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February 4, 2008
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As posted in the new military forum on this site, in WW1 the British government purchased an unknown quantity of Model 1911 shotguns from the UK agent for Winchester (and Colt), the London Armoury Company.
It is known that at least 25 were purchased but the true figure is likely in the low to middle hundreds. These guns were used for Ariel Gunnery Training by either the RFC or later the RAF.
As yet no examples have shown up with British military markings that i am aware of. It is not known for sure if any markings such as R.F.C. possibly with a month year date such as 10/17, were ever applied. Any gun that saw service would have British commercial London proof marks, which would have been applied when the guns were imported into the United Kingdom, irrespective if they were intended for military service or not.
So I have a request for anyone with a Model 1911 shotgun with British proof marks, could you please check if any other markings are present such as an Enfield inspection stamp, probably on the receiver or markings such as R.F.C. or R.A.F., on the stock or metal work. Many thanks!
Regards and Seasons Greetings
Alan David
Sydney
April 30, 2023
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Hi Alan, I was just reviewing your (older) post… I have 180ish 1911’s in my newish survey for that model and I have yet to come across any British proofed ones, at least in the photos I was able to view.
In the C&Rsenal youtube video on the Winchester model 1910, he references some U.S. military use of these for training and guard duty (see photo). Do you have other print info you can share about British service of the 1911? I am reading your other post in the military section right now…
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