Shorty USA's video product on the Umarex/Elite Force Guns 1911A1 CO2 Blowback Pistol looks good with how they made a demonstration of it in action, wasting some balloons and glasses in the process. With a good range of 150 feet, it's a good option for practice shooting. But with 370fps velocity, you might want to think twice before bringing it to CQB games.

"Umarex/KWC Elite Force 1911A1 CO2 Full Metal Blow Back Airsoft Pistol

In today's market where 1911s seem to grow on trees, a new model is usually nothing one would get very excited about. However, after an afternoon of ripping up targets with the new Elite Force 1911A1 I am going to have to say that this full metal forty-five definitely has my attention.

This 1911 comes from Umarex USA under their Elite Force brand and it is built by KWC on their new 1911 design. While it is similar to the KWC model released last year under a different brand, and is compatible with those magazines, Umarex has stepped in and had a few modifications done to make this pistol unique. These include a redesigned, easier to load magazine with which you can now simply pull the follower down and pour the BBs in instead of loading them one at a time. Since it is constructed from metal this pistol has a nice heft, realistic balance and an extremely menacing sound when you rack it. The pistol has been finished in a matte black paint which wears in nicely during use to give it an awesome weathered appearance. Umarex has also had their new pistol fitted with a metal 14mm CCW threaded muzzle so you can attach an amplifier, mock suppressor or even a tracer unit.

However, it is not until you start sending rounds downrange does this pistol truly start to strut its stuff. With Elite Force .28g BBs this pistol is an absolute tack driver capable of impressive long range accuracy and power. On the chrono it clocked in at a solid 370 fps at the muzzle yet I was consistently getting an average of 90 shots per CO2 cartridge which is outstanding for a full fledged gas blow back. It has been fitted with an aggressive hop-up system which allows it to perform exceptionally well at long range although this does make heavyweight BBs a requirement. A .25g is usable for short range CQB but beyond 50 feet I strongly suggest using a .28g to maintain a level trajectory.

Overall this pistol really surprised me and definitely exceeded my expectations. It looks great, functions smoothly, kicks like mule and hits its target like a ton of bricks. Everything that anyone would want out of a forty-five.

This Umarex product comes with a 60 day warranty provided by Umarex USA. Warranty repair or replacement on this item must go through the Umarex service center and does not fall under the Shorty USA warranty."