American Tactical Import’s (ATI) new FXH-45 Polymer 1911 has become available after being unveiled at SHOT 2016.  Friend of TFB Hank Strange got his hands on a production model prior to SHOT 2016, and has been giving it a thorough assessment.  In his initial video overview, he seems to have overall positive experience with the FXH-45, and was also able to get it to function reliably with a suppressor.  I was excited to see the FXH-45 in action, as I am a big 1911 aficionado, and I do welcome the innovation that polymer frames bring to the platform.

note the front sight does not use a dovetail

Though the FXH-45 comes from ATI, it is not an import, as it is American-made.  The FXH-45 is a bit different from the Witness Elite or Rock River polymer 1911s, as it uses aluminum rather than steel inserts in the frame.  Due to this difference, as possibly the cutouts on the slide, the FXH is 4.5oz lighter than its competitors.  The FXH also features finger grooves molded into the grip, a cutout and removable plate on top of the side for optics, and interchangeable sights that are compatible with Glocks rather than other 1911s or a proprietary system.  Hopefully, we will see different sizes and configurations of the FXH-45 in the future.  The FXH-45 has an MSRP of $659.95.

Ambidextrous safeties come standard

Here’s the specs on the FXH-45, straight from ATI:

Features

• Full Size
• Single Action
• Semi Automatic
• 8+1 Capacity
• Removeable Top Plate Allows the Addition of American Tactical Optic Mount for Trijicon RMR and Burris Fastfire Sights – Available Separately.

Specs

• Caliber:  .45 ACP
• Height: 5.4″
• Length: 8.7″
• Weight: 27.5 oz Empty w/ no Magazine
• Magazine Capacity:  8

Frame

• Material:  Polymer w/ 2 7075-T6 Aluminum Inserts
• Finish:  MilSpec Hard Coat Anodize on Inserts
• Color:  Black

Slide

• Material:  416 Stainless Steel
• Finish:  QPQ Black Nitride
• Color:  Black

Sights

• Accepts Glock Front and Rear Sights
• Accepts Aftermarket Night Sights

Grips

• Black Polymer

Barrel

• 5″ 416 Stainless Steel Match Grade

Trigger

• Overtravel Adjustable, Skeletonized Alloy, Silver Color”

Thanks to Hank Strange for his assistance!

Video courtesy of Hank Strange

Still photos courtesy of ATI