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People still love the 1911, but I find it outdated compared to newer pistols with limited ammo capacity.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 P |  |
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Best Budget Springfield Prodigy | |
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Best Glock Magazines Stealth Arms Platypus | |
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Best High End Nighthawk TRS Commander | |
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Best Competition Atlas Gunworks Artemis | |
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Best CCW BUL Armory SAS II Ultralight | |
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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 P | 9mm | 20+1 | 33.0 | 4.4 |
| Springfield Prodigy | 9mm | 20+1 | 33.0 | 5.0 |
| Stealth Arms Platypus | 9mm | 17+1 | 32.0 | 5.0 |
| Nighthawk TRS Commander | 9mm | 17+1 | 36.7 | 4.25 |
| Atlas Gunworks Artemis | 9mm, 40S&W | 17+1 | 39, 47 | 4.6 |
| BUL Armory SAS II Ultralight | 9mm | 16+1 | 22.4 | 3.25 |
| 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 P
- Springfield Prodigy
- Stealth Arms Platypus
- Nighthawk TRS Commander
- Atlas Gunworks Artemis
- BUL Armory SAS II Ultralight
- 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
B
Based on 3 Reviews
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Staccato P Specs
- Caliber 9mm
- Capacity 20+1
- Weight 33 oz
- Barrel Length 4.4 in
Staccato P Review
Staccato owns the trademark to the 2011, so you can bet they produce one of the best on the market. These are modern pistols that feature typical of today’s tactical designs, making them the top choice in the Staccato lineup.
Staccato’s P Series pistols hold 17 rounds in their flush-fitting magazines and are capable of holding 20 rounds in a slightly extended magazine. The P series has a 4.4-inch barrel that keeps them handy and lighter than a standard 1911. The Staccato has a rail system that makes mounting a light easy, and of course, you can always get an optics-ready option. If you don’t go optics, you have tons of choices when it comes to iron sights, including some of the top dogs in the iron sights game.
The P series polymer grip reduces recoil by flexing, making Staccato P series 2011s soft shooters with minimal muzzle rise and smooth recoil impulse. This pistol is almost like cheating, and it’s a ton of fun, which is why I ranked it as the best overall gun in my double stack 1911 list.
Over a thousand law enforcement agencies have approved the P series for duty carry. It’s also the choice of the US Marshal’s SOG Team and the Texas Rangers. The Staccato P Series is well suited for competitive shooting, as well as home defense and maybe even concealed carry with the right belt and holster.
Read our full-length review of the Staccato P.
Staccato P Pros and Cons
- Soft and Smooth Shooting
- Very Accurate
- Reliable
- Expensive
Staccato P Deals
-
$2,295.99
-
$2,295.99
Best Budget Springfield Prodigy
Springfield Prodigy
The Springfield Prodigy is an excellent double-stack 9mm 1911 with many performance upgrades straight from the factory.
- Shootability A+
- Reliability A+
- Ergonomics A+
- Accuracy A+
- Value A
Our Grade
A+
Reader’s Grade
A
Based on 25 Reviews
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Springfield Prodigy Specs
- Caliber 9mm
- Capacity 20+1
- Weight 33 oz
- Barrel Length 5 in
Springfield Prodigy Review
Springfield Armory releasing a 2011-like platform wasn’t on my bingo card, but it was a welcome addition to the lineup. While this isn’t the most affordable option, it is the best budget gun for a 2011-like platform. At around 1,500 dollars, the Prodigy is a happy middle ground between features and price. The Prodigy comes in two configurations that offer you a five-inch barrel and a 4.25-inch barrel. One with maximized control and enhanced accuracy. The other focuses on handiness and practical carry.
Both come with modern features, such as Picatinny rail for attaching lights and lasers, and they’re ready for optics with Agency Arms AOS plates. Plus, they come with suppressor height sights for easy co-witnessing. Heck, Springfield even sells them with optics if you want a complete package right out of the gate, although the Springfield Armory optics are not our favorite.
Capacities include a flush-fitting 17-round magazine and a slightly extended 20-rounder; Springfield also makes a massive 26-rounder, just in case you need it. The Prodigy comes with bull barrels, ambidextrous safeties, and a slip polymer grip design that eats up recoil. The early models did have some problems, but Springfield Armory seemed to fix those issues.
Springfield Prodigy might not be as nice as some of the higher-end guns, but it’s a solid way to get into the world of 2011s. It’s a class of gun you can trust for self-defense purposes and competition shooting if you so choose. At the same time, it won’t cost you a lot of money. You can read the full review of the Springfield Prodigy here.
Springfield Prodigy Pros and Cons
- Outstanding Accuracy
- Optics Ready
- Suppressor Height Sights
- Early Models Had Issues
Springfield Prodigy Deals
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$1,169.00
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$1,199.99
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$1,259.99
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$1,349.99
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 2 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
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$1,400
Best High End Nighthawk TRS Commander
Nighthawk TRS Commander
A top of the line double stack 1911 with a Commander size frame and many upgrades.
- Shootability A+
- Reliability A
- Ergonomics A
- Accuracy A+
- Value C
Our Grade
A-
Reader’s Grade
TBD
Based on 0 Reviews
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Nighthawk TRS Commander Specs
- Caliber 9mm
- Capacity 17+1
- Weight 36.7 oz
- Barrel Length 4.25 in
Nighthawk TRS Commander Review
Nighthawk, with its rich history in craftsmanship, stands as one of the premier custom 1911 shops in the United States. For decades they’ve been producing some outstanding firearms, and it’s not a big surprise they went the double-stack 1911 route. If you’re not a 1911 fan, then you might not know what Commander means. Commander is the shorter slide and barrel combination that results in a 4.25-inch barrel and slide.
The Nighthawk TRS Commander is a double-stack 1911 with some surprising features from the traditional Nighthawk company. While the standard model doesn’t come optics-ready, you can opt for that feature for an extra fee. This includes a full-length dust cover that is railed for your high-speed accessories. Its monolithic slide and substantial full-length dust cover ensure it’s easy to control and handle, making fast shooting pretty damn easy.
The TRS Commander is a 9mm gun that uses 17-round magazines so you can shoot fast and straight without running out of ammo too quickly. The TRS Commander features a Nighthawk trigger job that delivers. It’s incredibly smooth and downright addictive to pull. The TRS Commander gets the full custom treatment, and it shows. Every control clicks and pops just perfectly and engages with ease.
The TRS Commander is dehorned, trimmed, and smoothed out. It might be a little hefty, but it’s still designed to be carried. It’s smaller than most and offers a smooth draw, with little risk of snagging on anything. Anything bearing the Nighthawk stamp is likely on the pricier side for carry, but if you’re after the best high-end 1911, the TRS Commander is your answer.
You can read the full review of the Nighthawk TRS Commander here.
Nighthawk TRS Commander Pros and Cons
- Easy to Shoot
- Railed For Accessories
- Excellent Ergonomics
- Optics Ready Isn’t Standard
Nighthawk TRS Commander Deals
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$4,299.00
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
-
$6,300
Product 6 BUL Armory SAS II Ultralight
BUL Armory SAS II Ultralight
A small double stack 1911 available in 9mm that is optics ready.
- Shootability A
- Reliability B
- Ergonomics A
- Accuracy B
- Value B
Our Grade
B+
Reader’s Grade
A+
Based on 1 Reviews
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BUL Armory SAS II Ultralight Specs
- Caliber 9mm
- Capacity 16+1
- Weight 22.4 oz
- Barrel Length 3.25 in
BUL Armory SAS II Ultralight Review
So far, we’ve covered a lot of fairly large guns. M1911s aren’t small guns, and double-stack M1911s aren’t small, either. Before we depart, let’s mention one of the smallest double 1911 options. The BUL Armory SAS II Ultralight is a tiny little fella. It’s got a 3.25-inch barrel and comes in at that Officer sized setup. The difference is that the fat bottom packs a 16-round magazine. It’s chambered in 9mm, making it the best option for a concealed carry weapon(CCW).
The gun is still thick but weighs a little under 22 ounces. An aluminum frame helps keep the weight down, and they even flute the barrel, which is a nice touch. The BUL Armory SAS II Ultralight packs a nice punch and makes use of a 2011-like design with black polymer grips. The BUL Armory SAS II Ultralight is a very modern carry pistol.
The SAS II features a rail for small lights and lasers. It’s also optics-ready and sports a Shield RMSc cut, which is universal amongst subcompact red dot optics. It’s ready for accessorization! The little gun has a trigger guard undercut for a higher grip and a large beavertail, allowing for better control. It’s a fairly smooth shooter for such a small gun.
The BUL Armory SAS II Ultralight is very reliable. It has a large ejection port to make sure spent cases fly out smoothly. This gunworks best with 124-grain ammo, which is common for small 1911s like this. These guns are inherently picky. I haven’t had that issue, but if I carried this gun, it would be with 124-grain ammo only, just in case.
BUL Armory SAS II Ultralight Pros and Cons
- Compact
- Lightweight
- Optics Ready
- Easy Shooting
- Ammo Picky
BUL Armory SAS II Ultralight Deals
-
$1,480.00
-
$1,480.00
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 6 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
-
$592.14
-
$654.98
-
$696.99
-
$702.99
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!
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.
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About Travis Pike
Travis is a former United States Marine Corps Infantryman and currently a firearms writer, instructor, and works in Emergency Management.
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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?