Selected Handgun Detail

Manufacturer
	AMT-High Standard Manufacturing Co. More Info

About the Gun

This is AMT's clone of the .45 Auto Colt M1911, although some components of the action are not interchangeable with other M1911s. The Hardballer was the first entirely stainless steel 1911 pattern pistol. Other features included adjustable rear sights and a lengthened grip safety.

Production

Production of this specific firearm began in 1980 and continued until 2002.

Market value

For this gun, the MSRP is not readily available as it's discontinued. Used market value in 95% condition is approximately $1,400-$1,900 based on recent 2024-2025 sales data from various platforms.

Cartridge Specifications
Cartridge:	.45 Automatic
Alias:	.45 Automatic Colt Pistol (ACP)
More Info

Analysis

The Hardballer Longslide extends the standard Hardballer platform with a 7-inch barrel and matching slide length, increasing muzzle velocity by approximately 100–150 fps over the 5-inch version with standard .45 ACP loads and providing a longer sight radius for improved accuracy at 25–50 yards. The added length and weight (approximately 46 oz unloaded) reduce perceived recoil and muzzle flip compared to the standard model, though the pistol remains front-heavy and less suited to concealed carry. Practical accuracy benefits from the extended sight radius and target-oriented features like the adjustable Millet rear sight and wide trigger with stop, with groups often tightening at distance when using consistent ammunition. Reliability follows the same patterns as the standard Hardballer—generally consistent with FMJ loads after proper lubrication, but sensitive to maintenance due to stainless-on-stainless contact surfaces and potential galling if under-greased. Some action components may require fitting for interchangeability with other 1911s. The Longslide variant appeals to collectors for its role in early all-stainless 1911 development and its velocity advantages in target or hunting applications, though production remained limited and examples are scarcer than the standard model.