Description
The Browning 1911-22 Black Label Medallion (.22 LR, 4.25″) gives you the look and feel of a classic 1911 in an affordable rimfire package. It is designed for shooters who want to train with the same controls and ergonomics as a full-size 1911 without the cost of centerfire ammo. This pistol is built for recreational shooting, target practice, and building fundamental skills.
| Manufacturer | Browning |
|---|---|
| Model | 1911-22 Black Label Medallion |
| Material | Stainless steel barrel, aluminum alloy frame, steel slide |
| Compatibility | .22 LR ammunition; accepts standard 1911-22 magazines (10-round) |
| Finish | Matte black finish on frame and slide; corrosion-resistant stainless steel barrel |
| Weight | 15.5 oz (empty, per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Classic 1911 Styling & Controls – Why it matters: You get the same thumb safety, grip safety, and slide release as a full-size 1911, so your muscle memory transfers directly to your centerfire pistol. The single-action trigger breaks cleanly at around 5 pounds, consistent with a service 1911.
- Maple Medallion Grips – Why it matters: These grips provide a secure, comfortable hold and add a premium look that sets this pistol apart from basic rimfire trainers. The wood also absorbs some vibration, making extended range sessions more pleasant.
- 4.25″ Stainless Steel Barrel – Why it matters: The barrel is corrosion-resistant and gives you a sight radius that matches many compact 1911s. This helps you practice sight alignment and trigger control with the same geometry you use on a carry gun.
- Serrated Slide & Dovetail Sights – Why it matters: The serrations give you a positive grip for press checks and slide manipulations, while the dovetailed front and rear sights allow for windage adjustment. Per Browning, the sights are set for a 15-yard zero out of the box.
- Lightweight & Compact Profile – Why it matters: At 15.5 ounces and just over 7 inches overall length, this pistol is easy to pack in a range bag or use for plinking. The reduced weight also helps newer shooters hold the gun steady during drills.
Who It’s For
This pistol is for shooters who want to train with a 1911 platform but don’t want to shoot expensive .45 ACP every session. It is also a solid choice for new shooters learning proper grip, trigger press, and safety manipulation on a familiar manual of arms. If you already own a full-size 1911, the Black Label Medallion gives you a rimfire trainer that mirrors its controls and feel.
Pros & Cons
- Pro: Reliable feeding with high-velocity .22 LR ammo, per user reports and Browning’s testing.
- Pro: Authentic 1911 ergonomics in a lightweight, low-recoil package.
- Con: The aluminum-alloy frame can show holster wear faster than steel frames. This is cosmetic, not functional, but worth noting if you plan to carry it.
Comparison
| Feature | Browning 1911-22 Black Label Medallion | GSG 1911-22 | Walther PPQ .22 LR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .22 LR | .22 LR | .22 LR |
| Barrel Length | 4.25″ | 5.0″ | 4.0″ |
| Weight (empty) | 15.5 oz | 36 oz | 19.4 oz |
| Frame Material | Aluminum alloy | Zinc alloy | Polymer |
| Controls | 1911-style thumb & grip safety | 1911-style thumb & grip safety | Walther-style paddle mag release |
| MSRP | $582.70 | ~$350 | ~$450 |
FAQ
Is this pistol compatible with standard 1911 holsters?
Yes, the Browning 1911-22 Black Label Medallion fits most full-size 1911 holsters designed for 4.25″ to 5″ barrels. The slide profile is slightly narrower than a standard 1911, so leather holsters may be snug at first. Kydex holsters with adjustable retention work best.
What type of .22 LR ammo does it prefer?
Browning recommends high-velocity .22 LR ammunition (1200+ fps) for reliable cycling. Standard-velocity target loads may cause failures to eject. I have found CCI Mini-Mag and Federal AutoMatch run consistently in this pistol.
Can I install aftermarket grips on this pistol?
Yes. The Browning 1911-22 uses the same grip screw spacing as a standard 1911, so most full-size 1911 grips will fit. You may need to trim the grip bushing length if the screws are too long.
Is the barrel threaded for a suppressor?
No. The barrel is not threaded and there are no factory threaded barrel options for this model. If you want a suppressed .22 1911, look at the Browning 1911-22 Compact with a threaded barrel.
Call to Action
Add the Browning 1911-22 Black Label Medallion to your training battery and start shooting more for less. Order now for nationwide delivery (all 50 states), ships in 1-2 business days, 30-day returns, and secure checkout. Browse more semi-auto handguns or check our .22 LR pistols for additional training options.
Last updated: April 2026
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