Based in Knoxville, Tennessee, SDS Imports introduced a Commander-length M1911A1 late last year, the Tanker, and we have been taking one of these updated .45s for a spin.
SDS specializes in importing quality pistols, shotguns, and accessories. In the past few years, they have partnered with Tisas in Turkey to supply well-made M1911-style handguns to the U.S. market that have built a following through a combination of good reviews and affordable pricing. The Tanker, quietly debuted last October, is set to continue that trend.
While the "Tanker" moniker is typically applied to shortened T26 M1 Garands and similar chopped-down rifles in the same vein, the SDS version is an upgraded M1911A1 Government with a full-sized frame and Commander-length – or 4.25-inch rather than the traditional 5-inch – barrel, and corresponding slide.
The asking price on the SDS Imports Tisas Tanker M1911A1 is typically well under $500 and includes one 8-shot magazine and cleaning kit.