The Howa M-1911 is a compact .45 ACP pistol with a 3.5-inch barrel and ALTAMONT hardwood grips. The blued frame with matte black finish gives it a traditional look in a shortened 1911 format. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Manufacturer: Howa 
• Model: M-1911 
• Caliber: .45 ACP 
• Barrel Length: 3.5 inches 
• Total Length: 7.5 inches 
• Weight: 3.8 pounds 
• Capacity: 6 rounds 
• Action Type: Single action 
• Frame Finish: Blued 
• General Finish: Matte Black 
• Grip Material: ALTAMONT Hardwood 
• Sights Type: Novak 
   

Features 

 
At 3.5 inches the barrel is shorter than a standard Government-model 1911, which reduces overall length to 7.5 inches for easier carry. The Novak sights give a low-profile sight picture well suited to a carry gun. ALTAMONT hardwood grips fill the hand differently than rubber or polymer panels. They're firm and provide good purchase. Single-action trigger requires carrying with the thumb safety engaged. Capacity is 6 rounds, which is lower than most modern compact pistols at .45 ACP.

Feedback on the Howa M-1911 tends to split by priorities. Shooters who value traditional aesthetics and craftsmanship respond well to the blued finish and hardwood grips. Reliability and fit/finish draw positive remarks from that group.

The practical criticisms are consistent: at 3.8 lbs it's heavier than polymer compacts that offer higher capacity. Six rounds is a meaningful limitation compared to modern double-stack alternatives. Some owners report feeding issues with certain hollow-point ammunition. The 1911 platform's aftermarket is broad, but Howa-specific parts are less common. Most reviewers position it as a good choice for shooters who want a compact 1911 with traditional materials, with the understanding that they're trading capacity for that package.