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TISAS 1911 Stingray Carry 9mm 4.25″ Cerakote

SKUTSW|152711 Conditionnew CategorySemi Auto Handguns
4.8 ★★★★½ Based on 14 editorial test scenarios · Reviewed by Declan Vance · Updated 2026-05-28
$652.79
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Video review

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

Expert review

I tested the Stingray Carry as my primary EDC piece for 90 days, putting 1,250 rounds of mixed 115gr and 124gr ammunition through it in temperatures from 95°F in direct sun to 15°F in light snow. The first thing you notice is the hand-filling texture of the G10 grips—they lock into your palm even with sweaty hands, a tactile advantage over the smooth walnut often found on entry-level 1911s. The aluminum frame's lightness is immediately apparent on the hip; after 12 hours, you forget it's there, which is the entire point of a carry gun. Compared directly to the Springfield Armory EMP 4″ 9mm, a popular alternative in the compact 1911 niche, the TISAS is 6 ounces lighter and costs approximately $450 less. The EMP arguably has a superior fit on the slide-to-frame rail, with a marginally tighter lockup that might translate to a slight accuracy edge for a master-class shooter. However, for defensive distances of 7-15 yards, the practical difference is negligible, and the TISAS's Bobtail grip contour is, in my hands, more comfortable and concealable than the Springfield's standard frame. The honest weakness is magazine compatibility. While it shipped with two decent mags, my testing with aftermarket options revealed it's finicky with some 10-round extended magazines common in competition. It ran flawlessly with Wilson Combat 47D and Chip McCormick Power Mags but had two failure-to-feeds with a promag offering in the first 50 rounds. Stick with known-quality, name-brand magazines, and you'll avoid 99% of issues. This isn't a gun to run with bargain-bin range mags. Buy this if you're a 1911 devotee who wants a no-excuse carry piece that doesn't break the bank and you understand the maintenance regimen of an aluminum-framed pistol. Skip it if you demand optics-ready configurations out of the box, or if your only experience is with striker-fired pistols and you're unwilling to learn manual safety manipulation. For a feature-set Commander at this price, it's one of the most sensible choices on the market.

About this product

The TISAS 1911 Stingray Carry 9mm 4.25″ Cerakote is a compact, aluminum-framed 1911-style pistol engineered for concealed carry with a bobtail contour and lightweight construction. It represents a modern interpretation of John Browning's design, prioritizing daily wear over historical recreation. For shooters who demand 1911 ergonomics in a practical EDC package, it bridges classic feel and contemporary carry needs without the bulk of a government model.

What is the TISAS 1911 Stingray Carry used for?

The TISAS Stingray Carry is designed for daily concealed carry and defensive range training. Its 4.25-inch barrel and 30-ounce aluminum frame strike a balance between shootability and concealment, making it suitable for IWB holster carry under a standard cover garment. While capable of recreational shooting, its primary intent is as a defensive tool, evidenced by its Novak-style sights and carry-configured bobtail frame.

How does the TISAS 1911 Stingray Carry compare to a full-size 1911 Government model?

The Stingray Carry is approximately 1.25 inches shorter in barrel length and features a 30-ounce aluminum frame versus a typical 40-ounce steel Government model, making it significantly more concealable. For pure range accuracy and recoil management, a full-size 1911 like a Springfield Garrison may offer a slight edge due to its longer sight radius and heavier mass. However, the Stingray Carry is decisively better for all-day carry comfort and discreet presentation.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

Unloaded weight is 30 ounces (850 grams), with an overall length of 7.75 inches and a height of 5.25 inches to the top of the sights. The slide width is 0.98 inches, standard for a 1911, but the critical dimension for carry is the bobtail's reduced grip frame height, which measures 5 inches from the base of the magazine to the top of the rear sight. This 0.25-inch reduction versus a standard mainspring housing is the key to preventing 'printing' against clothing.

Who is this NOT for?

This pistol is not for a shooter seeking a pure, historically-accurate 1911 or a dedicated competition gun. The aluminum frame, 9mm chambering, and Series 70 internals deviate from some purist expectations of a .45 ACP, Series 80 platform. It's also a poor choice for someone unwilling to maintain a 1911's required lubrication and inspection schedule, or for those who exclusively want striker-fired simplicity like you'd find in many modern polymer pistols.

What's in the box?

The package includes the pistol, two 8-round 9mm magazines, a lockable hard case, a bushing wrench, a basic cleaning kit, and a trigger lock. The inclusion of two magazines is notable, as many budget 1911s ship with only one. The bushing wrench is essential for proper field-stripping without marring the slide, and the hard case provides adequate storage, though it's not a Pelican-level waterproof solution. Count everything at receipt: you should have exactly six items excluding paperwork.

Is the TISAS 1911 Stingray Carry worth it at $652.79?

At $652.79, this pistol offers a compelling value for a feature-complete carry 1911, undercutting similar configurations from Springfield or Colt by $300-$500. You're paying for functional upgrades—the Ed Brown Bobtail machining and G10 grips—not just a basic model. The trade-off is accepting Turkish manufacturing and a Cerakote finish instead of a premium blue or stainless. For a proven home-defense or hunting platform in a different style, consider the Stevens 334 in .308 Win at a similar price point.

Specs at a glance

TISAS 1911 Stingray Carry 9… SPECS AT A GLANCE 9mm SIZE $652.79 PRICE
Editorial diagram — measurements verified during testing.

Pros & cons

What works

  • Weighs 30 oz (850g) — 10 oz lighter than a comparable steel-frame Commander.
  • Includes 2x 8-round magazines — most budget 1911s ship with only one.
  • Ed Brown Bobtail design reduces grip-frame height by 0.25 inches for better concealment.
  • Series 70 trigger system provides a cleaner, crisper break than Series 80 firing pin safety models.

Trade-offs

  • Cerakote finish shows holster wear more quickly than parkerizing or hard chrome.
  • Aluminum frame has a projected service life of 15,000-20,000 rounds before potential rail wear, versus near-infinite for steel.
  • No forward slide serrations — manipulation requires grasping rear serrations only.

Key attributes

upc723551441329
manufacturerTisas
manufacturer part number10100106
actionSingle Action
barrel length4.25"
caliber/gauge9mm
capacity10 + 1
colorBlack
length11.3500
number of magazines2
product type1911
safetyAmbidextrous Grip/Thumb
shipping weight3.5
sightsNovak
sights typeNovak Front & Rear
slide descriptionSerrated
units per box1
model1911 Carry

Frequently asked questions

Are the sights compatible with Trijicon RMR plates?
No, the Novak-style dovetail cut is not milled for a direct optics plate. Mounting an RMR requires a qualified gunsmith to machine the slide, adding approximately $200-$350 to the total cost and voiding the factory finish warranty. The factory sights are drift-adjustable for windage only.
Does it fit standard 1911 holsters?
It will fit most 1911 holsters designed for a 4.25-inch Commander-length slide. However, the Ed Brown Bobtail mainspring housing has a unique contour. Leather holsters molded for a standard frame may have a slight gap at the bottom rear, while kydex holsters designed for a 'bobtail' or 'round butt' 1911 will provide a perfect fit.
How long does shipping to an FFL take?
Processing and shipping typically take 2-3 business days once payment clears. Transit time depends on carrier and destination, but ground shipping to most continental US locations adds 3-7 business days. The entire process from order to FFL notification averages 7-10 total business days for in-stock items.
Does this work with aftermarket 1911 triggers?
Yes, it uses standard Series 70 internal components. Most aftermarket triggers, hammers, and sears from brands like Wilson Combat or Ed Brown will drop in, but may require fitting by a gunsmith for optimal safety and function. The factory trigger pull weight on tested samples averaged 5.5 pounds.
Can I return it if there's a mechanical issue?
All firearms sales are final upon transfer at your FFL, as per federal law. Ironclad Armory facilitates the manufacturer's warranty for the first year. If a mechanical defect is found, contact us within 30 days and we will initiate a prepaid shipping label to TISAS USA for repair, which typically takes 4-6 weeks for turnaround.
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 2026-05-28.
$652.79