Smith & Wesson SW1911Sc E-Series
Smith & Wesson · Pistol · In Production · 2011
Also known as: SW1911Sc, 1911Sc E-Series, SW1911 Scandium
Overview
The Smith & Wesson SW1911Sc E-Series is a Commander-sized 1911-pattern semi-automatic pistol featuring a lightweight scandium alloy frame chambered in .45 ACP. Introduced in 2011 as part of Smith & Wesson's E-Series (External Extractor) lineup, the SW1911Sc combines the classic 1911 design with modern lightweight materials and manufacturing techniques. The 'Sc' designation indicates the scandium frame construction, which reduces weight to approximately 29.6 ounces (840g) unloaded, making it one of the lightest full-power .45 ACP 1911s available. The pistol features a 4.25-inch barrel, stainless steel slide with Melonite finish, Trijicon tritium night sights front and rear, ambidextrous safety levers, and a bobtailed (rounded) frame design that enhances concealment. The scandium frame is anodized black for corrosion resistance. The E-Series external extractor design represents a departure from traditional 1911 internal extractors, offering improved reliability and easier maintenance. The pistol holds 8+1 rounds with the extended magazine or 7+1 with the flush magazine.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 840 g (29.6 oz) |
| Weight (loaded) | 984 g (34.7 oz) |
| Overall Length | 202 mm (7.95") |
| Barrel Length | 108 mm (4.25") |
| Height | 140 mm (5.51") |
| Width | 35 mm (1.38") |
| Action Type | Short Recoil |
| Firing Mechanism | Single Action Only |
| Trigger Type | Single Action |
| Magazine Capacity | 8 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 260 m/s (853 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 477 J (352 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 50 m (55 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 406 mm (15.98") |
| Number of Grooves | 6 |
| Frame Material | Scandium Alloy |
| Slide Material | Stainless Steel |
| Barrel Material | Stainless Steel |
| Finish | Melonite |
Calibers
- .45 ACP · primary — also known as .45 Auto, 11.43x23mm
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Thumb Safety, Grip Safety
- Features: Commander Size, Scandium Frame, Bobtail Design, Ambidextrous Safety, Tritium Night Sights, Titanium Firing Pin, Recessed Muzzle, Front Strap Checkering, Fish Scale Serrations, Laminated Wood Grips
Service history
Operators
- Civilian Concealed Carriers
- Sport Shooters
Production
Production years: 2011-present
Current production lightweight 1911 variant
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Notes
The SW1911Sc represents Smith & Wesson's effort to create a lightweight, concealable 1911 suitable for defensive carry without sacrificing the power of the .45 ACP cartridge. The scandium-aluminum alloy frame, the same material used in S&W's ultra-light revolvers, reduces weight by approximately 8-10 ounces compared to steel-framed Commander-sized 1911s. The bobtailed frame design rounds off the bottom rear corner of the grip frame, making the pistol more comfortable to carry concealed by reducing printing and sharp edges. The E-Series external extractor was controversial among 1911 purists when introduced but has proven reliable in extensive testing. Unlike traditional 1911s, the E-Series does not use a Series 80 firing pin block safety, instead relying on a titanium firing pin light enough to prevent inertial firing when dropped. The front strap features 17 lines per inch checkering for enhanced grip, while the slide has fish scale scalloped serrations for a distinctive appearance. The recessed muzzle crown protects the rifling from damage. The ambidextrous safety makes the pistol suitable for both right and left-handed shooters. Standard equipment includes laminated wood grips, though many users replace these with slimmer grips to reduce overall width. The lightweight construction results in sharper felt recoil compared to heavier 1911s, but remains manageable with practice.
Background
The SW1911Sc was developed to bring the proven 1911 platform into the modern era of lightweight concealed carry, utilizing aerospace-grade scandium alloy to create a Commander-sized .45 ACP that weighs less than many polymer 9mm pistols.