
In the world of competitive shooting, gear matters—but so does feel. There’s something about the 1911 that continues to draw shooters, both old-school and new. Maybe it’s the slim frame, the crisp trigger, or the all-metal construction that just feels right. The Colt Optics Ready 1911 Competition Series takes that timeless platform and gives it a modern twist—red dot ready, match-tuned, and made for speed.
If you’re the kind of shooter who believes everything’s a competition—whether it’s a USPSA match or a backyard steel challenge—this might be the 1911 for you.
The Colt Competition Series is designed to help you run faster, shoot more accurately, and reload with confidence. Whether you’re shooting in 9mm or .45 ACP, the gun comes packed with features that make a difference on the timer.
Key Features:
“1911… kind of a cheat code. A red dot? A double cheat code.”
For those who prefer iron sights, you’re ready to shoot as-is. But if you’re ready to move into target-focused red dot shooting, just remove the top plate and add your preferred optic. The platform is ready for it.
One of the highlights of this 1911 is its versatility. Some shooters prefer irons, especially on a 1911. Others are embracing the speed and precision of red dots. The good news? The Colt Competition Series caters to both camps.
“I like to shoot iron sights. But red dots? They’re fast. And they’re extremely accurate.”
That kind of flexibility makes this 1911 a great way to either stick with tradition or ease into modern competition setups without ditching what you already love.
The Optics Ready 1911 Competition isn’t just for show. On the range, it’s a blast to shoot—accurate, responsive, and purpose-built for match use.
Even with a single-stack magazine, which requires more frequent reloads, the controls are well-positioned, the trigger is light, and the slide cycles smoothly. Yes, reloads may “thread the needle,” but that’s part of the game—and the challenge.
“I don’t do anything particularly fast. But I love to shoot and make hits.”
This gun rewards precision. Whether you're transitioning between targets or chasing sub-2-second reloads, everything about the gun feels deliberate, balanced, and confidence-inspiring.
Shooting with a red dot requires a shift in mindset. Instead of focusing on the front sight, you’re focusing on the target and letting the dot float into place. It’s a different kind of shooting—faster, arguably more intuitive, but it takes practice.
“Red dot shooting is target-focused shooting. You don’t look at the dot—you look at the target.”
If you’re making the jump from irons to red dots on a 1911 platform, the Colt Competition Series makes that transition seamless.
Beyond the gear, the fundamentals still matter. The 1911’s manual thumb safety is easy to engage and disengage during movement, reloads, or stage transitions. But remember: match safety rules apply—especially with 180-degree boundaries and movement under time.
“Don’t break that 180. It’s especially important during movement and reloading.”
Whether you're a 1911 purist, a red-dot convert, or just someone who appreciates good gear, the Colt Optics Ready 1911 Competition Series strikes a smart balance between heritage and innovation. It’s ready for matches, it’s ready for range days, and it’s more than ready to help you shave seconds off your stage times.
“If you like accessorizing your guns, if you like red dots, and you love 1911s—Colt is your people.”