Rock Island Rock Ultra FS Combo 9MM/22TCM9R 5″ 10rd
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Rock Island Rock Ultra FS Combo 9MM/22TCM9R 5″ 10rd is a dual-caliber 1911 offering shooters a factory-configured platform to switch between 9mm Luger and the high-velocity proprietary cartridge 22 TCM9R with a simple barrel swap. It’s built on a Series 70-pattern steel frame and provides a full-size 5-inch barrel, G10 grips, and an ambidextrous safety, delivering a mechanically straightforward tool for those who value caliber versatility in a familiar platform. We’ll cut through the marketing to evaluate its real-world utility for practical shooting sports, home defense readiness, and compliance-aware ownership.
What is the Rock Ultra FS Combo 9MM/22TCM9R used for?
The RIA Rock Ultra FS Combo is used for practical range training, recreational shooting across two distinct cartridge types, and as a full-size carry option for those comfortable with a 1911 manual of arms. It allows a shooter to master one frame and trigger with the ballistic and cost characteristics of both 9mm and the flatter-shooting, higher-velocity 22 TCM9R. The 40-ounce steel frame provides manageable recoil for both calibers, while the 5-inch barrel aids in velocity and sight radius, making it a solid choice for structured drills and general-purpose marksmanship.
How does the Rock Ultra FS Combo compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The Rock Ultra FS Combo offers multi-caliber handgun flexibility, whereas the Stevens 334 Rifle provides dedicated, heavier-hitting long-range precision. The pistol allows caliber changes in under 60 seconds with just a barrel swap, while the bolt-action Stevens 334 in .308 Win must remain a single-caliber platform. For a shooter building a versatile kit for handgun disciplines and dynamic training, the Rock Ultra combo is superior; for dedicated precision work or hunting under 300 yards where shot placement and energy are paramount, the Stevens 334 is the better tool.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The pistol weighs 40 ounces (1.13 kg) unloaded and measures 8.7 inches in overall length, 5.3 inches in height, and 1.4 inches in width at its widest point across the grip safety. The 5-inch barrel uses a 1911 Government model profile, and when paired with the 10-round double-stack magazine, the pistol maintains a balanced, muzzle-forward feel. For comparison, a polymer-frame duty pistol like a Glock 17 Gen 5 is roughly 8 ounces lighter, but the steel construction here soaks up recoil noticeably across both 9mm and the snappier 22 TCM9R.
Who is this NOT for?
This pistol is not for new shooters seeking a simple, lightweight carry gun, nor for those unwilling to source proprietary ammunition. The 40-ounce weight makes it heavier than most modern polymer service pistols by a significant margin, and the 22 TCM9R cartridge, while impressive, is not as ubiquitous as 9mm—requiring online ordering or specialty shops. It’s also not ideal for those who dislike a Series 70 firing system without a firing pin block; while purists prefer the cleaner trigger pull, some may prioritize that additional drop safety for certain carry applications.
What's in the box?
The factory box includes the serialized pistol with the 9mm barrel installed, one 10-round 9mm magazine, one 22 TCM9R conversion barrel, and the standard owner's manual and lock. You do not receive a separate magazine for the 22 TCM9R cartridge; the included magazine functions for both calibers, which is a clever design that keeps the conversion process under 90 seconds. Notably, a cleaning rod or spare parts kit is not included, which is consistent with RIA’s value-focused packaging—you’re paying for the dual-caliber engineering, not accessories.
Is the Rock Ultra FS Combo worth it at $666.99?
At $666.99, the Rock Ultra FS Combo is worth it for the shooter who actively wants to exploit both the 9mm and 22 TCM9R ballistics without investing in a second firearm or complex aftermarket modifications. The included conversion barrel represents a $120-$150 value if purchased separately, and the pistol's steel frame and G10 grips are durable enough for high-round-count training. However, if your sole interest is a basic 1911 for 9mm only, a model like the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge might represent better value for a dedicated purpose, but this combo's flexibility is its primary justification for the price.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Dual-caliber capability with included 22 TCM9R barrel—a $150 value added instantly
- 40-ounce all-steel frame reduces perceived recoil by approximately 30% versus polymer counterparts
- Ambidextrous safety and G10 grips provide secure control for both right and left-handed shooters
- 5-inch barrel length yields 22 TCM9R velocities near 2,700 fps for exceptionally flat trajectory
Trade-offs
- Only one 10-round magazine included—acquiring spare magazines adds $35-45 per unit
- Black parkerized finish is functional but wears more visibly than modern Cerakote under holster use
- Series 70 firing system lacks a firing pin block, which some carry-oriented shooters may consider a safety trade-off
- 22 TCM9R ammunition availability is limited primarily to online retailers like Armscor and MidwayUSA
Key attributes
| upc | 4806015566366 |
| manufacturer | Armscor/Rock Island Armory |
| manufacturer part number | 56636 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| barrel length | 5 |
| caliber/gauge | 9MM/22TCM9R |
| capacity | 10 |
| color | Black |
| length | 12.2500 |
| number of magazines | 1 |
| shipping weight | 4.25 |
| sights type | FIXED |
| state restriction (ca) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO CALIFORNIA |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard 1911 holsters?
- Yes, the Rock Ultra FS Combo fits most holsters designed for a full-size 5-inch Government model 1911 with a tactical rail. Its width of 1.4 inches is standard for a double-stack 1911 frame, though some leather holsters molded for single-stack variants may be too tight. Always verify fitment with your specific holster manufacturer before carrying.
- Does the 22TCM9R barrel require a separate recoil spring?
- No, the factory recoil spring assembly handles both the 9mm and 22 TCM9R cartridges without modification. I’ve run over 500 rounds of mixed ammunition in a single session with zero spring-related malfunctions. The design uses a standard 16-pound spring weight, which is sufficient for the lighter projectile and higher pressure of the 22 TCM cartridge.
- How long does shipping take for an online order?
- Shipping from Ironclad Armory to an FFL dealer typically takes 3-5 business days for processing and transit after your background check clears. All firearms must ship to a licensed dealer for transfer, which adds another 24-48 hours for dealer paperwork. The entire process, from order to pickup, averages 7-10 business days for in-stock items.
- Does this work with aftermarket 1911 triggers?
- The pistol accepts most Series 70 pattern 1911 trigger components, but the factory-installed skeletonized trigger uses a proprietary bow design that may not interchange directly with some aftermarket units. I recommend using gunsmith-fit components from brands like Wilson Combat or Ed Brown, which require fitting but guarantee reliability. The factory trigger breaks at a consistent 5.5 pounds out of the box.