Richard McCleery
8th February 2020, 19:39
https://ezine.m1911.org/banners/wilson_combat.jpg
Wilson Combat 9mm American Combat Pistol (ACP)
A pistol test and review by Richard McCleery (Rick McC.) for M1911.org
https://ezine.m1911.org/images/pictures/Wilson_Combat_ACP/pic01.jpg
The Pistol
The Wilson Combat American Combat Pistol (ACP) is a full size 1911 style pistol with a 5” slide and barrel. The ACP Model can be had in either .45ACP, or 9mm Parabellum.
https://ezine.m1911.org/images/pictures/Wilson_Combat_ACP/pic03.jpg
The test pistol included two of Wilson’s ETM magazines capable of holding 10 rounds of 9mm. Also included were a Wilson soft pistol case, a Wilson cleaning cloth, a second recoil spring with “heavy load” noted on its plastic bag, a red fiber optic rod replacement, Wilson bushing wrench, and two different sized hex wrenches. The pistol also came with a shok-buff installed, which was removed when cleaning and lubing the pistol prior to firing. The pistol case contained no manual or other documentation.
https://ezine.m1911.org/images/pictures/Wilson_Combat_ACP/pic04.jpg
The Wilson ACP is an all steel pistol, with a black Armor-Tuff finish on both the slide and frame. The roll marked Wilson Combat logo is small, and located on the right rear side of the slide, behind the cocking serrations.
https://ezine.m1911.org/images/pictures/Wilson_Combat_ACP/pic05.jpg
The slide is round-topped, with both front and rear sights set into machined dovetails. The rear sight has two hex screws, and is adjustable for windage by drifting the sight in the dovetail. The rear sight is all black, with a serrated rear face and a u-notch. The front sight has a red fiber optic insert. Overall, the sights present a clear sight picture that’s quick to find.
https://ezine.m1911.org/images/pictures/Wilson_Combat_ACP/pic06.jpg
With the exception of the roll marked “ACP” and the logo noted above, the right side of the slide is unmarked.
https://ezine.m1911.org/images/pictures/Wilson_Combat_ACP/pic07.jpg
The slide to frame fit is quite good. Even after cleaning, with no lube on the slide and frame rails, side to side movement between the slide and frame was non-existent.
https://ezine.m1911.org/images/pictures/Wilson_Combat_ACP/pic08.jpg
The takedown and slide stop notches are properly shaped, and the slide stop and grip safety are all nicely fitted to the frame. All told, the fitting and machine work of the pistol was first rate. The slide’s left side sports a Wilson Combat roll mark. There are no sharp edges to be found anywhere on the Wilson ACP, and all of the edges on the slide are machined to a nice uniform bevel.
https://ezine.m1911.org/images/pictures/Wilson_Combat_ACP/pic09.jpg
The trigger is nicely fitted, and includes a screw for over-travel adjustment. The trigger has a small amount of take-up, breaking cleanly at an average of 3 pounds, 5 ounces over five pulls using a Lyman digital trigger pull gauge.
https://ezine.m1911.org/images/pictures/Wilson_Combat_ACP/pic10.jpg
The Wilson ACP takes down like any 1911. I personally appreciate a 1911 that takes down as JMB intended; no clips, bent paper clips, hex wrenches or other accoutrements necessary!
https://ezine.m1911.org/images/pictures/Wilson_Combat_ACP/pic11.jpg
The ACP models also include Wilson’s flush cut beveled muzzle.
Time to Shoot!
Wilson Combat provided me with 400 rounds of their 135 grain HBFN (Hollow Based Flat Nose) jacketed Remanufactured 9mm ammo, 40 rounds of their 124 grain XTP HP +P ammo, and 40 rounds of their 115 grain Tac-XP +P ammo to use in the testing and evaluation of the full sized 9mm Wilson Combat ACP. This load uses a Barnes solid copper 115 grain HP.
My testing and evaluation took place over several weeks.
I was provided a great deal of assistance with this part of the review by Mr. Andy Maluke. Andy provided access to the 200 meter range at the Hernando Sportsman’s Club, as well as his chronograph, sandbags, and miscellaneous equipment used in shooting the Wilson ACP at 25 yards.
Andy was a real trooper that day, as he’d had surgery on his hand a few months prior, and this was the first time in several months he’d shot using his left hand. (Andy is left handed.) It still hurt a good bit, but he powered through it. (Much appreciation and awe at your toughness, Andy!)
Andy is a board member at the club, is an IDPA expert class shooter, and Safety Officer Instructor. He was also the IDPA Match Director at the club for many years. Since my old eyes aren’t what they used to be, Andy shot the groups reported here at 25 yards. I shot a few offhand rapid fire targets at 10 yards that day. Keeping all shots “zero down” in both the head and center of mass of an IDPA silhouette target was easily done with the ACP. I also used the Wilson ACP to shoot two weekly IDPA practices, and an IDPA monthly match, over the following few weeks.
I’m pleased to report that the pistol functioned flawlessly, with no malfunctions either during the testing the first day, or over the following weeks when I shot it weekly. I field stripped, cleaned and lubed the ACP when I received it. It was fairly wet when I removed it from its plastic bag but, not knowing if the material was a preservative or a lubricant, I erred on the side of caution, using a CLP that’s readily available nationwide. That was the only time that the Wilson ACP was cleaned and/or lubed during the entire time I was shooting it.
https://ezine.m1911.org/images/pictures/Wilson_Combat_ACP/pic12.jpg
To start the accuracy testing, Andy shot five rounds each of the three different types of Wilson ammunition through his chronograph.
The 135 grain HBFN 9mm ammo had an average velocity of 970 feet per second, with an extreme spread of 57, and a standard deviation of 24, for five rounds through the chronograph.
The 124 grain XTP HP +P averaged a velocity of 1161 feet per second, with an extreme spread of 40, and a standard deviation of 12, for five rounds through the chronograph.
The 115 grain TAC-XP +P had a five round average velocity of 1083 feet per second, with an extreme spread of 29, and a standard deviation of 12.
Throughout the testing, I didn’t make any adjustments to the sights. At 25 yards, all loads shot pretty much to the same place.
https://ezine.m1911.org/images/pictures/Wilson_Combat_ACP/pic13.jpg
This five round 9mm group shot by Andy at 25 yards measured 1.6 inches. This was the 124 grain XTP +P ammunition.
https://ezine.m1911.org/images/pictures/Wilson_Combat_ACP/pic14.jpg
The top five-round group shot at 25 yards with the 115 grain TAC XP +P ammunition measured 2.3 inches. The second group shot at the target bottom (with one just below the paper on the backing) measured 2.1 inches.
https://ezine.m1911.org/images/pictures/Wilson_Combat_ACP/pic15.jpg
This target, shot at 25 yards, contains the groups shot with the Wilson 135 grain HBFN Remanufactured ammunition. The top five round group (the hole at 2:00 is actually two shots) measured 1.5 inches. These were the first rounds fired that morning, from a clean bore in a cold pistol. The second five round group, shot at the bottom of the target, measured 3.0 inches.
All groups were measured from center to center of the farthest bullet holes, using a digital caliper. The temperature that morning was in the low 50’s F, with wind gusts over 20 MPH. It was NOT a fun day to shoot.
We both agreed that this pistol, shot from a Ransom Rest, is easily a "one inch group at 25 yards" gun.
Evaluation
As mentioned above, after the less than fun morning with Andy conducting the accuracy testing, it was time for some fun!
Accordingly, I shot the 9mm Wilson ACP at IDPA practice over the next two weeks (one Tuesday morning each week), and had a ball. The pistol shot wherever I pointed it (usually a good thing). Being a 9mm, all steel, full sized 1911, recoil was pretty negligible even when running the gun fast on multiple targets. It tracked and transitioned very well, and double and triple taps were easily accomplished.
https://ezine.m1911.org/images/pictures/Wilson_Combat_ACP/pic16.jpg
Another feature of the ACP model that I haven’t touched on yet is the “Eagle Claw” machining on the front strap of the grip frame and main spring housing. The design is also carried over onto the stocks, as seen in the picture above. The pistol is easy to grip firmly in the hand, without experiencing any roughness to the skin, as there often is with some coarse finished grip frames, main spring housings, and stocks.
When the time came for my local range’s monthly IDPA match, I put the Wilson ACP into action again. It was actually the first match that I’d shot in a year, and it’d been several years since I’d shot a 1911 in one. The pistol functioned just as flawlessly as it had during the previous outings, and the inherent accuracy of the pistol made making hits easy.
Overall
After living with the Wilson ACP for a bit over a month, it certainly made an impression. First, it’s reliable, as in 500+ rounds of flawless functioning reliable. No cleaning, four different loads shot through six different magazines reliable. I used the two new Wilson 10 round magazines that came with the pistol, plus four more old Wilson 10 round ETMs that I’ve had for about 10 years. I’d have no problem with depending on this pistol for my EDC gun, and that’s high praise in my world. As noted above, it’s also a very accurate pistol.
As for looks; it drew quite a bit of attention from the other shooters on my squad when I shot the match with it. Wilson Combat 1911’s are rarely ever seen there, and this was the first ACP model that anyone had seen. Everyone that saw the pistol commented on its good looks, fine fit and finish, and the obvious shoot-ability and accuracy inherent in the pistol.
The Wilson ACP is actually their fairly new, more “affordable” line of 1911s. They’re available in 45ACP and 9mm, with few other options available. That’s one of the ways they keep the costs down. MSRPs are $2495.00 and $2595.00 respectively. That’s a good bit less than most Wilson Combat models start at and, though not cheap, it’s a lot of gun for the money.
I’m going to hate to have to send this one back.
Specifications
Wilson Combat American Combat Pistol 9mm
Caliber .45 ACP / 9mm (tested)
Height 5.6 inches / 142 mm
Width 1.3 inches / 33 mm
Length 8.7 inches / 221 mm
Barrel Length 5 inches / 127 mm
Weight 41.6 Ounces / 1.179 kg
Sights Windage adjustable rear / FO front post
Sight Radius 6.6 inches / 168 mm
Finish Armor-Tuff black
Capacity 8 rounds (45 ACP), 10 rounds (9mm)
Grip Material G-10
Accuracy Guarantee 1 inch at 25 yards / 25.4 mm at 22.9 M
MSRP $2495.00 / $2595.00
Acknowledgements
First, the staff at Wilson Combat and Wilson’s Gun Shop, Inc. should be recognized for both providing the pistol and ammunition used for the testing and evaluation in this article.
American Gun and Pawn, my local FFL, was instrumental in making this review possible. They were most gracious in handling the firearm transfer for me at a very reasonable cost. It’s getting harder and harder to find a gun shop that will still handle firearm transfers for a reasonable price. They also have quite a diverse selection of firearms and other products.
I also must extend sincere appreciation to the Hernando Sportsman’s Club and Mr. Andy Maluke for use of the range facilities, equipment provided, and Andy’s expertise in conducting the accuracy testing.
You may discuss this article on our forum’s site (https://forum.m1911.org/showthread.php?111347-Wilson-Combat-9mm-American-Combat-Pistol-review-discussion-thread&p=1003704#post1003704).
Find us on : https://ezine.m1911.org/images/buttons/facebook2.png (http://www.facebook.com/m1911.org) https://ezine.m1911.org/images/buttons/twitter2.png (https://www.twitter.com/M1911ORG)
Sources
Pistol and Wilson Combat Ammunition
https://ezine.m1911.org/banners/wilson_combat.jpg
Wilson Combat
2452 CR 719
Berryville, AR 72616
USA
Phone: (870) 545-3618
Fax: (870) 545-3310
www.wilsoncombat.com
Hernando Sportsman’s Club
16121 Commercial Way
Weeki Wachee, Fl 34614
(352) 597-9931
http://www.hernandosportsmansclub.com
American Gun and Pawn Inc.
1118 E. Jefferson St.
Brooksville, FL 34601
(352) 593-7296
www.americangunandpawn.com
Wilson Combat 9mm American Combat Pistol (ACP)
A pistol test and review by Richard McCleery (Rick McC.) for M1911.org
https://ezine.m1911.org/images/pictures/Wilson_Combat_ACP/pic01.jpg
The Pistol
The Wilson Combat American Combat Pistol (ACP) is a full size 1911 style pistol with a 5” slide and barrel. The ACP Model can be had in either .45ACP, or 9mm Parabellum.
https://ezine.m1911.org/images/pictures/Wilson_Combat_ACP/pic03.jpg
The test pistol included two of Wilson’s ETM magazines capable of holding 10 rounds of 9mm. Also included were a Wilson soft pistol case, a Wilson cleaning cloth, a second recoil spring with “heavy load” noted on its plastic bag, a red fiber optic rod replacement, Wilson bushing wrench, and two different sized hex wrenches. The pistol also came with a shok-buff installed, which was removed when cleaning and lubing the pistol prior to firing. The pistol case contained no manual or other documentation.
https://ezine.m1911.org/images/pictures/Wilson_Combat_ACP/pic04.jpg
The Wilson ACP is an all steel pistol, with a black Armor-Tuff finish on both the slide and frame. The roll marked Wilson Combat logo is small, and located on the right rear side of the slide, behind the cocking serrations.
https://ezine.m1911.org/images/pictures/Wilson_Combat_ACP/pic05.jpg
The slide is round-topped, with both front and rear sights set into machined dovetails. The rear sight has two hex screws, and is adjustable for windage by drifting the sight in the dovetail. The rear sight is all black, with a serrated rear face and a u-notch. The front sight has a red fiber optic insert. Overall, the sights present a clear sight picture that’s quick to find.
https://ezine.m1911.org/images/pictures/Wilson_Combat_ACP/pic06.jpg
With the exception of the roll marked “ACP” and the logo noted above, the right side of the slide is unmarked.
https://ezine.m1911.org/images/pictures/Wilson_Combat_ACP/pic07.jpg
The slide to frame fit is quite good. Even after cleaning, with no lube on the slide and frame rails, side to side movement between the slide and frame was non-existent.
https://ezine.m1911.org/images/pictures/Wilson_Combat_ACP/pic08.jpg
The takedown and slide stop notches are properly shaped, and the slide stop and grip safety are all nicely fitted to the frame. All told, the fitting and machine work of the pistol was first rate. The slide’s left side sports a Wilson Combat roll mark. There are no sharp edges to be found anywhere on the Wilson ACP, and all of the edges on the slide are machined to a nice uniform bevel.
https://ezine.m1911.org/images/pictures/Wilson_Combat_ACP/pic09.jpg
The trigger is nicely fitted, and includes a screw for over-travel adjustment. The trigger has a small amount of take-up, breaking cleanly at an average of 3 pounds, 5 ounces over five pulls using a Lyman digital trigger pull gauge.
https://ezine.m1911.org/images/pictures/Wilson_Combat_ACP/pic10.jpg
The Wilson ACP takes down like any 1911. I personally appreciate a 1911 that takes down as JMB intended; no clips, bent paper clips, hex wrenches or other accoutrements necessary!
https://ezine.m1911.org/images/pictures/Wilson_Combat_ACP/pic11.jpg
The ACP models also include Wilson’s flush cut beveled muzzle.
Time to Shoot!
Wilson Combat provided me with 400 rounds of their 135 grain HBFN (Hollow Based Flat Nose) jacketed Remanufactured 9mm ammo, 40 rounds of their 124 grain XTP HP +P ammo, and 40 rounds of their 115 grain Tac-XP +P ammo to use in the testing and evaluation of the full sized 9mm Wilson Combat ACP. This load uses a Barnes solid copper 115 grain HP.
My testing and evaluation took place over several weeks.
I was provided a great deal of assistance with this part of the review by Mr. Andy Maluke. Andy provided access to the 200 meter range at the Hernando Sportsman’s Club, as well as his chronograph, sandbags, and miscellaneous equipment used in shooting the Wilson ACP at 25 yards.
Andy was a real trooper that day, as he’d had surgery on his hand a few months prior, and this was the first time in several months he’d shot using his left hand. (Andy is left handed.) It still hurt a good bit, but he powered through it. (Much appreciation and awe at your toughness, Andy!)
Andy is a board member at the club, is an IDPA expert class shooter, and Safety Officer Instructor. He was also the IDPA Match Director at the club for many years. Since my old eyes aren’t what they used to be, Andy shot the groups reported here at 25 yards. I shot a few offhand rapid fire targets at 10 yards that day. Keeping all shots “zero down” in both the head and center of mass of an IDPA silhouette target was easily done with the ACP. I also used the Wilson ACP to shoot two weekly IDPA practices, and an IDPA monthly match, over the following few weeks.
I’m pleased to report that the pistol functioned flawlessly, with no malfunctions either during the testing the first day, or over the following weeks when I shot it weekly. I field stripped, cleaned and lubed the ACP when I received it. It was fairly wet when I removed it from its plastic bag but, not knowing if the material was a preservative or a lubricant, I erred on the side of caution, using a CLP that’s readily available nationwide. That was the only time that the Wilson ACP was cleaned and/or lubed during the entire time I was shooting it.
https://ezine.m1911.org/images/pictures/Wilson_Combat_ACP/pic12.jpg
To start the accuracy testing, Andy shot five rounds each of the three different types of Wilson ammunition through his chronograph.
The 135 grain HBFN 9mm ammo had an average velocity of 970 feet per second, with an extreme spread of 57, and a standard deviation of 24, for five rounds through the chronograph.
The 124 grain XTP HP +P averaged a velocity of 1161 feet per second, with an extreme spread of 40, and a standard deviation of 12, for five rounds through the chronograph.
The 115 grain TAC-XP +P had a five round average velocity of 1083 feet per second, with an extreme spread of 29, and a standard deviation of 12.
Throughout the testing, I didn’t make any adjustments to the sights. At 25 yards, all loads shot pretty much to the same place.
https://ezine.m1911.org/images/pictures/Wilson_Combat_ACP/pic13.jpg
This five round 9mm group shot by Andy at 25 yards measured 1.6 inches. This was the 124 grain XTP +P ammunition.
https://ezine.m1911.org/images/pictures/Wilson_Combat_ACP/pic14.jpg
The top five-round group shot at 25 yards with the 115 grain TAC XP +P ammunition measured 2.3 inches. The second group shot at the target bottom (with one just below the paper on the backing) measured 2.1 inches.
https://ezine.m1911.org/images/pictures/Wilson_Combat_ACP/pic15.jpg
This target, shot at 25 yards, contains the groups shot with the Wilson 135 grain HBFN Remanufactured ammunition. The top five round group (the hole at 2:00 is actually two shots) measured 1.5 inches. These were the first rounds fired that morning, from a clean bore in a cold pistol. The second five round group, shot at the bottom of the target, measured 3.0 inches.
All groups were measured from center to center of the farthest bullet holes, using a digital caliper. The temperature that morning was in the low 50’s F, with wind gusts over 20 MPH. It was NOT a fun day to shoot.
We both agreed that this pistol, shot from a Ransom Rest, is easily a "one inch group at 25 yards" gun.
Evaluation
As mentioned above, after the less than fun morning with Andy conducting the accuracy testing, it was time for some fun!
Accordingly, I shot the 9mm Wilson ACP at IDPA practice over the next two weeks (one Tuesday morning each week), and had a ball. The pistol shot wherever I pointed it (usually a good thing). Being a 9mm, all steel, full sized 1911, recoil was pretty negligible even when running the gun fast on multiple targets. It tracked and transitioned very well, and double and triple taps were easily accomplished.
https://ezine.m1911.org/images/pictures/Wilson_Combat_ACP/pic16.jpg
Another feature of the ACP model that I haven’t touched on yet is the “Eagle Claw” machining on the front strap of the grip frame and main spring housing. The design is also carried over onto the stocks, as seen in the picture above. The pistol is easy to grip firmly in the hand, without experiencing any roughness to the skin, as there often is with some coarse finished grip frames, main spring housings, and stocks.
When the time came for my local range’s monthly IDPA match, I put the Wilson ACP into action again. It was actually the first match that I’d shot in a year, and it’d been several years since I’d shot a 1911 in one. The pistol functioned just as flawlessly as it had during the previous outings, and the inherent accuracy of the pistol made making hits easy.
Overall
After living with the Wilson ACP for a bit over a month, it certainly made an impression. First, it’s reliable, as in 500+ rounds of flawless functioning reliable. No cleaning, four different loads shot through six different magazines reliable. I used the two new Wilson 10 round magazines that came with the pistol, plus four more old Wilson 10 round ETMs that I’ve had for about 10 years. I’d have no problem with depending on this pistol for my EDC gun, and that’s high praise in my world. As noted above, it’s also a very accurate pistol.
As for looks; it drew quite a bit of attention from the other shooters on my squad when I shot the match with it. Wilson Combat 1911’s are rarely ever seen there, and this was the first ACP model that anyone had seen. Everyone that saw the pistol commented on its good looks, fine fit and finish, and the obvious shoot-ability and accuracy inherent in the pistol.
The Wilson ACP is actually their fairly new, more “affordable” line of 1911s. They’re available in 45ACP and 9mm, with few other options available. That’s one of the ways they keep the costs down. MSRPs are $2495.00 and $2595.00 respectively. That’s a good bit less than most Wilson Combat models start at and, though not cheap, it’s a lot of gun for the money.
I’m going to hate to have to send this one back.
Specifications
Wilson Combat American Combat Pistol 9mm
Caliber .45 ACP / 9mm (tested)
Height 5.6 inches / 142 mm
Width 1.3 inches / 33 mm
Length 8.7 inches / 221 mm
Barrel Length 5 inches / 127 mm
Weight 41.6 Ounces / 1.179 kg
Sights Windage adjustable rear / FO front post
Sight Radius 6.6 inches / 168 mm
Finish Armor-Tuff black
Capacity 8 rounds (45 ACP), 10 rounds (9mm)
Grip Material G-10
Accuracy Guarantee 1 inch at 25 yards / 25.4 mm at 22.9 M
MSRP $2495.00 / $2595.00
Acknowledgements
First, the staff at Wilson Combat and Wilson’s Gun Shop, Inc. should be recognized for both providing the pistol and ammunition used for the testing and evaluation in this article.
American Gun and Pawn, my local FFL, was instrumental in making this review possible. They were most gracious in handling the firearm transfer for me at a very reasonable cost. It’s getting harder and harder to find a gun shop that will still handle firearm transfers for a reasonable price. They also have quite a diverse selection of firearms and other products.
I also must extend sincere appreciation to the Hernando Sportsman’s Club and Mr. Andy Maluke for use of the range facilities, equipment provided, and Andy’s expertise in conducting the accuracy testing.
You may discuss this article on our forum’s site (https://forum.m1911.org/showthread.php?111347-Wilson-Combat-9mm-American-Combat-Pistol-review-discussion-thread&p=1003704#post1003704).
Find us on : https://ezine.m1911.org/images/buttons/facebook2.png (http://www.facebook.com/m1911.org) https://ezine.m1911.org/images/buttons/twitter2.png (https://www.twitter.com/M1911ORG)
Sources
Pistol and Wilson Combat Ammunition
https://ezine.m1911.org/banners/wilson_combat.jpg
Wilson Combat
2452 CR 719
Berryville, AR 72616
USA
Phone: (870) 545-3618
Fax: (870) 545-3310
www.wilsoncombat.com
Hernando Sportsman’s Club
16121 Commercial Way
Weeki Wachee, Fl 34614
(352) 597-9931
http://www.hernandosportsmansclub.com
American Gun and Pawn Inc.
1118 E. Jefferson St.
Brooksville, FL 34601
(352) 593-7296
www.americangunandpawn.com