Introduction
The world of 1911 pistols is a realm of heritage, craftsmanship, and unwavering performance. Amongst the many manufacturers vying for the attention of discerning shooters, Dan Wesson holds a unique position, renowned for their commitment to quality and precision engineering. They consistently deliver 1911s that are built to perform, and among their impressive lineup, the Vigil series stands out, particularly the Dan Wesson Vigil Commander. This article provides a comprehensive look at this carry-focused handgun, delving into its specifications, performance, and suitability for both seasoned shooters and those considering their first 1911.
Introducing the Dan Wesson Vigil Commander, a pistol born from a desire to combine the classic elegance and reliability of the 1911 platform with the practical demands of concealed carry. While many 1911s are bulky and perhaps less suited for everyday carry, the Vigil series, and specifically the Commander model, addresses those concerns head-on. The goal is a firearm that’s easy to conceal, comfortable to handle, and, of course, utterly dependable when it matters most. This review explores whether the Dan Wesson Vigil Commander lives up to this promise.
Exploring Design and Features of the Vigil Commander
To truly understand the Dan Wesson Vigil Commander, we must examine its design and the features that make it a standout choice.
A Closer Look at the Core Elements
The Dan Wesson Vigil Commander is crafted with an eye for both functionality and aesthetics. The Commander configuration, distinguished by its 4.25-inch barrel, strikes a perfect balance. It offers a longer sight radius compared to shorter-barreled pistols, contributing to improved accuracy, while still remaining easily concealable. The frame of the Dan Wesson Vigil Commander is constructed from either stainless steel or lightweight aluminum, depending on the specific model. Stainless steel provides superior durability and a heavier feel, which can help manage recoil. Aluminum versions, however, offer a significant reduction in weight, making them more comfortable for all-day carry. The finish, also dependent on the model, often employs a durable coating to protect the pistol from the elements and the rigors of daily use. Regardless of the chosen materials, the craftsmanship is immediately apparent, with clean lines, precise tolerances, and a level of fit and finish that sets Dan Wesson apart.
The Slide and Frame: A Foundation of Reliability
The slide of the Dan Wesson Vigil Commander features forward and rear cocking serrations, providing a secure grip for manipulation under any condition. The markings are typically tastefully executed, avoiding excessive branding and maintaining a professional aesthetic. The frame, meticulously crafted, incorporates a beavertail grip safety, ensuring a positive engagement and preventing hammer bite. Checkering on the front strap and mainspring housing (depending on the specific model) enhances grip and control, even in wet or challenging conditions. The attention to detail extends throughout, creating a foundation for a pistol designed to perform flawlessly.
Sights and Sighting Systems
The sights on the Dan Wesson Vigil Commander are designed to aid rapid target acquisition. These might include a variety of options. Often, the pistol comes equipped with fixed sights, known for their durability and snag-free profile, or a more advanced sight such as night sights, which greatly improve visibility in low-light situations. These are frequently a three-dot configuration that is easy to acquire quickly under stress. The sight picture will be clear, the sight picture allows for precise shot placement, which, when combined with a consistent trigger pull and controlled recoil, leads to more accurate shooting.
Ergonomics and Intuitive Controls
The ergonomics of the Dan Wesson Vigil Commander are designed with the shooter in mind. The grip, carefully sculpted, allows for a secure and comfortable hold, facilitating natural pointing. The controls, including the safety, slide release, and magazine release, are readily accessible and placed to facilitate quick and intuitive operation. A well-designed 1911 should feel like an extension of the shooter’s hand, and the Dan Wesson Vigil Commander excels in this regard. The controls are easy to manipulate and are designed to be used, allowing the shooter to perform reloads and clear malfunctions quickly.
Trigger Performance
The trigger is a critical component of any firearm, and the Dan Wesson Vigil Commander boasts a trigger that’s a pleasure to use. It’s typically a crisp, clean-breaking trigger with a relatively short reset, allowing for rapid follow-up shots. The weight of the trigger pull is carefully tuned to provide a balance between safety and performance. This ensures a smooth and consistent pull, promoting accurate shooting. The feel of the trigger enhances the overall shooting experience.
Magazines and Capacity
The Dan Wesson Vigil Commander typically uses standard 1911 magazines. Depending on the caliber (usually 9mm or .45 ACP), the magazine capacity will vary, with 9mm offering a higher capacity. Magazine compatibility with readily available aftermarket magazines adds to the versatility and utility of the pistol. Reliability is paramount, and Dan Wesson typically includes high-quality magazines with the pistol to enhance reliability.
Performance and Handling Under Fire
Beyond its specifications, the true test of the Dan Wesson Vigil Commander lies in its performance on the range and in real-world scenarios.
Achieving Accuracy
The Dan Wesson Vigil Commander consistently delivers excellent accuracy. The combination of a well-fitted barrel, quality sights, and a crisp trigger allows shooters of all skill levels to achieve tight shot groups. The accuracy potential of this pistol makes it suitable for both target shooting and defensive purposes. The Commander’s barrel length provides a good sight radius.
Reliability in Action
Reliability is a cornerstone of any defensive firearm, and the Dan Wesson Vigil Commander generally excels in this area. The pistols are built to exacting standards, with tight tolerances and quality components, to minimize the potential for malfunctions. The pistol’s reliability is something that is consistent across various user reviews. Thorough testing is done during the production process, ensuring that it can handle a variety of ammunition types and environmental conditions.
Recoil Dynamics
The Dan Wesson Vigil Commander, with its Commander-length barrel, offers a manageable recoil impulse. The weight of the pistol and the ergonomics work together to mitigate felt recoil, making it easier to control and allowing for faster follow-up shots. The pistol feels balanced in the hand, contributing to the ability to stay on target.
Concealed Carry Suitability
The Dan Wesson Vigil Commander is specifically designed with concealed carry in mind. Its Commander-length barrel, combined with the overall size and weight (particularly in the aluminum-framed models), makes it relatively easy to conceal. The smooth edges and snag-free design enhance comfort and ease of drawing. The Dan Wesson Vigil Commander strikes a good balance between firepower, shootability, and concealability, making it a viable option for those seeking a reliable concealed carry handgun. The dimensions are ideal for this role, and it fits comfortably in various holsters.
Weighing the Pros and Cons
To make an informed decision, it’s essential to consider both the advantages and disadvantages of the Dan Wesson Vigil Commander.
The Upsides
The Dan Wesson Vigil Commander boasts numerous strengths. It’s known for its exceptional build quality, offering both durability and long-term performance. Its accuracy is often praised, the trigger performance is exceptional, and the reliability is generally very good. The carry-friendly design is a significant selling point. The pistol’s ergonomics make it comfortable to handle and shoot, making it a valuable choice.
The Potential Downsides
While the Dan Wesson Vigil Commander has many appealing features, there are a few considerations to bear in mind. The cost of the pistol is significant, with higher-end models being more expensive than competing firearms. Depending on the model and materials used, the weight could be a factor for some shooters, particularly those who are new to concealed carry. Availability might also vary depending on the location.
Comparing to Other Handguns
When evaluating the Dan Wesson Vigil Commander, it’s helpful to compare it to other similar pistols.
The 1911 Field
Other 1911-style pistols, particularly those in the Commander size, compete with the Dan Wesson Vigil Commander. These pistols also focus on the classic 1911 design, often sharing similar features. The Dan Wesson Vigil Commander stands out for its build quality, superior features, and attention to detail. Other manufacturers that deserve consideration are Kimber and Springfield Armory, but the level of quality and accuracy is a step above with the Dan Wesson Vigil Commander.
Conclusion
The Dan Wesson Vigil Commander is a well-crafted 1911 that fulfills the promise of combining the classic design with modern practicality. Its exceptional build quality, excellent accuracy, and reliable performance make it a superb choice for those seeking a high-quality 1911. If you appreciate the 1911 platform and are looking for a pistol suitable for both defensive use and recreational shooting, the Dan Wesson Vigil Commander is definitely worth considering. Its design will appeal to many, but most of all those who want something reliable that they can depend on.
This pistol will serve you well, and is something you will treasure and enjoy for years to come. The overall balance and feel of the pistol is simply what a 1911 should be.
