Sig Sauer 1911 Max Michel CO2 Blowback Steel BB gun

Note: This Tabletop review pertains to two products: the Sig Sauer 1911 Max Michel Blowback CO2 BB Pistol and the Sig Sauer 1911 Spartan Blowback CO2 BB Pistol.

Type: BB Pistol
Manufacturer: Sig Sauer
Model: 1911
Materials: Full metal build
Weight: 934 g (2.06 lb)
Barrel: 127 mm (5 in), non-rifled
Power Source: 12 g CO2 x 1
Action: Semi-automatic, blowback, single action only
Ammo Type: 4.5 mm steel BBs
Ammo Capacity: 16 rounds
FPS: 410

Buy the magazine: SIG1051

Trigger Action: Outstanding! Mirroring the classic 1911, it operates on a single-action-only mechanism, leading to exceptionally short and light trigger pulls on both Sig Sauer 1911 models. For an added layer of authenticity, activating the functional back strap safety is necessary to fire, akin to the original 1911 design.

Precision: Opting to test solely the Spartan due to its mechanical similarities to the Max Michel, barring aesthetic differences that don't affect performance, my initial FPS testing encountered a minor hiccup requiring a couple of attempts before achieving consistent readings. Subsequently, I managed an average of roughly 370 FPS, peaking near 400 on the highest shot. During accuracy testing from a distance of 30 feet in a standard shooting stance, I achieved a tight grouping with 8 of 10 shots within two inches, the remaining two slightly expanding the overall grouping. The Sig Sauer Spartan BB Pistol exhibited excellent balance in shot placement, although it tended to hit slightly high.

Construction Quality: The Spartan and Max Michel models boast robust construction, offering a solid feel with all components operating smoothly and tightly. The finish is durable, showing resilience against wear. The use of metal is extensive, excluding the magazines, with even key components such as the safety, magazine release, and slide catch being made of metal, though a metal magazine would have been preferable.

Authenticity: Both models are closely modeled after their real steel counterparts, capturing the essence of the original design with a few exceptions, such as the absence of under-barrel rails found on the actual firearms. The airguns are complete with adjustable sights, full Sig Sauer licensing, and branding, making them faithful replicas of the Sig Sauer 1911 firearms.

Pros:

• The full metal construction ensures a substantial weight.
• Accurately replicates the real steel Sig Sauer 1911 pistols.
• Features a smooth single-action trigger.
• Embellished with complete Sig Sauer markings and licensing.
• The CO2 can be easily inserted thanks to the cam lever system.
• Includes a functional grip safety, replicating the 1911 design.
• Provides a satisfactory blowback sensation.
• Offers a higher FPS compared to KWC 1911 models.
• Equipped with white dots on both front and rear sights for enhanced visibility.
• Features a bottom rail for attaching accessories.

Cons:

• The use of a plastic magazine lessens the realism of reloading.
• The rail feature deviates from the design of the original Sig Sauer pistols.
• The sights are fixed and lack adjustability.
• A more recessed barrel design would have been preferred.
• The CO2 compartment cover may detach too readily.

Comments:

While full-size drop-out metal magazines are highly sought after for their realism, the presence of a stick magazine here enhances CO2 efficiency, potentially offering increased power and more shots per CO2 cartridge. This feature may appeal particularly to those dissatisfied with the lower FPS of KWC 1911 models. The substantial blowback effect of the Sig Sauer Spartan and Max Michel CO2 BB Pistols was unexpectedly robust, notably when the CO2 cartridge was fresh. The trigger quality and overall feel of these Sig Sauer 1911 models make them strong competitors to the KWC 1911 blowback airguns. If the plastic magazine is not a significant deterrent, owning a Spartan or Max Michel Sig Sauer could prove to be a satisfying experience, combining enhanced firepower with detailed craftsmanship.