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Detonics Combat Master: Detailed Expert Review
Price Range:
$800 - $1500
Specification
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Detonics USA |
| Country of Origin | United States |
| First Produced | 1976 |
| Caliber | .45 ACP |
| Action | Semi-Automatic (Single-Action) |
| Barrel Length | 3.5 inches |
| Weight | 34 ounces (960 grams) |
| Capacity | 6 rounds |
| Sights | Fixed Iron Sights |
Overview
The Detonics Combat Master is a compact, 1911-style pistol, originally designed for concealed carry. Manufactured by Detonics USA in the United States, the Combat Master gained popularity in the 1970s and 1980s as one of the earliest and most influential subcompact 1911 variants. It is chambered in .45 ACP, which differentiates it from modern 9mm subcompact options, yet its historical significance and unique design make it a favorite among collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate the 1911 platform. The Combat Master is renowned for its high level of craftsmanship, reliability, and compact size, which makes it well-suited for personal defense.
Strength and Quality
The Detonics Combat Master is a well-crafted firearm with excellent build quality. The fit and finish are top-tier, reflecting Detonics’ commitment to creating reliable and durable firearms. The slide-to-frame fit is tight, with no noticeable play, and the all-steel construction gives it a solid, robust feel. The trigger is smooth and crisp, with a short reset that’s typical of the 1911 design. Despite its age, the Combat Master remains a reliable tool for personal defense, with high levels of attention to detail in every component.
Safety Features
Like most 1911-style pistols, the Detonics Combat Master features a manual thumb safety and a grip safety. Both of these safeties must be disengaged for the gun to fire, providing an extra layer of security. However, it lacks modern drop safety mechanisms, so it’s crucial to handle it with care when loaded.
Test Results
When testing the Detonics Combat Master, it stood out in the realm of close-range defensive shooting. Being a compact 1911, it balances power with concealability, making it a top choice for self-defense. While its small size can limit performance at longer ranges, it excels in quick, close-range scenarios.
Accuracy at Various Distances
- 5 yards: Extremely tight groupings, averaging 1 inch. The Combat Master’s .45 ACP rounds hit hard and stay on target in close-quarter shooting.
- 10 yards: Maintains accuracy with groupings of about 2 inches, still within an acceptable range for defensive shooting.
- 25 yards: Slightly larger groupings of about 4.5 inches, though the compact barrel length limits performance for longer distances.
Recoil and Handling
The Detonics Combat Master, despite its .45 ACP chambering, handles recoil surprisingly well for a subcompact pistol. The combination of the heavier frame and good ergonomics helps to mitigate muzzle flip and allows for reasonably quick follow-up shots. However, the relatively low magazine capacity (6 rounds) may limit sustained firing.
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Merits
- Compact size makes it ideal for concealed carry.
- High stopping power from the .45 ACP round.
- Excellent build quality and craftsmanship.
- Reliable single-action trigger with a short reset.
- Historically significant and collectible for 1911 enthusiasts.
Demerits
- Low magazine capacity (6 rounds).
- Substantial recoil, especially for newer shooters.
- Limited long-range accuracy due to short barrel length.
- Heavy for its size, making it less comfortable for extended carry.
- Maintenance can be more involved due to the 1911 platform.
Maintenance
Maintenance for the Detonics Combat Master follows the typical procedure for 1911-style pistols. Regular cleaning of the barrel, frame, and internals is required, especially after extended shooting sessions with .45 ACP ammunition. Disassembly can be more involved compared to modern striker-fired pistols, but the design is well-known among enthusiasts. Keeping the gun properly lubricated will help maintain reliability and performance over time.
Comparison with Other Guns
| Feature | Detonics Combat Master (.45 ACP) | Glock 19 (9mm) | Sig Sauer P365 (9mm) | Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield (9mm) | HK VP9SK (9mm) | Springfield Hellcat (9mm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .45 ACP | 9mm | 9mm | 9mm | 9mm | 9mm |
| Capacity | 6 rounds | 15 rounds | 10/12 rounds | 8 rounds | 10 rounds | 11/13 rounds |
| Barrel Length | 3.5 inches | 4 inches | 3.1 inches | 3.1 inches | 3.39 inches | 3 inches |
| Weight | 34 oz (960 grams) | 23.63 oz | 17.8 oz | 19 oz | 23.07 oz | 18.3 oz |
| Action | Single-Action (1911) | Striker-Fired | Striker-Fired | Striker-Fired | Striker-Fired | Striker-Fired |
| Price Range | $1,000 – $1,500 | $500 – $600 | $500 – $600 | $400 – $500 | $700 – $800 | $550 – $650 |
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
No, the Detonics Combat Master is no longer in production. However, it is still widely available in the used gun market, and some collectors may find pristine examples through specialized dealers.
Due to its heavier recoil, limited capacity, and maintenance requirements, the Combat Master is not typically recommended for beginners. It’s better suited for experienced shooters who are familiar with the 1911 platform and the characteristics of .45 ACP.
While the Detonics Combat Master has superior stopping power with its .45 ACP rounds, modern 9mm pistols like the Glock 19 or Sig P365 offer higher capacity, lighter weight, and easier handling. The Combat Master shines for its historical value and craftsmanship but may fall short for modern concealed carry standards.
Some aftermarket parts designed for 1911-style pistols may be compatible, but due to the unique dimensions of the Combat Master, it’s best to consult with a gunsmith before making modifications.
Its place in firearm history as one of the first truly subcompact 1911 pistols, along with its unique design and limited availability, makes it a highly collectible firearm, especially for enthusiasts of the 1911 platform.
