were a category for the longest name, the Wilson Combat Division 77 Project 1 would certainly win. Division 77 is Wilson’s new high-end custom project lineup, with Project 1 being their very first. From now on, I’m just calling it Project 1. Project 1 is a bit of a mutt compared to other stock standard M1911s. It’s based on Wilson Combat’s X9, which was influenced by, inspired by, and evolved from the M1911 platform.
Project 1 just takes things a step further in the unique custom market. The gun features all the fixings you’d expect. It’s a full-course meal complete with an optics cut that uses a pin system rather than plates. This means fewer stacked tolerances and a lower optics fit. The gun has a rail, ambidextrous safety, extended slide stop, and extended beavertail.
Project 1 ditches the grip safety from the M1911 platform, which is a fairly radical departure, even for a 2011 or double-stack M1911 platform. To me, it’s a welcome change. The grip safety was always a bit silly on the M1911 and unneeded since we aren’t rushing infantry positions on horseback anymore.
The gun features a built-in compensator to keep recoil low and muzzle rise practically nonexistent. Shooting one was a life-changing experience for me. Wilson has all this data about how their guns are low recoiling, including graphs and curves, but you have to experience it to really understand.
Project 1 is an absolute beast that pushes the entire category of double-stack M1911s to the next level. It’s certainly high-end and is a limited-production gun. It’s also not cheap. As you’d imagine, high-end means something, and the price is also high.
Wilson Combat Division 77 Project 1 Pros and Cons
- Easy to Shoot
- Railed For Accessories
- Excellent Ergonomics
- Expensive
Wilson Combat Division 77 Project 1 Deals
Best Competition Atlas Gunworks Artemis
Atlas Gunworks Artemis
A customizable, race ready double stack 1911 available in 9mm or 40S&W that a fixed front sight block.
- Shootability A+
- Reliability A+
- Ergonomics A+
- Accuracy A+
- Value C
Our Grade
A
Reader’s Grade
C
Based on 2 Reviews
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Atlas Gunworks Artemis Specs
- Caliber 9mm, 40S&W
- Capacity 17+1
- Weight 39 oz, 47 oz
- Barrel Length 4.6 in
Atlas Gunworks Artemis Review
Atlas Gunworks is an if-you-know-you-know gun company. They aren’t a common household name, but they should be. Their guns are beautiful, extremely well-made, double-stack 1911 designs. They designed their guns for a variety of purposes, including carry, duty, and competition. Today’s pick, the Artemis, is a pure competition gun built for competitive shooters. It’s a double-stack M1911 designed to fit into the IPSC box and to provide extreme performance.
The Artemis comes in both 9mm and 40 S&W for shooters preferring different power levels. It features the Alpha grip design, allowing for interchangeable grips to suit your hand. With its double undercut and trimmed ambidextrous safety, it offers comfortable handling for various hand sizes.
What’s neat is the sight block system they’ve implemented into the Artemis. It’s a block holding the front sight steady, separate from the reciprocating slide, which remains motionless as the slide moves. This does two things. First, it allows you to very easily track your front sight between shots. Second, it acts as a counterweight to recoil and makes life a little easier when shooting fast. The sight block makes it the same size as a government profile M1911.
The Artemis is simply the best competition gun, which gives you the smoothest shooting experience. It eats up recoil and handles like a dream. A good shooter will see a major difference between the Artemis and a standard production gun. I’m not even that good of a shooter, but I can feel and see the difference. The incredibly light and crisp trigger will certainly be noticed and appreciated.
Like every modern handgun, there is an RDS option to fit a red dot, which includes an RMR or SRO footprint. The gun also has a rail, although you can order a rail-free Artemis if you so choose. Additionally, the gun has adjustable sights if you are shooting iron sights. To finish it all off, we get a nice tac magwell for quick reloads.
Atlas Gunworks Artemis Pros and Cons
- Smooth Shooting
- Accurate
- Reliable
- Modular
- Expensive
Atlas Gunworks Artemis Deals
Product 6 Kimber KDS9C Rail
Kimber KDS9C Rail
The Kimber KDS9C Rail shrinks the double-stack M1911 to a more manageable carry size.
- Shootability A-
- Reliability A
- Ergonomics A
- Accuracy A-
- Value C+
Our Grade
A-
Reader’s Grade
F-
Based on 1 Reviews
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Kimber KDS9C Rail Specs
- Caliber 9mm
- Capacity 15/18
- Weight 30.3 oz
- Barrel Length 4.09 in
Kimber KDS9C Rail Review
The Kimber KDS9C is another mouthful of a gun, but it’s a lot smaller than the syllables of its name. Kimber has been a long-time 1911 producer, so it’s not a huge surprise that they’ve stepped into the double-stack world. The KD9SC is built from the ground up to be a carry gun that’s both compact and fairly lightweight for an all-metal gun.
To keep the weight a little lower than you’d expect, they went with a 7075 aluminum frame. Aluminum has long proven to be a working choice for firearms, and it keeps the weight down to 30.3 ounces. It’s still a little hefty, but not too bad. In that 30-ounce frame, you are getting an 18-round magazine with a finger extension as well as a 15-round flush-fitting magazine.
The KDS9C comes in railed and non-railed models, but the railed model is the one to pick. A Picatinny rail for accessories keeps things modern, and did I mention it’s optics-ready? A plate system allows you to mount various optics, from the micro-sized RMSc to the larger Trijicon RMR optics. The KDS9C is ready for whatever you want to toss on it.
The grip is nice and even svelte, which is rare for a double-stacked M1911. It’s very comfortable to shoot with minimal recoil and muzzle rise. The KD9SC features that crisp single-action trigger you expect from an M1911 and the sweet but short reset. If you want to carry a double-stacked M1911, this is one to go with. It’s smaller, lighter, and thinner than most without sacrificing modern features.
Kimber KD9SC Pros and Cons
- Compact
- Lightweight
- Optics Ready
- Easy Shooting
- Expensive
Kimber KDS9C Rail Deals
Best 10mm Rock Island Armory Rock Ultra HC 10mm
Rock Island Armory Rock Ultra HC 10mm
A double stack 1911 in 10mm that has the styling of the original M1911.
- Shootability A
- Reliability A
- Ergonomics B
- Accuracy A
- Value A+
Our Grade
A
Reader’s Grade
B
Based on 8 Reviews
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Rock Island Armory Rock Ultra HC 10mm Specs
- Caliber 10mm
- Capacity 16+1
- Weight 40 oz
- Barrel Length 5 in
Rock Island Armory Rock Ultra HC 10mm Review
Rock Island Armory doesn’t seem to know what brevity means. This gun is officially known as the Rock Island Armory Rock Ultra HC 10mm. That’s a mouthful, and because I appreciate brevity, let’s call it the Rock Ultra. I love the 10mm, and this was my first double stack 1911. It’s also likely one of the most affordable double-stack 1911s on the market, which is why I ranked it as the best 10mm 1911 double stack gun on my list. The RIA Rock Ultra packs 16 rounds of 10mm in its massive mag, and no, it’s no compact gun.
This beastly gun packs 16 rounds of powerful 10mm, making it perfect for home and bear defense. It’s big for carry, but it works well for home defense. This is one of the simpler double-stack M1911s, and it lacks a rail and optics-ready capability. The adjustable sights are fantastic, and the front sight is a nice high-visibility design. The weapon is quite accurate and is a real tack driver for the fairly affordable price point.
The Rock Ultra is big, with a wide grip, and that helps eat the recoil from a 10mm. It’s one of the softer shooting 10mm guns out there. Its beavertail is fairly long for a nice high grip on the gun. The RIA Rock Ultra allows you to get into both the powerhouse of 10mm and the double stack 1911 world without breaking a thousand dollars. The RIA double-stack 1911s are about as affordable as they get without sacrificing quality.
You can read more on the Rock Island Armory Rock Ultra HC 10mm here.
Rock Island Armory Rock Ultra HC 10mm Pros and Cons
- Affordable
- Low Recoil
- Accurate
- Lacks Modern Features
Rock Island Armory Rock Ultra HC 10mm Deals
Best Double Stack 1911 – Buyer’s Guide
Before you buy a double stack 1911, it’s important to know what makes each one different. Finding the right double stack 1911 for you means that you have to consider factors like purpose, caliber, capacity, barrel length, and more. Follow this buyer’s guide to make an informed decision and find the best double stack 1911 for your needs.
Factors To Consider When Buying a Double Stack 1911
Purpose: Before diving into the specifics, think about why you’re getting a double stack 1911 in the first place. Is it for self-defense, competition shooting, plinking at the range, or something else? Whatever your main reason, keeping your purpose in mind will help guide your choices throughout the selection process
Caliber: Consider the type of shooting you plan to do and the availability of ammo. For example, if you’re looking for something common and affordable, 9mm might be the way to go. But if you want a bit more punch, lean towards .40 S&W or even 10mm.
Capacity: One of the cool things about double stack 1911s is that they hold more rounds compared to the classic single-stack versions. So, figure out if the capacity of the gun you’re eyeing fits your needs. If it’s for personal defense, competition, or just having fun at the range, make sure it holds enough rounds for your purposes.
Barrel Length: Longer barrels usually mean better accuracy, but they might not be ideal for carrying concealed. So, consider what you prioritize: pinpoint accuracy or ease of carry.
Weight and Size: Keep in mind that double stack 1911s are generally heavier and bulkier because of the extra ammo they carry. So, if you’re thinking about carrying it concealed, you’ll want to balance the added capacity with how comfortable and easy it is to carry.
Customization: Some brands offer tons of ways to customize your double stack 1911, like adding optics, rails, adjustable sights, and more. If you’re into making your gun uniquely yours, this might be a big factor for you.
Trigger Quality: The trigger is super important for how well you can shoot. Look for one that’s smooth, crisp, and easy to control. A good trigger can make a difference in your accuracy and overall shooting experience.
Price and Value: Set a budget and try to find the best mix of features, quality, and performance within that range. Remember to think about the long-term value too, like how well it holds up over time and if it’ll hold its resale value.
Why A Double Stack 1911?
Well, despite their higher price tag compared to modern polymer pistols like the Glock 17, there’s something special about the 1911 platform that keeps enthusiasts hooked. It’s all about that smooth shooting experience it offers. Sure, they’re not for everyone, but if you’re a fan of the 1911’s classic traits, a double stack variant could be just what you’re looking for to bring it up to modern capacity.
So, what’s your take on 1911s and double stack 1911s? Share your thoughts below!
Accessories and Upgrades
Magazine Holster 2 Pieces Molle Tactical Pouch Pistol Magazine Holster |  | See on Amazon |
Grip Tape Dragon Grips Universal Gun Grip Tape |  | See on Amazon |
Best Double Stack 1911 – FAQs
Can I customize a double stack 1911?
Yes, you can customize it. Many brands offer options like optics-ready slides, rail systems, trigger choices, and different grip configurations, allowing you to tailor the gun to your preferences and shooting needs.
What are the most common calibers available for double stack 1911s?
The most common calibers for double stack 1911s are 9mm, .40 S&W, and 10mm. While other calibers may be available in some models, these three are widely popular among shooters.
Are entry-level double stack 1911s suitable for beginners?
Yes, entry-level double stack 1911s can be a great choice for beginners. It gives you the chance to experience the advantages of a double stack 1911 without paying the higher price tag of advanced models.
About Travis Pike
Travis Pike is a former Marine Machine Gunner and a lifelong firearms enthusiast. Now that his days of working a 240B like Charlie Parker on the sax are over, he's a regular guy who likes to shoot, write, and find ways to combine the two. He is a "simplicisist" when it comes to talking about himself in the 3rd person and a self-professed tactical hipster. Hit him up on Instagram with story ideas.
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I think the EAA Witness 2311 Match and the Match X would be included in this group. The gun is highly accurate, carries a lot of bullets, smooth shooter, comparable to the Staccato and is half the price.
I’ve only owned it for a week but absolutely love it. It’s very accurate and well balanced. Overall, it’s a joy to shoot at half the ammo cost of a .45. Couldn’t be happier.
Absolutely love every aspect of my platypus commander with bull barrel, very accurate. Highly recommend.
Except for the finish on these guns I have to give the 10mm an A+
I was hoping you would have put a .45 in your list also! I have been looking at RIA for my next pistol, thank you for adding one to this list.
.45 acp isn’t included in your list of the most common calibers? WTH?