Description
The Iver Johnson 1911A1 BOA in .45 ACP with a 5″ barrel and snakeskin epoxy finish is a no-frills 1911 built for shooters who want a tough, distinctive pistol without the custom price tag. This iver johnson 1911a1 boa – .45 acp 5″ snakeskin pairs a classic platform with a durable, textured finish that stands up to holster wear and range sessions.
| Manufacturer | Iver Johnson |
|---|---|
| Model | 1911A1 BOA |
| Material | Steel frame and slide (per manufacturer specs) |
| Finish | BOA snakeskin epoxy |
| Caliber | .45 ACP |
| Barrel Length | 5″ |
| Weight | 40 oz (approx., unloaded per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- BOA Snakeskin Epoxy Finish – This textured coating gives the steel frame and slide a grippy, non-slip surface that resists corrosion and holds up under heavy use. It also sets your pistol apart visually from every plain blued or parked 1911 on the rack.
- Beavertail Grip Safety with Memory Cut – The extended beavertail prevents hammer bite and the memory cut ensures you get a consistent grip every time you draw. It makes the 1911A1 safer and more comfortable for shooters with larger hands.
- Extended Thumb Safety – Positive, ambidextrous? No, it’s a single-side extended safety that gives you a larger paddle to sweep off under stress. It’s easier to engage and disengage than a standard GI safety.
- Angled Front and Rear Serrations – These serrations give you a solid purchase on the slide for press checks or malfunction clears, even with sweaty or gloved hands. The angled cut also adds a subtle custom look.
- Fixed Sights – Low-profile, drift-adjustable rear and a blade front. They’re simple, snag-resistant, and get you on target fast. No batteries, no fuss—just iron sights that work out of the box.
Who It’s For
This pistol is built for the shooter who wants a reliable, no-nonsense 1911 in .45 ACP with a tough finish that won’t chip or wear like bluing. It’s ideal for range practice, plinking, or as a truck gun that can take abuse. If you’re a collector or a first-time 1911 buyer looking for something different from the usual black or stainless options, the BOA snakeskin delivers.
Pros & Cons
- Pro: Durable epoxy finish that outperforms standard parkerization in salt spray tests. According to Iver Johnson specs, this coating is applied at 2-3 mils thickness for long-term protection.
- Pro: Classic 1911 ergonomics with modern upgrades—beavertail, extended safety, and serrations—without a custom gunsmith price tag.
- Con: The manufacturer explicitly warns against using +P ammunition or reloads. This limits your ammo choices to standard-pressure .45 ACP only, which may be a drawback for shooters who want hot loads or handloads.
Comparison
| Feature | Iver Johnson 1911A1 BOA | Zev Technologies OZ9 | Lone Wolf Distributors Timberwolf |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .45 ACP | 9mm | 9mm / .40 S&W |
| Frame Material | Steel | Aluminum / Polymer | Polymer |
| Finish | Snakeskin epoxy | Black nitride / Cerakote | Melonite / Black |
| MSRP | $700.55 | $1,200+ | $550-$700 |
| Magazines Included | 1 | 2 | 2 |
| +P Rated | No | Yes | Yes |
FAQ
Can I use +P ammunition in the Iver Johnson 1911A1 BOA?
No. Per the manufacturer’s specifications, this pistol should not be used with +P ammunition or reloads. Stick with standard-pressure .45 ACP factory loads to keep the warranty valid and the gun running reliably.
How many magazines come with the 1911A1 BOA?
One single-stack, 7-round magazine is included. Spare magazines are widely available from brands like Wilson Combat, McCormick, or Mec-Gar.
Is the snakeskin finish durable enough for daily carry?
Yes. The BOA epoxy finish is tough and resistant to scratches, sweat, and solvents. It’s applied over a phosphate base coat for adhesion. That said, no finish is indestructible—holster wear will eventually show on high-contact areas.
What is the trigger pull weight on this model?
The trigger pull is factory-spec for a 1911A1, typically around 5-6 pounds. It’s a crisp, single-action pull with minimal take-up. Some shooters may want to upgrade the trigger shoe or sear spring for a lighter break.
Ready to Buy
This Iver Johnson 1911A1 BOA ships in 1-2 business days to all 50 states. We accept returns within 30 days of delivery (unfired, in original packaging). Secure checkout via encrypted payment gateway.
- ✓ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
- ✓ Ships 1-2 business days
- ✓ 30-day returns
- ✓ Secure checkout
Browse more Semi Auto Handguns or check our 1911 Pistols and .45 ACP Firearms.
Last updated: April 2026
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