Union Switch & Signal M1911A1 U.S. Army .45 ACP (1943) – Rare WWII USGI Pistol with R.C.D. Acceptance and Dual P Proofs
This 1943 Union Switch & Signal M1911A1 stands out as one of the least-common prime-contractor WWII U.S. service pistols, second in rarity only to Singer. It retains sharp, correct US&S markings, proper U.S. Army property roll marks, and verifiable inspection and proof stamps. The pistol presents in good overall condition with an excellent bore, offering a strong example of a scarce US&S contract .45 ACP.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Excellent - Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Bore Rifling: Excellent Rifling - Sharp lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: The pistol shows an even, matte gray Parkerized refinish with light holster wear at the muzzle and high edges. The "R.C.D." inspector mark and "US&S Co. Swissvale, Pa" slide stamp remain sharp and well-defined on the sandblasted surface.
What’s Included
- 1x 7-round single-stack steel 1911 magazine with witness holes
Manufactured by Union Switch & Signal in 1943, this U.S. M1911A1 represents a scarce WWII production run. US&S was one of the smallest prime contractors, making its pistols a significant draw for USGI collectors seeking contract variations. This example aligns with period-correct features and markings expected of the Swissvale, Pennsylvania maker.
The left side of the slide is correctly marked "U. S. & S. CO., SWISSVALE, PA. U.S.A." with the intertwined "USS" monogram.
The right side of the frame is roll-marked "UNITED STATES PROPERTY M1911A1 U.S. ARMY." The left side of the frame carries the "R.C.D." ordnance inspection initials, indicating acceptance by Lt. Col. Robert C. Downie.
There are two "P" proof stamps: one near the magazine release on the frame and one on the top of the slide forward of the rear sight.
It follows GI architecture with an arched mainspring housing and A1 scalloped frame relief cuts. Controls and small parts are correct to the pattern, including a single-side thumb safety, short trigger, and a wide-spur checkered hammer. The slide has vertical rear cocking serrations and a standard GI ejection port.
Sighting equipment is the fixed GI type, with a staked front blade and a fixed rear notch. Brown checkered grip panels complete the service-correct configuration. Chambered in .45 ACP, the pistol uses a 5-inch barrel and a 7+1 capacity, true to the full-size 1911 platform and all-steel construction of the era.