The Legacy and the Platform
The world of concealed carry firearms is vast and varied, a landscape populated by a multitude of options designed to suit individual needs and preferences. From polymer-framed wonders to compact revolvers, the choices seem endless. Yet, amidst this diverse array, one design consistently commands respect and admiration: the 1911. This timeless platform, a century-old marvel of engineering, continues to reign supreme for many, offering a blend of classic design, inherent accuracy, and potent stopping power. And when you’re looking for the best of the best in a 1911 made for carry, the **Les Baer Custom Carry** stands tall.
Les Baer, a name synonymous with excellence in the world of custom firearms, has built a reputation on unwavering commitment to quality. Their pistols are crafted with precision, utilizing hand-fitting and an obsessive attention to detail that results in firearms of exceptional performance. The **Les Baer Custom Carry** embodies this ethos, representing a carefully curated package designed to deliver peak 1911 performance in a package suitable for daily concealed carry.
The 1911’s appeal transcends generations. Designed by John Browning and adopted by the US military over a century ago, the 1911 remains a testament to its ingenious design. Its single-action operation, inherent accuracy, and readily available chambering for powerful cartridges like the .45 ACP made it a legendary sidearm, and the core of this firearm lives on today. While newer designs have emerged, the 1911’s slim profile and manageable recoil, paired with the comfort and simplicity it offers, make it a strong contender for concealed carry. Its trigger pull, which is generally crisp and clean, also offers a distinct advantage for accurate and quick follow-up shots.
Beyond the platform’s inherent attributes, the 1911’s enduring popularity is also fueled by its versatility. A vast ecosystem of aftermarket parts allows for extensive customization. From grips to triggers, sights to slide finishes, a 1911 can be tailored to fit any individual’s requirements and preferences. However, some appreciate the out-of-the-box excellence, and that’s where a pistol like the **Les Baer Custom Carry** shines.
Les Baer’s Pursuit of Perfection
Les Baer’s approach to gunmaking is a refreshing throwback to a time when craft and dedication reigned supreme. Every **Les Baer Custom Carry**, and indeed, every firearm bearing the Les Baer name, is built to exacting standards. The process starts with meticulously selected components, chosen for their quality and durability. Frames and slides are often crafted from high-grade steel, chosen for their superior strength and the ability to withstand the rigors of hard use.
What truly sets Les Baer apart, however, is the level of hand-fitting employed. Skilled gunsmiths laboriously fit each component, ensuring a precise and seamless marriage of slide and frame. This dedication to detail not only contributes to the pistol’s exceptional accuracy but also enhances its overall reliability. This meticulous process results in a gun where the slide feels like it’s gliding on ball bearings. The trigger breaks with clarity and predictability, allowing for consistent shot placement.
Unveiling the Features: A Deep Dive
The **Les Baer Custom Carry** offers a compelling combination of features. Let’s delve into the specifics that make this pistol a standout in the world of concealed carry 1911s.
Caliber and Build
The **Les Baer Custom Carry** is primarily chambered in .45 ACP, the classic cartridge synonymous with the 1911. It can also be had in 9mm. The frame and slide are constructed from forged steel, providing a solid and durable foundation.
The Heart of the Matter – The Barrel
A match-grade barrel is essential for accuracy. Les Baer outfits each **Custom Carry** with a premium barrel, carefully fitted to ensure optimal performance. This barrel is typically hand-fitted and lapped to ensure the best possible accuracy.
The Grip of Control
The grips of the **Les Baer Custom Carry** are usually crafted from G10, a durable and highly textured composite. The texture of the grips enhances the shooter’s grip, even under adverse conditions like wet hands or during rapid fire. This translates directly to better control and quicker follow-up shots.
The Trigger’s Touch
The trigger is a critical component of any firearm, and the **Les Baer Custom Carry** excels in this regard. The trigger pull is typically crisp, clean, and breaks around a weight chosen for a balance of safety and performance. This smooth trigger is crucial for consistent shot placement and fast follow-up shots.
Sights on Target
The sights are designed for practical use. They are usually a high-visibility configuration that’s easily acquired, even in less-than-ideal lighting conditions. Some models feature night sights for enhanced visibility in low-light situations. These sights are rugged and hold zero even after many rounds, which is crucial for a carry weapon.
Performance: Putting It to the Test
The true measure of any firearm lies in its performance on the range. The **Les Baer Custom Carry** doesn’t disappoint in this respect.
Accuracy: A Hall Mark
Les Baer guarantees its pistols to shoot with incredible accuracy. The **Custom Carry** boasts accuracy that is often better than other manufacturers. This level of accuracy is achieved by the hand-fitting, the match-grade barrel, and the exceptional trigger. Shooters can expect tight groupings, even at extended distances. This inherent accuracy translates to increased confidence and the ability to make precise shots when needed.
Reliability: The Foundation of Trust
Reliability is paramount in any firearm intended for self-defense. The tight tolerances that contribute to the accuracy of the **Les Baer Custom Carry** can sometimes require a break-in period, which is a necessary step that must be taken into consideration for optimum performance. However, once broken in, the **Custom Carry** is typically extremely reliable. Les Baer meticulously tests each pistol before it leaves the factory, ensuring that it functions flawlessly under a variety of conditions. Proper maintenance and lubrication are essential for continued reliable performance.
The Shooting Experience
The **Les Baer Custom Carry** feels superb in hand. The ergonomics of the 1911 platform, combined with the quality of the grips and trigger, create an enjoyable shooting experience. The pistol’s recoil is manageable, even with the potent .45 ACP cartridge. The crisp trigger allows for precise shot placement, and the overall balance of the pistol inspires confidence.
Navigating the Realm of Concealed Carry
The **Les Baer Custom Carry**, while exceptionally well-suited for concealed carry, does require some consideration given its size and weight.
Size and Scale
The **Custom Carry** typically features a compact overall length and a shorter barrel (around 4.25″), making it relatively easier to conceal compared to full-size 1911s. However, the steel frame adds weight.
Concealment Strategies
Due to its dimensions, the **Les Baer Custom Carry** pairs well with various concealed carry methods. Inside-the-waistband (IWB) holsters are a popular choice, offering excellent concealment and all-day comfort. Outside-the-waistband (OWB) holsters are another viable option, particularly when wearing a jacket or loose-fitting garments. Appendix carry is also an option for experienced carriers. The key is to find a holster that provides a secure fit and allows for comfortable all-day carry.
The Comfort Equation
While the **Les Baer Custom Carry** might be heavier than some polymer-framed options, its well-designed grip and overall balance contribute to a comfortable carrying experience. The quality of the holster and the shooter’s build also play significant roles in the comfort equation. Proper holster selection and adjustment are essential for preventing discomfort and ensuring consistent concealment.
Ammunition Choices
Like any firearm, the **Les Baer Custom Carry** performs best with quality ammunition. Choosing reliable and consistent ammunition is key. Consider practicing with your chosen carry rounds to familiarize yourself with their recoil and point of impact.
The Upsides and Downsides: A Balanced Perspective
Every firearm has its strengths and weaknesses. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of the **Les Baer Custom Carry**:
Advantages
- Exceptional Accuracy: Les Baer’s commitment to accuracy is evident in every shot.
- Superior Build Quality: The use of premium materials and meticulous craftsmanship ensures long-lasting durability.
- Impressive Reliability: Once broken in, the **Custom Carry** is known for its dependability.
- Ergonomics: The 1911 platform, combined with well-designed grips, makes this pistol comfortable to hold and shoot.
- Resale Value: Les Baer pistols generally retain their value well, thanks to their reputation and the quality of their construction.
Disadvantages
- Price Point: The **Les Baer Custom Carry** represents a significant investment.
- Break-in Period: Some owners report a break-in period is needed to ensure optimal functionality.
- Maintenance Demands: Like any precision firearm, the **Custom Carry** requires regular cleaning and maintenance.
- May Not Be Suitable for Beginners: Due to the tight tolerances, the **Custom Carry** might require a degree of experience and familiarity with the 1911 platform.
- Availability: Depending on the model and finish, these may not always be readily available.
Comparing and Contrasting
Several other manufacturers compete in the high-end 1911 market. Brands like Wilson Combat, Nighthawk Custom, and Ed Brown also offer exceptional handguns designed for carry and duty. However, the **Les Baer Custom Carry** provides a compelling alternative. While competitors may offer similar levels of craftsmanship and accuracy, Les Baer’s focus on a specific set of design features, combined with the company’s long-standing reputation, makes it a strong contender. Choosing between these top-tier manufacturers often comes down to personal preference and the specific features that appeal to each individual.
Is it the Right Choice?
The **Les Baer Custom Carry** is a premium handgun, designed for those who demand the best in terms of performance, quality, and reliability.
For seasoned shooters, especially those who appreciate the 1911 platform and its inherent qualities, the **Les Baer Custom Carry** offers an exceptional shooting experience. The pistol’s accuracy, build quality, and comfortable ergonomics make it a joy to shoot. It’s a firearm that can be carried with confidence, knowing that it is built to perform when it matters most.
However, this is not a pistol for everyone. The price point places it squarely in the premium segment of the market. Furthermore, the **Custom Carry’s** precision design and tight tolerances may require a higher degree of care and maintenance than some other firearms. For beginners, the complexity of the 1911 platform and its associated maintenance requirements might prove to be a steeper learning curve.
Concluding Thoughts
The **Les Baer Custom Carry** is a testament to the enduring appeal of the 1911 platform. It showcases the craftsmanship and dedication to quality that define Les Baer’s approach to gunmaking. If you’re seeking a high-end, reliable, and accurate 1911 for concealed carry, the **Les Baer Custom Carry** is a worthy contender. It represents an investment in quality, a commitment to performance, and the assurance of owning a firearm built to last.
Before making a final decision, it’s always wise to research, compare, and consider your specific needs and preferences. Handling the gun at a local gun shop or range can provide invaluable insight into its ergonomics and handling characteristics. The **Les Baer Custom Carry**, with its exceptional qualities, offers an outstanding package to carry and is a fine example of what is possible with the venerable 1911 design.
