The Colt M1911 .45 pistol is in a word: a classic. For 110 years it has set the standard when it comes to reliable semi-automatic handguns, and it is easy to see why the John Browning-design firearm has legions of fans. For collectors, absolutely nothing beats an original Colt model, but for modern shooters, there are now plenty of options that have improved upon the masterpiece.
Among the absolute best are Sig Sauers’ line of 1911s, which take Browning’s proven design and manage to make it all the better – living up to the company’s motto to “never settle.” The Sig Sauer 1911 Emperor Scorpion Full-Size is a pistol that combines the iconic century-old design with true 21st-century flare. The result is an advanced semi-auto pistol that is based on the Browning-designed, single-action, recoil-operated military sidearm. Ideal for everyday carry, home defense or a day at the range, the Emperor Scorpion features an integral 3-lug Picatinny rail for attaching aftermarket sights and lights.
The 1911 Emperor Scorpion features an FDE PVD coated stainless slide and frame, with low-profile, SIGLITE night sights, which are dovetailed into the slide. This can allow for rapid sight acquisition in any light, but has minimal interference when drawing or re-holstering the handgun.
Sig Sauer has added some features that modern shooters will appreciate, and that was before Browning’s time. These include a pronounced “memory bump” on the grip safety, which can provide reliable engagement along with consistent hold for greater accuracy. The finely checkered front strap, along with textured G10 mainspring housing and Hogue G10 Piranha Magwell grips also provide a secure, nonslip hold under all weather conditions. The Magwell grip can also serve as a funnel for rapid reloading.
The 1911 Emperor Scorpion has front and rear cocking serrations, which can enhance reliability when loading or clearing the handgun. It is a full-size model in every respect – it is 8.7 inches in length and has a five inch barrel. The handgun weighs in at a beefy 41.6 ounces empty, but you don’t choose a 1911 .45 when looking for a subcompact pistol. This Sig Sauer model will stand out in the crowded 1911 market however thanks to its customer “Flat Dark Earth PVD” finish, and subtle improvements. It is much like a custom 1911 without a lengthy customization process. It is a Browning design made better.
Sig Sauer 1911 Emperor Scorpion Specs:
FDE PVD coated stainless steel slide and frame
Low-profile, SIGLITE night sights
Ambidextrous thumb safety
Finely checkered front strap
G10 Piranha Magwell grips
G10 mainspring housing
Beavertail grip safety
Single action design
3-lug Picatinny rail
Caliber: 45 ACP
Mags included: Two eight round steel
Sights: SIGLITE
Size: Full-size
Overall Length: 8.7 inches
Overall Width: 1.4 inches
Barrel Length: 5 inches
Weight: 41.6 Ounces
Image: Sig Sauer.
Peter Suciu is a Michigan-based writer who has contributed to more than four dozen magazines, newspapers and websites. He regularly writes about military small arms, and is the author of several books on military headgear including A Gallery of Military Headdress, which is available on Amazon.com.
