Colt Gold Cup National Match 1911 .45 ACP 5″ Blued
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About this product
The Colt Gold Cup National Match 1911 .45 ACP 5" Blued is a Series 70 1911-pattern pistol built for serious target work and competitive shooting. It comes with a 5-inch National Match barrel and a classic blued finish, giving you the accuracy and feel that made this model a legend. Whether you're punching paper at the range or stepping into a match, this pistol delivers the consistency you need.
| Manufacturer | Colt (per manufacturer specs) |
|---|---|
| Model | Gold Cup National Match |
| Material | Steel frame and slide, stainless steel barrel |
| Compatibility | .45 ACP ammunition (standard .45 Auto) |
| Finish | Blued |
| Weight | Approximately 40 oz (unloaded, per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- National Match Barrel — This 5-inch stainless steel barrel is match-grade, cut to tight tolerances for consistent accuracy shot after shot. Why it matters: You get the precision needed for bullseye shooting and competition without custom work.
- Adjustable Bomar-Style Rear Sight — The rear sight is fully adjustable for windage and elevation, letting you dial in your point of impact. Why it matters: You can fine-tune your setup for different loads or distances, making it easier to stay on target.
- Skeletonized Trigger — The trigger is cut down to reduce weight and improve feel, with a crisp, clean break. Why it matters: Lighter trigger pull helps you shoot more accurately, especially in slow-fire stages.
- Traditional 1911 Ergonomics — It keeps the classic grip angle, thumb safety, and slide release that shooters trust. Why it matters: If you already shoot 1911s, this feels like home. If you're new, it's a comfortable platform to learn on.
- Series 70 Firing System — No firing pin safety block, which means a simpler trigger pull and easier maintenance. Why it matters: Many target shooters prefer this setup for its consistent trigger feel and reliability.
Who It's For
This Colt Gold Cup National Match is built for target shooters and competition shooters who want a factory-ready pistol that's accurate right out of the box. It's also a solid choice for collectors who appreciate the history of the Gold Cup line, or for new shooters who want to start with a high-quality 1911 that will grow with their skills. If you're serious about hitting the X-ring, this is your gun.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Match-grade barrel gives you excellent accuracy; adjustable sights let you customize your zero; skeletonized trigger improves feel and control; classic 1911 design is reliable and easy to maintain; Series 70 system keeps the trigger consistent.
- Cons: The blued finish requires more care than stainless steel or parkerized finishes — it can show wear faster if you don't keep it oiled and stored properly. Also, the Bomar-style rear sight can be a bit sharp for concealed carry, but this gun is really meant for the range, not daily carry.
Comparison: Colt Gold Cup vs. Zev Technologies OZ9 vs. Agency Arms AOS 1911
| Feature | Colt Gold Cup National Match | Zev Technologies OZ9 | Agency Arms AOS 1911 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .45 ACP | 9mm | .45 ACP |
| Barrel Length | 5 inches | 4.5 inches | 5 inches |
| Weight (unloaded) | ~40 oz | ~25 oz | ~38 oz |
| Sights | Adjustable Bomar-style | Adjustable fiber optic | Adjustable rear |
| Price | ~$1,339 | ~$1,800 | ~$2,500 |
| Best For | Target/competition | Competition/tactical | Custom/competition |
The Colt Gold Cup gives you a proven match-grade 1911 at a price that's hard to beat. The Zev OZ9 is lighter and more modern, but costs more and is in 9mm. The Agency Arms AOS is a premium custom build that's significantly pricier. If you want a classic .45 target pistol with factory accuracy, the Colt is the smart buy.
FAQ
Is the Colt Gold Cup National Match safe for use with +P ammunition?
Colt does not recommend using +P ammunition in the Gold Cup National Match. The gun is designed for standard-pressure .45 ACP loads. Using +P can accelerate wear and may affect accuracy. Stick with factory target loads for best performance.
Does this pistol come with a case or any accessories?
Yes, the Colt Gold Cup National Match typically ships in a cardboard box with one 7-round magazine, a bushing wrench, and a cable lock. Some retailers may include additional items, so check with your dealer.
What kind of accuracy can I expect from the National Match barrel?
Per Colt specs, the National Match barrel is cut to tighter tolerances than standard 1911 barrels. Many shooters report 2-inch groups at 25 yards from a rest with quality ammunition. Your results will depend on ammo and technique.
Can I use this pistol for concealed carry?
You can, but it's not ideal. The 5-inch barrel and full-size steel frame make it heavy and bulky for carry. Plus, the adjustable rear sight can snag on clothing. This gun is really built for the range or competition, not daily concealment.
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Last updated: April 2026
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