The EAA Witness Untouchable 1911 has quickly gained a reputation as a compelling contender in the crowded 1911 market. This review delves deep into its features, performance, and overall value, providing you with the information you need to determine if it's the right 1911 for you. We'll examine its build quality, accuracy, reliability, and compare it to other pistols in its price range. The EAA Witness Untouchable 1911 offers a unique blend of features at a competitive price point, making it a serious option for both experienced shooters and those new to the 1911 platform.
Build Quality and Features of the EAA Witness Untouchable 1911
The EAA Witness Untouchable 1911 boasts a solid build, largely exceeding expectations for a pistol in its price bracket. While not crafted from the highest-grade materials like some custom 1911s, the components are well-made and exhibit a level of precision that's quite impressive. Let's break down the key features:
Frame and Slide:
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Material: The frame is typically constructed from forged steel, providing a robust and durable foundation. The slide, also steel, is well-finished and shows a noticeable level of attention to detail.
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Finish: The finish is generally a durable black coating, offering good protection against corrosion and wear. Some models may offer different finish options.
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Fit and Finish: The fit and finish are surprisingly tight for a production pistol at this price point. While not perfectly tight, the tolerances are well within acceptable limits for reliable functioning.
Internal Components:
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Trigger: The trigger is generally smooth and crisp, with a reasonably short reset, although some users have reported needing some minor tuning for optimal performance. This is quite common with many 1911s even in higher price ranges.
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Hammer: The hammer is well-made and functions reliably.
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Sights: Typically, the Untouchable comes equipped with basic three-dot sights, offering sufficient accuracy for most shooting applications. Upgrading to night sights is a popular modification.
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Grips: The grips are usually polymer, offering a decent level of comfort and control. Aftermarket grips are easily available should you prefer a different feel or material.
Performance on the Range: Accuracy and Reliability of the EAA Witness Untouchable 1911
The EAA Witness Untouchable 1911 generally performs well on the range. Many users report excellent accuracy, especially at shorter distances. Reliability is also generally high, with few malfunctions reported in testing and user reviews.
Accuracy Testing:
Several independent reviews have shown the Untouchable to be capable of sub-2 inch groups at 25 yards with good ammunition, demonstrating satisfactory accuracy for its class. This is comparable to many much more expensive 1911s.
Reliability Testing:
Extensive testing by various reviewers showcases the EAA Witness Untouchable 1911's reliability. While not flawless, it performs well under a variety of conditions, including use with different types of ammunition.
Comparing the EAA Witness Untouchable 1911 to Competitors
The EAA Witness Untouchable 1911 competes directly with other budget-friendly 1911s from manufacturers such as Rock Island Armory and Springfield Armory. The Untouchable distinguishes itself with its relatively refined build quality and generally smooth trigger action. While some competitors might offer slightly more features, the Untouchable's balance of price and performance often makes it the preferred choice for many buyers. Below is a quick comparison table:
| Feature | EAA Witness Untouchable | Rock Island Armory 1911 | Springfield Armory Mil-Spec |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | Lower | Lower | Mid-Range |
| Build Quality | Good | Good | Excellent |
| Trigger | Good | Variable | Good |
| Accuracy | Excellent | Good | Excellent |
| Reliability | High | High | High |
Note: This comparison is based on general observations and may vary slightly depending on the specific model and year of production.
Conclusion: Is the EAA Witness Untouchable 1911 Right for You?
The EAA Witness Untouchable 1911 presents an excellent value proposition for those seeking a reliable and accurate 1911 at a more budget-friendly price point. Its solid build quality, generally good performance, and competitive price make it a strong contender in the market. While it may not match the premium features and craftsmanship of high-end 1911s, the Untouchable delivers impressive performance and reliability for its cost. If you're looking for a reliable 1911 for personal defense, target shooting, or just enjoying the classic 1911 platform, the EAA Witness Untouchable deserves serious consideration. Just be prepared to possibly need some minor tuning for a truly perfect trigger.