S&W SW1911TA E-Series 5″ .45 ACP 8+1
Specs at a glance
About this product
The S&W SW1911TA E-Series 5″ .45 ACP 8+1 is a full-size, single-action 1911 built for shooters who want a classic platform with modern upgrades. It combines a stainless steel frame and slide with a 5″ barrel, laminated wood E-Series grips, and tritium night sights. A Mil-Std 1913 rail lets you mount a light or laser without losing the traditional 1911 feel. This is a ready-to-run .45 that works for the range, home defense, or duty use.
| Manufacturer | Smith & Wesson |
|---|---|
| Model | SW1911TA E-Series |
| Material | Stainless steel frame and slide (per manufacturer specs) |
| Compatibility | .45 ACP ammunition; accepts standard 1911 accessories |
| Finish | Satin stainless |
| Weight | 41.6 oz (empty, per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- E-Series Laminated Wood Grips — Why it matters: These grips provide a secure, comfortable hold even with sweaty hands, and they give the gun a timeless look that stands out from black plastic.
- Tritium Night Sights — Why it matters: You get bright, self-illuminating dots that let you acquire your target in low light or total darkness, without batteries.
- Mil-Std 1913 Accessory Rail — Why it matters: You can attach a weapon light or laser for home defense or tactical use, while keeping the slim 1911 profile you expect.
- 5″ Barrel with Stainless Steel Construction — Why it matters: The longer barrel gives you a full sight radius for accuracy, and stainless steel resists rust and corrosion for years of reliable service.
- 8+1 Capacity — Why it matters: You get nine rounds of .45 ACP on tap, which is standard for a full-size 1911 and enough for most defensive situations.
Who It’s For
This pistol is for the shooter who wants a classic 1911 but doesn’t want to give up modern features like night sights and a rail. It fits the new gun owner looking for a reliable .45 for home defense, the experienced shooter who wants a range gun that doubles as a nightstand piece, and the collector who appreciates a well-finished stainless 1911. If you’ve handled a traditional 1911 and wished it had a rail, this is your answer.
Pros & Cons
- Pro: Tritium night sights are bright and durable — no batteries needed.
- Pro: Stainless steel frame and slide resist rust better than blued guns.
- Pro: The accessory rail accepts most modern lights without altering the grip.
- Con: At 41.6 ounces empty, it’s heavier than polymer-frame .45s — but that weight soaks up recoil nicely.
Comparison vs. Competitors
| Feature | S&W SW1911TA E-Series | Zev Technologies OZ9 | Geissele Automatics 1911 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .45 ACP | 9mm | .45 ACP |
| Barrel Length | 5″ | 4.5″ | 5″ |
| Frame Material | Stainless steel | Polymer with steel chassis | Stainless steel |
| Night Sights | Tritium (included) | Optional | Tritium (included) |
| Accessory Rail | Mil-Std 1913 | Mil-Std 1913 | None |
| Capacity | 8+1 | 17+1 (9mm) | 8+1 |
| Price | $1,591.75 | $1,899 | $2,199 |
The S&W offers a classic 1911 in .45 with a rail and night sights at a lower price than comparable high-end 1911s. The Zev OZ9 is a modern polymer 9mm with higher capacity, but if you want a traditional .45, the S&W is the better pick. The Geissele 1911 is a premium build but costs $600 more and lacks a rail.
FAQ
What is the capacity of the S&W SW1911TA E-Series?
It holds 8+1 rounds of .45 ACP — eight in the magazine plus one in the chamber.
Does this pistol have an accessory rail?
Yes, it has a Mil-Std 1913 rail on the dust cover for mounting lights or lasers.
What kind of sights does it use?
It comes with tritium night sights for low-light visibility.
Is the frame stainless steel?
Yes, both the frame and slide are stainless steel, per manufacturer specs.
What is the barrel length?
The barrel is 5 inches, giving you a full-size 1911 profile.
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Last updated: April 2026
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