When you talk 1911s with any 1911 enthusiast, the name Bill Wilson will probably come up. Bill, and the company he founded, Wilson Combat, have long been synonymous with high-quality, custom 1911s—and they’ve been producing them since 1977. Over that time, models have come and gone, but one classic is about to make a remarkable return: the Sentinel.
SPECS
The Sentinel—the smallest 1911 ever produced by Wilson Combat. Reintroduced to meet popular demand.
The standard specs are as follows:
- Model(s): Sentinel, Sentinel XL
- Frame: Carbon Steel, Aluminum
- Caliber: 9mm, 9mm (or .38 Super)
- Capacity: 8
- Sights: Battlesight Rear with Fiber Optic Front Sight
- Optic Cut: No
- Barrel Length: 3.6”, 4”
- Overall Length: 7.2”, 7.6”
- Width at Grip: 1.3”
- Height: 4.8”
- Weight: 35.6 oz., 27.6 oz.
- Price: $4,085, $4,535
FEATURES
The Wilson Combat Sentinel returns as an ultra-compact 1911 platform built for deep concealment, now joined by the new Sentinel XL for added versatility. The original Sentinel stays true to its roots with a 3.6″ slide and a shortened grip frame—half an inch shorter than the Compact—making it exceptionally easy to conceal while still delivering full 1911 performance.
The Sentinel XL takes a different approach, pairing that same sub-compact grip with a 4″ Compact-length slide and an aluminum frame that is 60% lighter than steel, bringing total weight down to 27.6 ounces while improving sight radius, recoil control, and follow-up speed.
Both models are hand-fit in Berryville, Arkansas, and feature a match-grade stainless steel barrel, Bullet Proof thumb safety, fiber-optic front sight with serrated Battlesight rear, and a crisp 3.5–4.5 lbs. trigger. Backed by a 1.5-inch-at-25-yards accuracy guarantee, the platform also offers .38 Super chambering in the Sentinel XL.
ZOOMING OUT
The newly refreshed Sentinel and Sentinel XL may represent the pinnacle of a carry 1911 that remains true to the roots of what makes this classic handgun great. Naturally, this is a custom piece, built by master gunsmiths, so it commands a premium price. In return, you can be confident you’re getting one of the finest examples available.
For more new release news, head over to the Cadre Dispatch.
