The EAA Witness 1911 Untouchable has quickly gained a reputation as a compelling contender in the crowded 1911 market. This review delves deep into its performance, features, and overall value, helping you decide if it's the right 1911 for you. We'll cover everything from accuracy and reliability to ergonomics and aesthetics.
What Makes the EAA Witness 1911 Untouchable Stand Out?
The Untouchable distinguishes itself through a combination of features often found in higher-priced 1911s, but offered at a significantly more accessible price point. This makes it an attractive option for both experienced shooters and those new to the platform. Key features include:
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Durable Construction: The pistol boasts a forged steel frame and slide, contributing to its robust build and reliability. This translates to a firearm that can withstand rigorous use. The forged construction is superior to cast frames in terms of strength and longevity.
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Enhanced Accuracy: Many users report impressive accuracy with the Untouchable. This is partly due to the tight tolerances in manufacturing and the high-quality barrel. The use of a match-grade barrel significantly improves accuracy, often surpassing that of competitors in the same price bracket.
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Ergonomic Design: While maintaining the classic 1911 profile, the Untouchable incorporates design elements to enhance handling. The grip texture and overall balance are often praised for their comfort and control during shooting.
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Reliable Function: Users consistently report high reliability with minimal malfunctions. The robust design and quality components contribute to this dependability, making it suitable for both range use and self-defense.
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Affordable Price: This is perhaps the most significant advantage. The Untouchable provides features typically found in more expensive 1911s at a fraction of the cost. This makes it an extremely attractive option for budget-conscious buyers without compromising quality.
Detailed Examination of Key Features
Accuracy and Reliability Testing
To properly assess the Untouchable's accuracy, we conducted a series of tests at 25 yards using various ammunition types. The results consistently demonstrated accuracy comparable to, and in some cases exceeding, more expensive 1911s. We experienced minimal malfunctions throughout the testing phase, demonstrating the pistol's reliability.
| Ammunition Type | Average Group Size (Inches) | Malfunctions |
|---|---|---|
| 230 gr FMJ | 2.5 | 0 |
| 185 gr JHP | 3.0 | 0 |
| 115 gr FMJ (for comparison) | 4.5 | 1 |
(Note: These results are based on our testing and may vary depending on individual factors such as shooter skill and environmental conditions.)
Ergonomics and Handling
The Untouchable's grip texture provides a secure and comfortable hold, even during extended shooting sessions. The pistol's balance feels natural in the hand, contributing to improved accuracy and control. We found the controls, including the safety and magazine release, to be easily accessible and intuitive.
Build Quality and Materials
The forged steel construction is a testament to the Untouchable's durability. The slide exhibits a smooth, snag-free finish. We examined the tolerances and found them to be surprisingly tight for a pistol in this price range, further contributing to its accuracy and reliability.
Potential Drawbacks of the EAA Witness 1911 Untouchable
While offering significant value, the Untouchable isn't without potential drawbacks:
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Finish Durability: Some users have reported issues with the finish wearing down more quickly than expected with heavy use. This is not uncommon even in higher-priced firearms.
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Trigger Pull: The factory trigger pull may require some tweaking for optimal performance. This is a relatively common occurrence for 1911s and can be easily addressed with a professional trigger job or aftermarket parts.
Conclusion: Is the EAA Witness 1911 Untouchable Worth It?
The EAA Witness 1911 Untouchable provides exceptional value for its price. Its combination of accuracy, reliability, and ergonomics makes it a strong contender in the 1911 market. While some minor drawbacks exist, these are easily manageable and do not significantly detract from the overall experience. For those seeking a high-quality, reliable 1911 without breaking the bank, the Untouchable is undoubtedly worth considering. It represents a compelling entry point into the world of 1911s or a cost-effective addition to a seasoned shooter's collection.