Introduction
The 1911 pistol. A name whispered with respect and reverence among firearms enthusiasts. Born from the ingenuity of John Browning over a century ago, the 1911’s design has proven its enduring appeal. Its single-action trigger, ergonomic design, and powerful cartridge options have made it a favorite among shooters and collectors alike. And within the world of 1911s, certain manufacturers consistently rise above the rest, crafting pistols that exemplify the art of firearm making. Dan Wesson is undoubtedly one of those names.
Dan Wesson Firearms has established itself as a premier producer of high-quality 1911s, known for their exceptional craftsmanship, performance, and value. They stand apart by building on the legacy of the platform while incorporating modern techniques and a commitment to excellence. The *Dan Wesson Valor* represents a significant step up, positioned as a performance-driven 1911 designed to cater to shooters who demand precision, reliability, and enduring quality. This review delves deep into the Valor, exploring its features, performance, and the overall experience it offers.
An Overview of the Dan Wesson Valor
The Valor occupies a prominent position in the Dan Wesson line-up, falling into the “Duty” series, built for serious use. It’s a pistol designed to perform, whether it’s for competitive shooting, self-defense, or simply the enjoyment of a finely crafted firearm. The Valor embodies the ideal of what a modern 1911 should be: a robust, reliable, and accurate handgun.
The Valor is typically offered in a chambering suited to the task. The prevalent choices include the classic forty-five ACP (Automatic Colt Pistol), and nine-millimeter Luger, with its rising popularity. Capacity depends on the cartridge selected, and the Valor’s design allows for reasonable magazine capacities. The pistol features a five-inch barrel, a common length for full-size 1911s that strikes a good balance between accuracy and handling. The Valor’s construction, with its precision fit and refined details, immediately sets it apart. Several finish options are typically available, including stainless steel or coated black.
Construction and Key Characteristics
Frame and Slide
The heart of the Dan Wesson Valor is its robust construction. The frame is typically crafted from forged carbon steel, offering incredible strength and durability. This ensures that the Valor can withstand the rigors of extensive use. The slide may be constructed from forged carbon steel or stainless steel. The use of forged materials rather than cast components contributes significantly to the longevity and resilience of the pistol. These forgings undergo meticulous machining and hand-fitting, resulting in tight tolerances and a near-seamless operation.
The care taken in the fit and finish of the Valor is immediately noticeable. The slide-to-frame fit is exceptionally tight, minimizing any play and contributing to enhanced accuracy. Every edge is carefully beveled and smoothed, providing a comfortable feel and adding to the overall aesthetics. The slide serrations are precisely cut, offering a secure grip for manipulating the slide, even with wet hands. The frame often includes front strap checkering, allowing for a secure grip in all conditions.
Barrel and Bushing
The Valor features a match-grade barrel, typically crafted from stainless steel. This barrel is hand-fitted to the slide and frame, ensuring exceptional accuracy. The barrel is typically supported by a solid, full-length guide rod, further contributing to the pistol’s stability and smooth cycling. The barrel bushing is another critical component. The carefully fitted bushing ensures a tight lock-up between the barrel and slide, which is crucial for consistent shot placement.
Sights
The sights on the Valor are usually designed for practical shooting. The sights commonly feature a three-dot configuration, offering a clear and intuitive sight picture. These sights are typically made of high-quality materials that are built to withstand the demands of regular use. The rear sight is often a Novak-style, which provides a robust and reliable platform. The sights are easily acquired and allow for rapid target acquisition.
Grips
The grips on the Valor contribute to its comfortable and secure feel. The grips themselves are typically made of G10, a durable and textured composite material. The checkering on the grips provides an excellent purchase, even when the hands are wet or sweaty. The overall ergonomics are well-considered, allowing for a natural and comfortable shooting experience. The grips also typically include beveled edges and an overall fit that complements the hand.
Trigger
The trigger on the Valor is a standout feature. The trigger mechanism is meticulously tuned to provide a crisp, clean break. The trigger pull is typically light, enabling the shooter to execute precise shots. The trigger reset is short and tactile, allowing for rapid follow-up shots. The feel of the trigger is a significant factor in the Valor’s exceptional performance.
Other Features
Other features enhance the Valor’s functionality and ergonomics. The Valor often includes an extended magazine release, making it easier to quickly drop the magazine for reloads. The beavertail grip safety is another feature that enhances safety and comfort. This safety prevents the pistol from firing unless it’s properly gripped. The Valor’s overall design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Experiencing the Performance
The Dan Wesson Valor shines in how it performs at the range. The accuracy potential of this pistol is remarkable. Consistently tight shot groups at the target are the norm. The hand-fitting, match-grade barrel, and tight tolerances all contribute to this impressive level of precision. The Valor is designed to perform at the highest level.
Reliability is another area where the Valor excels. The pistol is typically fed with a variety of ammunition, including various bullet weights and types, and has no issues. The tight tolerances and quality components contribute to its smooth and consistent operation.
The recoil impulse of the Valor, even with the hefty forty-five ACP, is manageable, and the overall handling is superb. The full-size frame and well-balanced design help to mitigate recoil and allow for quick follow-up shots. The Valor sits well in the hand, offering a comfortable and confident grip.
The Valor’s ergonomics, combined with its excellent trigger and overall build quality, make it a joy to shoot for extended periods. The grip angle is comfortable, the sights are easily acquired, and the trigger allows for precise shot placement. The Valor inspires confidence with every shot.
The Good and the Not-So-Good
The Valor has several undeniable strengths. Its outstanding build quality is a standout feature. The meticulous hand-fitting and high-quality components result in a pistol that feels exceptionally solid and well-made. The accuracy is another major advantage. The match-grade barrel and tight tolerances contribute to its impressive shot groupings. The trigger is one of the best factory triggers available on any 1911. The reliability of the Valor, is high, allowing for smooth and consistent operation.
There are some potential drawbacks to consider. The price point is higher than other manufacturers. This, however, reflects the high quality of components and craftsmanship. Some shooters may prefer different sight options, although the standard sights are perfectly functional for most users. Overall, these are minor considerations that don’t diminish the exceptional quality of the Valor.
Value and Comparison
When considering the price, it’s essential to compare the Valor to other premium 1911s. The Valor delivers a exceptional value. While the initial investment may be substantial, the quality of construction, the performance, and the overall experience justify the cost. The Valor competes well with other high-end 1911s from companies like Colt, Springfield Armory, and others. The Valor arguably offers a better value proposition because of its excellent build quality, out-of-the-box accuracy, and outstanding trigger.
The Verdict
The Dan Wesson Valor is a premium 1911 that lives up to its reputation. It’s a pistol that embodies the best qualities of the 1911 platform: durability, accuracy, and reliability. The exceptional craftsmanship, the attention to detail, and the overall performance make the Valor an outstanding choice for discerning shooters. This is an investment that pays off every time you pull the trigger.
Whether you are a seasoned shooter, a competitive marksman, or a first-time owner, the Valor is a compelling choice. It’s a pistol that inspires confidence, delivers exceptional performance, and provides a lifetime of shooting enjoyment. The Dan Wesson Valor is a pistol that delivers on its promise.
Final Thoughts
The Dan Wesson Valor is more than just a pistol; it’s a testament to the art of gun making. It’s a pistol designed for those who appreciate quality, performance, and the legacy of the 1911. Dan Wesson has truly delivered a winner with the Valor.
The Dan Wesson Valor, as you might expect from a top-tier manufacturer, is more than just a range toy; it’s a serious tool. This pistol can be relied upon for defense. It’s an investment in quality and performance that a shooter will not regret.
