COLT GOVERNMENT MODEL 1991A1 – 24TH MARINE EXPEDITIONARY UNIT – CUSTOM – .45 ACP

Basic Information

Make: Colt
Model: Government Model 1991A1 (Custom Engraved)
Caliber: .45 ACP
Type: Semi-Automatic Pistol
Action: Single-Action Only (SAO), Hammer-Fired
Finish: Satin Stainless Steel
Barrel Length: 5″
Weight: Approx. 38–39 oz (unloaded)
Capacity: 7+1 rounds (standard single-stack magazine)

Sights:

• Fixed GI-style sights
• Dovetailed front and rear (variant dependent)

Safety Features:

• Frame-mounted thumb safety
• Grip safety
• Firing pin safety (Series 80 system typical of 1991A1 models)
• Half-cock notch

Material:

• Stainless steel frame
• Stainless steel slide
• Steel barrel
• Custom checkered wood grips with USMC emblem engraving

Unique Features (As Shown)

• Slide engraving: “24TH MARINE EXPEDITIONARY UNIT”
• Opposite slide engraving: “SEMPER FIDELIS”
• Marked “Colt Government Model”
• Custom Marine Corps emblem grip panels
• Likely commemorative or custom-engraved presentation piece
• Government-length dust cover and 5″ barrel profile

This appears to be a custom-engraved or commemorative Colt 1991A1, not a standard production configuration.

Usage and Applications

Recommended Use:

• Collector firearm
• Presentation or commemorative piece
• Target shooting
• 1911 enthusiasts

Performance Characteristics:
As a full-size Government Model 1911, this pistol offers:

• Excellent recoil control due to all-steel construction
• Crisp single-action trigger
• Proven .45 ACP reliability in traditional 1911 format
• Long sight radius for improved accuracy

Historical & Collector Context

The 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (24th MEU) is an active U.S. Marine Corps expeditionary force. Firearms engraved with military unit markings are typically:

• Commemorative editions
• Presentation pieces
• Custom shop or aftermarket engraved pistols

Important note:
Unless documented by Colt factory letter or official Marine Corps issuance, this would be considered a custom commemorative, not a military-issued sidearm.

Documentation significantly affects value.

Safety Information

• Treat all firearms as loaded.
• Keep muzzle pointed in a safe direction.
• Keep finger off trigger until ready to fire.
• Use only factory-loaded .45 ACP ammunition.
• Store unloaded in a locked secure safe.