Way back in the early 80's.. sent them a new Series 70 Government that came out of the box new and needed a lot of attention..They went all thru it, put the Bomar on it, ramped the barrel, lowered the ejection port,, etc, etc,...thing hasn't skipped a beat since then..best money I ever spent on a gun.
@@4catsnow I’d love to have one like you got. Not sure if the series 70’s ever went “out of style” but I think there’s more guys starting to appreciate them for what they are over the different renditions that have come about for whatever safety reasons or “improvements” some manufacturers have come up with. How many rounds have you got down the tube on yours?
Mr Wilson you are a great pioneer in the gun community! I personally thank you for everything you've done and are continuing to do!!! Keep making those beautiful guns that we all love so much! And all the upgraded parts you make available to us!!!
Wilson guns are not only firearms. They are work of art that really work. The attention Wilson crew, the love, and detail put in their gun is amazing. Wilson gun, especially the 45 is so beautiful that can be considered as family heirloom.
These pistols are absolutely beautiful. Wilson Combat has been leading the way in quality firearms, parts, and accessories for decades, and for that, I'm thankful.
I was born in 77 and have read Bill’s book. Amazing history during my exact lifetime that Bill has accomplished. Plus, I love my XTAC Commander and 300 HAM’R rifle. Thanks Bill
I have to have one! My grandparents moved to Arkansas (Judsonia) in 1949 My parents took us kids out there every summer. At one time my grandfather had 110 Winchesters and Henry's They were in his 'bomb shelter' which was where I slept as a kid. He also had dozens of Colt percussion guns and dueling pistol sets etc... That is how I got hooked and he bought me a High Standard 22 pistol
My first handgun was a 1911 Series 80, 1984 I had the frame hard chromed, and the slide (sides) laquer blued. Had an action job done by Ray Corn. This was (to me) the best handgun I ever owned.
Oh. My. God. What a beautiful gun. I am definitely going to church this Sunday to ask God to forgive me for my envy and covetousness. Thank you Mr. Wilson and all who are involved in making this beautiful work of art. I will never be able to own one of these guns, but perhaps I don't need to. There is something in and of itself, of wanting but never having. Maybe just a regular ole Wilson pistol of some kind might be ok. Thanks for all the years of hard work you have given to this industry. There is only one Wilson.
I have a two tone 1996 Wilson Combat 38 Super with thousands and thousands of rounds through it. It STILL shoots one hole groups and runs flawlessly. I had its mate in 45 acp back in the day, but unfortunately hurricane Katrina ruined that one. The Super shoots so beautifully that I have to force myself to practice with my other handguns. Oh, almost forgot, thank you Ken for the last segment. I totally agree 👍.
What a great gun and what a great story. This is the American Dream in action: a man or woman with a talent, a vision, grit and determination to make a business that is number 1. This will only work if you have a superior product. Many thanks, Bill. --Old Guy
My dad worked on a turkey farm just outside of Berryville in the early to mid 70s. My first memories of shooting was there. It's the start of a lifetime loving guns. Thank you for your contributions to our industry and lifestyle.
Beautiful pistols. I've been into .45's since 1962 . I've shot on Jim Clark's range and talked to him a few times . Love the weapons he made . I carried a couple of 45's in combat in the 60's and they never let me down .
Bill, some of my most treasured memories are shooting IPSC with the old MPPL bunch. I was part of the "Wheel Gunners" back in the 70s from St Joe. We would drive 2 and a half hours to shoot a 50-round match. Be it the Cooper Assault, the Wheeler Nocturnomatc or even the Wilson Rapid Fire. It was the highlight of my month and i wouldn't miss it for the world. I remember you when you were that guy in the Camaro from Berryville that kicked all our asses. One of my most treasued possessions is an original Wilson Combat catalog that came with the MPPL match notice. Just want to say congrats on 45 years of Wilson Combat! Last year, for my 65th birthday, I purchased an ECD 9. It is truly a master piece. Thanks for the great product. I am seriously considering ordering one of the supergrade 45th anniversary guns. I wish you all the best as you continue on life's journey. Steve Groshong Stewartsville, MO
I just completed my first 1911 Simi build. I took an SDS 1911 and put all WC internals into it. I love 1911's and hope to own a true Willson 1911 one day. There are not many pieces of true craftsmanship left in the world. I want to own one. Thanks Mr. Willson!
I have a Colt Series 70 in .45acp that I bought back when I lived in Missouri at a local gun show. The pistol was in excellent condition and I archived it until I relocated to Central Florida in 1983. Following Bill Wilson's gunsmithing activities I noted that at that time he offered a custom package deal that included replacing the barrel, hammer, trigger with match parts and a Bomar sight. I have had this handgun for well over 40 years and have shot it a significant amount in that time. It has become somewhat of a classic in my collection for many reasons.
The two tone on the desk looks like the gun they did for me in the early 80's..same sights. trigger, right hand thumb safety..and the commander hammer...deju vu....
Like anything it gets into the blood and becomes a passionate addiction and you have to feed the addiction by build a company to feed those needs financially to support it. 👍❤️
By good fortune I have a Wilson Combat late '70's two tone Commander. I was able to obtain it from an estate sale from an obvious hardcore 45 target shooter. As I was limited to one purchase a month, I took the Commander over the built target 45 on a Norinco frame. I wish I had of gotten both. The Commander was carried regularly and set up for full power 230 grain loads. It is my home defense pistol for many years now.
Just beautiful. Aussie powerball is on tonight. If I win I'll fly over and pick them up in person. Then a Duesenberg to transport them in. What a dream.
Bill Wilson sold patents to Gaston Glock and the Glock was born. Bill, you should do a Bill Wilson run of Gen 3 Glock. Tighter lockup, nicer trigger, better sights, undercut, smoother machining, and a 1911 grip with a Starburst pattern.
I shot a match there with several other L/E personnel in the 70s. The folks were all American then & I am sure still are. Congratulations on many years of a successful business!👍😊🇺🇸
Bill, the jewelry shop where you started your gun business should be declared a heritage site (at least) or should be recognized by the Smithsonian Institute.
Incredibly happy with my first Wilson Combat purchased about a month ago - the EDC 9X - a simply amazing gun. I own some pretty fine firearms, but in all honesty none rise to the occasion like the Wilson Combat. I have the privilege of shooting a lot of different handguns. After having shot a friend’s EDC 9 I immediately knew I had to have one, and that is the first time that has ever happened. I won’t mention other brands but even after shooting some very high-end firearms, they were something I had to think about before buying. They were most certainly really fine pistols, but there were things to consider about them in my mind. Not so with the Wilson Combat.
I have an Auto Ordnance Thompson 1911 that I was having feed issues with, sent it to Auto Ordnance twice only to be told it functions normally. I was about to throw it in a drawer until I could put it into a shadow box with some WWII pictures of soldiers using it, but while looking at some other 1911’s I told my salesman my issue and he recommended that I try putting a WC magazine, and it works great now. It is my home defense gun.
I think it would be a good idea for the gun community for WC to acquire or merge with Milt Sparks Holsters in Idaho. Their holsters are like your guns, the best.
What is your favorite feature of the 45th Anniversary 1911?
A master craftsman attention to detail.
Everything about it
That it is crafted by the masters at Wilson Combat.
Aesthetics ...
The whole package, but the engraving puts
Super Grade over the top! If I could afford one,
I'd buy one!
Beautiful guns and love the back story!
Way back in the early 80's.. sent them a new Series 70 Government that came out of the box new and needed a lot of attention..They went all thru it, put the Bomar on it, ramped the barrel, lowered the ejection port,, etc, etc,...thing hasn't skipped a beat since then..best money I ever spent on a gun.
@@4catsnow I’d love to have one like you got. Not sure if the series 70’s ever went “out of style” but I think there’s more guys starting to appreciate them for what they are over the different renditions that have come about for whatever safety reasons or “improvements” some manufacturers have come up with. How many rounds have you got down the tube on yours?
Mr Wilson you are a great pioneer in the gun community! I personally thank you for everything you've done and are continuing to do!!! Keep making those beautiful guns that we all love so much! And all the upgraded parts you make available to us!!!
Quit sucking up. Wilson makes terrific guns, but is known as a complete jerk and is only liked by a handful of yes-men and shills.
Wilson guns are not only firearms. They are work of art that really work. The attention Wilson crew, the love, and detail put in their gun is amazing. Wilson gun, especially the 45 is so beautiful that can be considered as family heirloom.
Ken getting into it in the closing! Priceless!! 😂
Beautiful works of art and congrats on 45 years Bill and the entire WC staff!
Bill and Ken are living legends. I love listening to these guys talk. This video makes me appreciate my Wilson Combat 1911 even more.
These pistols are absolutely beautiful. Wilson Combat has been leading the way in quality firearms, parts, and accessories for decades, and for that, I'm thankful.
Man I love listening to you guys. Thanks for taking the time.
I was born in 77 and have read Bill’s book. Amazing history during my exact lifetime that Bill has accomplished. Plus, I love my XTAC Commander and 300 HAM’R rifle. Thanks Bill
Fantastic anniversary 1911s from Wilson Combat! And the dose of frank, candid sobriety from Ken at the very end was terrific!
I love the closing comments from Mr. Hackathorn. They are my sentiments, exactly!
I love Bill, Larry , Massad .. all of you are my hero’s. Can’t wait to meet you someday Bill!
Of course we all love 1911s and Wilson combat is one of the best and I really like Ken Hackathorn and his attitude.
Everything about the Deluxe 45th Anniversary Supergrade speaks to me. It's a beautiful work of art.
I greatly admire the attention to detail and history in this pistol.
Wilson Combat has earned the place to commemorate 45 years in business. Beautiful guns but, more importantly, they run and run well.
I just love precision. Meticulous attention to detail is also a favorite of mine.
Unsurpassed.
I have to have one! My grandparents moved to Arkansas (Judsonia) in 1949 My parents took us kids out there every summer. At one time my grandfather had 110 Winchesters and Henry's They were in his 'bomb shelter' which was where I slept as a kid. He also had dozens of Colt percussion guns and dueling pistol sets etc... That is how I got hooked and he bought me a High Standard 22 pistol
My first handgun was a 1911 Series 80, 1984 I had the frame hard chromed, and the slide (sides) laquer blued. Had an action job done by Ray Corn. This was (to me) the best handgun I ever owned.
Long Live the .45 and the 1911
And for another 45 years of Wilson Combat may your years be filled with quality and the pursuit of excellences
"Man-up, learn how to grip the gun". Hell yeah! This is why I like Hackathorn so much! #respect
The last 30 seconds were pure gold.
Absolutely stunning, especially that match grade.
Outstanding looking guns. Well done Bill !
Always love hearing Ken speak his mind, especially at the end of the video 🤣the man is a national treasure
That is a beautiful work of art. Many congratulations on your well-deserved success!
Thank you! Cheers!
Love the gripe at the end. Lol. No kidding.
Gorgeous gun, very worthy of being their anniversary trophy.
Oh. My. God. What a beautiful gun. I am definitely going to church this Sunday to ask God to forgive me for my envy and covetousness. Thank you Mr. Wilson and all who are involved in making this beautiful work of art. I will never be able to own one of these guns, but perhaps I don't need to. There is something in and of itself, of wanting but never having. Maybe just a regular ole Wilson pistol of some kind might be ok. Thanks for all the years of hard work you have given to this industry. There is only one Wilson.
I have a two tone 1996 Wilson Combat 38 Super with thousands and thousands of rounds through it. It STILL shoots one hole groups and runs flawlessly. I had its mate in 45 acp back in the day, but unfortunately hurricane Katrina ruined that one. The Super shoots so beautifully that I have to force myself to practice with my other handguns. Oh, almost forgot, thank you Ken for the last segment. I totally agree 👍.
That’s history at its best !
What a great history for 45 years !
You are an inspiration Bill
One word.......awesome!
Wow, thanks!
Love the two-tone......gorgeous!
What a great gun and what a great story. This is the American Dream in action: a man or woman with a talent, a vision, grit and determination to make a business that is number 1. This will only work if you have a superior product. Many thanks, Bill. --Old Guy
It's like art, only useful
Beautiful, masterful, elegant looking piece.
Mr Wilson you're a man to be like. An inspiration. God bless you 🙏
My dad worked on a turkey farm just outside of Berryville in the early to mid 70s. My first memories of shooting was there. It's the start of a lifetime loving guns. Thank you for your contributions to our industry and lifestyle.
Multi-Millionaire Bill Wilson, hanging out in his t-shirt talking about his passion. Mucho Respect Mr. Wilson.
I visited Wilson Combat myself to drop off my Wilson to get some work done I was extremely happy with a customer service and everything.
Beautiful pistols. I've been into .45's since 1962 . I've shot on Jim Clark's range and talked to him a few times . Love the weapons he made . I carried a couple of 45's in combat in the 60's and they never let me down .
You have to love Wilson!!
Congrats on 45th Anniversary!
proud owner of a custom super grade, one of a kind .45! I did the opposite. added pre-ban fossilized walrus grip.. blue slide and stainless upper!
Very nice!
Bill, some of my most treasured memories are shooting IPSC with the old MPPL bunch. I was part of the "Wheel Gunners" back in the 70s from St Joe.
We would drive 2 and a half hours to shoot a 50-round match. Be it the Cooper Assault, the Wheeler Nocturnomatc or even the Wilson Rapid Fire. It was the highlight of my month and i wouldn't miss it for the world.
I remember you when you were that guy in the Camaro from Berryville that kicked all our asses.
One of my most treasued possessions is an original Wilson Combat catalog that came with the MPPL match notice.
Just want to say congrats on 45 years of Wilson Combat! Last year, for my 65th birthday, I purchased an ECD 9. It is truly a master piece. Thanks for the great product. I am seriously considering ordering one of the supergrade 45th anniversary guns.
I wish you all the best as you continue on life's journey.
Steve Groshong
Stewartsville, MO
Ken I about spit my beer out! Learn how to grip the gun! So much truth in that Sir!
I love your channel and think the all blue is gorgeous. I wish I could afford one! Congratulations on 45 years of business!
Thank you so much!
I just completed my first 1911 Simi build. I took an SDS 1911 and put all WC internals into it. I love 1911's and hope to own a true Willson 1911 one day. There are not many pieces of true craftsmanship left in the world. I want to own one. Thanks Mr. Willson!
Thank you, Bill, Ken and Wilson Combat. Our WC 9mm and .45 are our best guns.
I have a Colt Series 70 in .45acp that I bought back when I lived in Missouri at a local gun show. The pistol was in excellent condition and I archived it until I relocated to Central Florida in 1983. Following Bill Wilson's gunsmithing activities I noted that at that time he offered a custom package deal that included replacing the barrel, hammer, trigger with match parts and a Bomar sight. I have had this handgun for well over 40 years and have shot it a significant amount in that time. It has become somewhat of a classic in my collection for many reasons.
Love your products. The ARs are second to none.
Love Ken's comments at the end!!!
I agree with Ken at the end. I like a nice simple slide. Rear slide serrations only looks so much better.
The two tone is absolutely perfect!!
The two tone on the desk looks like the gun they did for me in the early 80's..same sights. trigger, right hand thumb safety..and the commander hammer...deju vu....
Like anything it gets into the blood and becomes a passionate addiction and you have to feed the addiction by build a company to feed those needs financially to support it. 👍❤️
By good fortune I have a Wilson Combat late '70's two tone Commander. I was able to obtain it from an estate sale from an obvious hardcore 45 target shooter. As I was limited to one purchase a month, I took the Commander over the built target 45 on a Norinco frame. I wish I had of gotten both. The Commander was carried regularly and set up for full power 230 grain loads. It is my home defense pistol for many years now.
A beautiful firearm.
I absolutely love my Wilson 45 ACP.
Nothing would please me more than owning a Wilson 45ACP Firearm. Unfortunately they are out of my retired income. They are beautiful.
I haven’t seen anything I want for a long time but I want one of these!
Thanks again, Guys! Took me back in time.
AWESOME!
I want a super grade. Outstanding, Bill.
@ 10:50 I didn't know I needed such a tear jerker of a laugh...Pure gold!
Awesome products.
Great story!
Just beautiful. Aussie powerball is on tonight. If I win I'll fly over and pick them up in person. Then a Duesenberg to transport them in. What a dream.
Bill Wilson sold patents to Gaston Glock and the Glock was born.
Bill, you should do a Bill Wilson run of Gen 3 Glock. Tighter lockup, nicer trigger, better sights, undercut, smoother machining, and a 1911 grip with a Starburst pattern.
Haha loved Ken’s comments at the end 😂
Went to Indiana Gun Club on 2/3/23 to look at the 45 anniversary supergrade and the blued model. Left with both models!
Absolutely stunning works of art, I still think I would send ball ammo down range cant let them be idle.
These are Beautiful works of art. I'm actually more of a fan of blued guns. So the blued model would be more to my liking
Master Gun Maker.
2 Absolute legends very classic guns HAPPY 45❤️🇺🇸🇺🇸💤
Beautiful pistol
Love the end. Well said Mr. Hackathorn.
Been a fan since the beginning,,,,,,
I shot a match there with several other L/E personnel in the 70s. The
folks were all American then & I
am sure still are. Congratulations
on many years of a successful
business!👍😊🇺🇸
Dang STUNNING!!!!!! Love that 2 tone
Awesome video awesome gentleman.
Those are BEAUTIFUL.
They are!
That polished blued one is amazing. Man. I'd like to have one of those.
Man that's a beautiful gun !! Wilson does a great job on all there products.
Beautiful work and a great American 🇺🇸 story!
My favorite daily carry 1911
Bill, the jewelry shop where you started your gun business should be declared a heritage site (at least) or should be recognized by the Smithsonian Institute.
Two great examples of high quality American icons…oh, and the 1911 pistols are super nice as well. 🇺🇸🇺🇸👍🏻
I took my CCP class at Clark Custom Guns in Louisiana.
Nice!
Incredibly happy with my first Wilson Combat purchased about a month ago - the EDC 9X - a simply amazing gun. I own some pretty fine firearms, but in all honesty none rise to the occasion like the Wilson Combat. I have the privilege of shooting a lot of different handguns. After having shot a friend’s EDC 9 I immediately knew I had to have one, and that is the first time that has ever happened. I won’t mention other brands but even after shooting some very high-end firearms, they were something I had to think about before buying. They were most certainly really fine pistols, but there were things to consider about them in my mind. Not so with the Wilson Combat.
I will take one of each, Thanks Bill and Ken
Those sights are what I would want on that fancy dapper Fudd gun.
I have an Auto Ordnance Thompson 1911 that I was having feed issues with, sent it to Auto Ordnance twice only to be told it functions normally. I was about to throw it in a drawer until I could put it into a shadow box with some WWII pictures of soldiers using it, but while looking at some other 1911’s I told my salesman my issue and he recommended that I try putting a WC magazine, and it works great now. It is my home defense gun.
Great commercial but I think my favorite part was Ken Hackathorn talking about his distaste for “cheese grater” slides! 😂😂😂😂
Beautiful
Magnificent!!!
I think Bill said desert iron wood, nice.
Damn that is one fine looking piece of beauty!!!!
I think it would be a good idea for the gun community for WC to acquire or merge with Milt Sparks Holsters in Idaho. Their holsters are like your guns, the best.