Nowlin Arms Custom Model Match Classic 1911 9mm 5 1/8″ Semi-Auto Pistol
SOLD FOR: $2776
LSB#: 220317MG002
Make: Nowlin Custom
Model: Match Classic 1911
Serial Number: NM00236
Year of Manufacture: 1982-Date
Caliber/Gauge: 9mm
Action Type: Semi-Automatic Single Action Pistol Fed by Detachable Magazine. Please note, no magazine is included.
Markings: The right side of the frame is marked “NOWLIN MFG. CLARENCE, OK U.S.A. / NM002236”. The right side of the chamber is marked “NOWLIN 9 mm”. The right side of the slide is marked with the Nowlin Arms shield logo at the rear.
Barrel Length: 5 1/8”
Sights/ Optics: The front sight is a blade with a ramped serrated rear face that is dovetailed into the slide. The rear sight is a serrated square notch BoMar target sight dovetailed into the slide.
Stock Configuration & Condition/ Grip: The grips are two piece checkered wood panels with large smooth diamonds in the centers that are marked with Nowlin Arms shield logos. There are light handling marks, there are no chips or cracks. The checkering is sharp. Overall the grips are in about Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Hard Chrome with Blued Slide
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore but there is stubborn fouling in the grooves.
Overall Condition: The pistol retains about 95% of its finish. There is some thinning and finish loss on the leading edges of the slide. There is operational wear on the bottom of the slide in front of the dust cover. There are some little spots of faint surface oxidation on the right side of the slide at the rear. There are some spots of dark discoloration from previous oxidation on the hammer. There are a few light rubs scattered over the surfaces. There is a bit of light operational wear. The markings are clear. The grip screws are lightly worn. Overall this pistol is in Fine Plus condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this pistol. As with all used firearms, it may need a thorough cleaning to meet your maintenance standards.
Box Paperwork and Accessories: Included is an MCM hard case. Please note, no magazine is included.
Our Assessment: Colt’s 1911 served the United States military through two World Wars and several other conflicts, is still in use by some units today, and has become popular with law enforcement, competitors, and recreational shooters across the nation. The design has seen some updates including a firing-pin block safety, higher profile sights, and more ergonomic grips, but the basic design and fantastic trigger remain the same after more than a century. Due to its popularity and long life, the 1911 has also been a popular choice for custom pistols, with a wide variety of sights, barrels, parts, and popular modifications. This example is a custom Government Model made by Nowlin Arms. In a market flooded by inferior 1911 Auto parts, John Nowlin Sr. established himself as one of the top manufacturers of quality barrels, parts and tools for the 1911 Auto. Success was attributed to his passion to design and build “the best” 1911 Auto parts available. During this time John and his family were shooting competitively and he wanted to gain the competitive edge, which they soon did. It wasn’t long before top shooters began seeking John’s knowledge and products in order to place them in the winning circle. He also became an honored member of the American Pistolsmith’s Guild and served as a mentor to many well-known names in the shooting industry. Over the years, John Nowlin, Sr., his children and sponsored shooters enjoyed considerable success as competitors competing in USPSA, Bianchi Cup, and IDPA events at the local, national and world level. John’s custom pistols enjoyed more victories and created more champions than any custom shop in the 90’s. He understood what professional shooters wanted and needed to win and developed products to meet those strict standards. This is a prime example of how Nowlin Arms earned their reputation and something you should consider dropping for a podium finish at your next match. Please see our photos and good luck!