The Charles Daly 1911 Field Grade is a full-size .45 ACP semi-automatic pistol on the classic 1911 platform. It has a 5-inch barrel, 8-round capacity, and a Parkerized black finish over steel construction. Wood grips give it a traditional look. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Manufacturer: Charles Daly 
• Model: 1911 Field Grade 
• Action: Semi-automatic 
• Type: 1911 
• Caliber: .45 ACP 
• Barrel Length: 5 inches 
• Capacity: 8 rounds 
• Weight: 2.5 lbs. 
• Finish: Parkerized (Black) 
   

Features 

 
The steel frame and slide are finished in Parkerized black, which is a matte military-style finish that resists corrosion reasonably well. Full-size 1911 frame fits most hands naturally and gives the pistol good balance. Wood grips are standard — they offer adequate traction and a classic feel. As a 1911-pattern pistol, it accepts most standard 1911 accessories and parts, which gives owners flexibility to upgrade sights, grips, or other components over time.

Owners of the Charles Daly 1911 Field Grade generally frame it as an accessible entry point into the 1911 platform. The price is consistently cited as the main draw — it gets you a full-size .45 ACP 1911 without the cost of Colt or Kimber. Range performance is frequently described as satisfactory, with reliable feeding and ejection reported across common ammunition types. The classic design appeals to collectors and traditionalists alike.

Quality control is the main concern. Fit and finish inconsistencies show up in enough user accounts to be a pattern, and a handful of owners have dealt with mechanical issues out of the box. Some units reportedly need a break-in period before cycling consistently. The pistol is also heavier and bulkier than modern polymer frames, which matters for carry but is expected from a full-size steel 1911. Most feedback lands in the same place: reasonable value for the price, but not a premium build.