The Citadel 1911 was introduced in 2009 by a brand belonging to a company called Armscor. Production takes place in the Philippines with distribution by Legacy Sports – a company based in the United States.

Citadel offers the M-1911 in either .45 ACP (as tested) or 9mm with three different sizing options. I was provided a “Government” model that is California legal and is the larger of the three with a 5″ barrel. Built based on a traditional steel frame 1911 design, the Citadel M-1911 offers a classic appearance and feel.

Considering the entry level price point (MSRP of $599) with the Citadel, the features and design stood out to me. Dark matte black steel combined with deep stained wood grips provides an aggressive but sleek look.

Each of the two factory included magazines hold 8 rounds providing a total capacity of 9 rounds with one in the chamber. A backstrap and manual thumb safety are both included on this 1911.

Being completely transparent here, I’m not one to typically enjoy the 1911 style – at least not chambered in .45 ACP. I know, I know…how dare I even say such things. It’s just that I typically am not able to shoot these guns as efficiently as a modern polymer frame. This being said, I still appreciate the design and quality of many in this category.

This particular 1911 does provide a quality feel in the hands, and as the pictures attest, a quality look as well. Now for what everyone is here for, how does it run?

The pistols are built in the traditional design using 4140 ordnance steel on the industry’s best CNC machines while being hand-fitted and tested to strict tolerance guidelines for unmatched quality and value. Combined with various choices in size and styles makes the 1911 a great experience out of the box.

Citadel is the brand name under the Legacy Sports International name which produces a variety of shotguns, rifles, and handguns. Citadel offers unique and innovative designs while also producing time tested classics like the company’s lever action Levtac 92 rifle. The company also produces a 1911 style handgun that is hand fitted, with quality and is reasonably priced. The 1911’s are offered in either 9mm or the classic .45 ACP. Their shotgun line is also impressive with the introduction of the new BOSS25 which is an AR styled 12 gauge semi auto shotgun. If you are in the market for a full valued, quality made firearm that you can count on, then check out the firearms from Citadel.