Nighthawk Custom, an American firearm company based in Berryville, Arkansas, has become synonymous with precision, craftsmanship, and the art of firearm making.
Greg | 16 October 2024
Among their impressive range of 1911 variants, the Nighthawk 1911 AAC (Advanced Armament Corporation) stands out as one of the finest expressions of their philosophy of “One Gun, One Gunsmith.” This unique model not only upholds the high standards of the M1911 design but also incorporates modern enhancements that make it highly desirable for competition shooters, military personnel, law enforcement agencies, and individuals looking for superior self-defense options.
My FFL guy Benny (pictured above) acquired a Nighthawk with the same "Battleworn" finish last year. When I began my search for a .45 ACP with threaded barrel, I ran across this new in the bag (NIB) 2014 gun up for auction. I knew the price would be considerable, however I also knew that I would not find a better .45 ACP with threaded barrel.
To appreciate the significance of the Nighthawk 1911 AAC, one must first understand the history of the M1911 pistol itself. Designed by the legendary John Browning, the M1911 was adopted by the United States military in 1911 as its standard-issue sidearm. Over the next several decades, it became one of the most iconic firearms in American history, serving soldiers in World War I, World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Its durability, stopping power, and ease of use made it a favorite among military personnel, and its .45 ACP cartridge earned a reputation for effectiveness in combat.
The M1911's design has remained largely unchanged since its inception, a testament to its original brilliance. However, in the hands of companies like Nighthawk Custom, this platform has been elevated into the modern era with advancements in materials, tolerances, and custom features that make it relevant for today's users. The 1911 AAC is a prime example of how Nighthawk has taken the original design and enhanced it for modern applications without sacrificing the gun’s classic appeal.
The 1911 AAC is the result of a collaboration between Nighthawk Custom and Advanced Armament Corporation (AAC), a company known for its expertise in sound suppression (silencers) and firearms technology. This partnership aimed to create a pistol that was optimized for suppressor use while maintaining the core qualities that made the M1911 so revered. The 1911 AAC reflects Nighthawk’s dedication to combining tradition with innovation, offering a firearm that stays true to its roots while also embracing cutting-edge technology.
The 1911 AAC was designed with tactical applications in mind, making it an ideal choice for military, law enforcement, and serious self-defense practitioners. Its ability to be used with a suppressor appeals to operators who need stealth in critical situations, while competition shooters appreciate its precision, balance, and smooth operation. The 1911 AAC stands as a testament to Nighthawk's ability to take a classic design and reimagine it for the demands of the 21st century.
The 1911 AAC showcases Nighthawk Custom’s renowned attention to detail, quality craftsmanship, and innovative design features that distinguish it from other 1911 variants on the market.
Below are some of the most important aspects of the 1911 AAC that make it a top-tier choice for serious firearm enthusiasts:
Is it worth several thousand dollars? Oh yes.Would you buy it again? Definitely. The above listed features are what drew me to this gun. In my opinion, the quality is unrivaled.
Through their collaboration with Advanced Armament Corporation and their unwavering commitment to craftsmanship, Nighthawk has created a firearm that appeals to serious users across a broad spectrum of applications.
My search for the best match-grade .45 ACP threaded barrel ended with the Nighthawk AAC.
The meticulous attention to detail, custom features, and superior performance make it one of the finest firearms I've ever owned. In a world of mass-produced firearms, the Nighthawk 1911 AAC is a shining example of what is possible when quality, precision, and craftsmanship come first.
My MOS when I served in the United States Army was 76Y. For you non-military readers, the Military Occupational Specialty of 76 Yankee means that I was a Unit Armorer. While on REFORGER 85, I trained with German Paratroopers and qualified as "Expert" with the German G-3 rifle, the Israeli Uzi 9mm sub-machinegun and the 9mm handgun.