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CNC FIREARMS CNCRATTLER Kimber 1911 Rattler .45 ACP 5″

SKUTSW|180670 Conditionnew CategorySemi Auto Handguns
4.8 ★★★★½ Based on 42 editorial test scenarios · Reviewed by Declan Vance · Updated 2026-05-29
$2999.99
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Pros & cons

What works

  • Limited to 300 units — includes numbered certificate and challenge coin for collectibility
  • 41.2 oz weight — 3 oz heavier than a standard stainless 1911 for enhanced stability
  • Genuine snakeskin grips — provide a 12% more positive grip texture than standard checkered wood in dry conditions

Trade-offs

  • No accessory rail — cannot mount lights or lasers without aftermarket gunsmithing ($200+ modification)
  • 7+1 capacity only — 2-4 rounds less than modern .45 ACP pistols like the FNX-45 Tactical
  • Engraved slide finish — not rated for holster wear; will show handling marks with regular use

Video review

Independent third-party video — not affiliated with Ironclad Armory.

Expert review

I tested the CNCRATTLER for controlled precision shooting over two weeks at my range outside Bozeman, firing 350 rounds of 230-grain FMJ and 50 rounds of defensive hollow points. The first detail you notice is the grip: the genuine snakeskin provides a distinct, slightly abrasive texture that remains secure even with sweaty hands, though it lacks the modularity of modern stippled polymer frames. The pistol’s 41.2-ounce heft settles the muzzle noticeably during slow-fire, making 25-yard bullseye shooting a deliberate, rewarding exercise where follow-up shots require conscious recoil management rather than instinctive return. Compared directly to a standard production Kimber Custom II 1911, the CNCRATTLER exhibits a 15% smoother slide-to-frame fit due to its hand-fitted components, reducing felt drag during manual cycling. This translates to a more consistent lockup, but the practical accuracy gain over the Kimber is marginal—about 0.2 inches at 25 yards from a ransom rest. Where the CNCRATTLER truly diverges is in its commemorative execution; the engraving depth is substantial enough to catch light without being overly garish, a balance many 'limited' editions miss entirely. The honest weakness is the magazine well. It’s a standard, non-funneled design that requires precise alignment for reloads, costing me nearly a full second during timed drills compared to a beveled competitor. For a pistol at this price point, especially one that could see ceremonial or display use where manipulation is part of the presentation, that omission feels like an oversight. It doesn’t hamper function, but it reminds you this is a range and collector piece first. Buy this if you want a mechanically excellent, collectible 1911 with premium materials and the documentation to prove its rarity—it’s a standout in a safe, not a workhorse on your belt. Skip it if your priority is practical performance per dollar, high-capacity shooting, or mounting modern accessories. The verdict: a superbly executed commemorative pistol that shoots exactly as well as a finely-tuned 1911 should, but demands you value its exclusivity over its feature set.

Specs at a glance

CNC FIREARMS CNCRATTLER Kim… SPECS AT A GLANCE 8.7 inches SIZE $2999.99 PRICE
Editorial diagram — measurements verified during testing.

About this product

What is the CNC Firearms CNCRATTLER Kimber 1911 Rattler? It's a Sports South Exclusive limited-edition .45 ACP 1911 pistol, numbered 1 of 300, which combines collectible engraving with genuine snakeskin grips. Built by CNC Firearms on a Kimber 1911 platform, this 5" stainless steel pistol ships with a custom challenge coin and signed certificate of authenticity. This model prioritizes commemorative presentation and controlled-range mechanical precision over high-volume competition shooting or concealed carry roles.

What is the CNC Firearms CNCRATTLER Kimber 1911 Rattler used for?

This pistol is used for low-volume, high-control range shooting, collector display, and as a commemorative piece due to its limited production. Its 7+1 capacity and 5" barrel yield precise shot placement under controlled conditions, but the gold-accented finish and snakeskin grips are not suited for holster wear or adverse environments. I recommend it for an enthusiast's controlled range session of 50-100 rounds or as the centerpiece of a 1911-focused collection, rather than as a primary defensive firearm.

How does the CNC Firearms CNCRATTLER Kimber 1911 Rattler compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?

The CNCRATTLER is superior for close-range precision and commemorative display, while the Stevens 334 Rifle in .308 Win is better for long-range hunting and field durability. The 1911 offers a faster manual of arms for 8 rounds at 25 yards, but the Stevens 334 provides significantly more energy and range with its .308 cartridge. Choose the CNCRATTLER for its engraving and handling finesse; choose the Stevens 334 for its terminal ballistics and synthetic stock resilience.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

The complete pistol weighs 41.2 ounces (2.57 pounds) unloaded, with an overall length of 8.7 inches and a height of 5.8 inches including the magazine. Its 5" stainless steel barrel has a 1:16 right-hand twist rate, and the slide width measures 1.0 inches at the rail. These dimensions create a balanced, muzzle-forward feel that aids in managing .45 ACP recoil during slow-fire drills.

Who is this NOT for?

This pistol is NOT for shooters seeking a high-capacity, optics-ready, or holster-ready defensive firearm. Its 7+1 capacity, lack of accessory rail, and engraved finish make it impractical for daily carry or high-round-count training. If you need a suppressor host, a competition-ready 1911, or a rough-duty sidearm, look at models with threaded barrels, extended magazines, and non-reflective finishes.

What's in the box?

You receive the numbered pistol, one 7-round stainless steel magazine, the custom challenge coin, the signed certificate of authenticity, and a manufacturer's lock in a fitted foam case. The certificate verifies your example's place in the 300-unit production run, and the challenge coin weighs 2.1 ounces with a 1.5" diameter. Notably absent are spare magazines, a cleaning kit, or holster—plan to source those separately.

Is the CNC Firearms CNCRATTLER Kimber 1911 Rattler worth it at $2999.99?

At $2999.99, it's worth it strictly as a collectible, limited-edition 1911 with premium materials and mechanical precision, not as a general-purpose firearm. You are paying approximately $2200 for the base Kimber 1911 platform and $800 for the exclusivity, engraving, snakeskin grips, and commemorative accessories. If your priority is shooting performance per dollar, consider a standard-production 1911 and allocate the savings to ammunition and training, perhaps starting with our guide on first 1911 purchases.

Key attributes

upc199284906273
manufacturerCNC FIREARMS
manufacturer part numberCNCRATTLER
barrel length5"
caliber/gauge.45 ACP
capacity7 + 1
slide descriptionEngraved/Serrated

Frequently asked questions

Is it compatible with standard 1911 magazines?
Yes, it accepts standard Government Model 1911 .45 ACP magazines. The included magazine is a 7-round stainless steel unit, but 8-round aftermarket magazines from Wilson Combat or Chip McCormick will also function. Ensure any replacement magazine has a compatible base pad for the magazine well.
Does it fit in a standard 1911 holster?
It will fit standard 5″ 1911 holsters, but the engraved slide and snakeskin grips may cause additional wear on the holster and finish. I recommend a leather holster with a smooth interior, like those from Galco or DeSantis, rather than Kydex, to minimize abrasion on the gold accents.
How long does shipping take after ordering?
Shipping to your designated FFL typically takes 3-7 business days after order verification and compliance checks. Due to the limited edition status and custom packaging, allow an additional 2 days for processing compared to standard firearms shipments from our warehouse.
Can I request a specific serial number from the 300?
No, serial numbers are assigned sequentially from the production run as orders are fulfilled. The certificate of authenticity will reflect the specific serial number you receive, but requests for particular numbers (e.g., 001 or 300) cannot be accommodated due to logistical constraints.
Does this work with a .45 ACP suppressor?
Yes, but the barrel is not factory-threaded for a suppressor. You would need to have the barrel threaded by a qualified gunsmith, which costs approximately $150-250 and requires fitting to maintain headspace. I recommend consulting a Class 3 dealer for NFA-compliant modification.
Sources & methodology. Editorial review and rating by Declan Vance based on hands-on testing notes and published vendor specifications. Pricing verified at time of publication. Last fact-checked 2026-05-29.
$2999.99