Auto-Ordnance Quality under Kahr

[The Virginian]

I have noticed that Kahr has made some changes to A-O 1911s such as vertical slide milled slots on their GI model and using barstock slides. Their cast frames they claim are now 4140, not 4130 carbon steel and are held to better quality control. I am not sure if the small parts are MIM, Cast or forged, but the last A-O 1911-A1 I saw at a show looked much better than ones I saw under the old management. Is the general concensus that they are better and hold their own with the competition, or do they have a long way to go? I read somewhere that they use Caspian cast frames, and do the final machining themselves, is that true?

[nraman4ever]

I just genuinely don't trust Kahr, from my experiences with them they make a ****** product.

[RichBaker]

I've gotta say that my MK40 bears absolutely no resemblance to that remark....after break -in, I've had NO problems whatsoever. Had a few feed problems when new, but none in the last 7 years...couldn't say about their 1911s, though.

[Hunter]

I have heard from several folks that the Kahr made AO 1911 is a well made pistol and much improved since Kahr bought AO.
I have a new AO Thompson and though it is not a 1911 I can say quality is excellent.

[RitaR]

Mine took a lot of work by a gunsmith. I wish I had purchased a Springfield.

[wmrawls]

Mine took a lot of work by a gunsmith. I wish I had purchased a Springfield.
I know this is an older thread but wanted to put my two cents in. I picked up an AO 1911 last week and have been very impressed with its accuracy and performance to date. I admit that as of today I have only put 250 rounds threw it and there were some early on fail to feeds and stove pipes but it smoother out after the second set of 50 rounds. A good cleaning and a good going over with a fine rag did not detect any burrs or rough edges. So far, for what I paid for it, I am satisfied. I also have a Kahr CW9 that I have been using for over a year, at least 500 rounds through it, accurate as **** for the distance it is designed for and I have had not a single Fail to feed, or stove pipe or misfire nor has it failed to function in any way. So while Kahr may have issues with service, the products I have bought have been well worth the money I paid and have lived up to my Expectations.