Browning has announced the specifications of their new mini-1911 pistol.

It is a replica of a standard 1911 but is scaled down to 85% of the original size. The frame and slide are made from an aluminum alloy with a blued-like finish. The gun utilizes a straight blowback action. The sights are fixed.

In my opinion, not having seen the pistol, the only let down is the plastic grips. Nice wooden grips would suit this little pistol much better – especially with the $600 pricetag being a lot higher than other 1911-style .22 pistol.

The pistol is being released next year in celebration of the 100th anniversary of John Browning’s masterpiece. All 1911-22′s shipped in 2011 will receive a commemorative canvas and leather pistol case.

I really look forward to shooting this gun. It looks like a lot of fun.