PISTOL: PARA ORDNANCE MODEL 1911 GI EXPERT, SERIAL NUMBER G102469, SEMI - AUTOMATIC, 45, BLUE, NOT INCLUDED, 5 Notes: Para Ordnance 1911 GI Expert- 45 ACP Some Imperfections ( See Photos) The Para-Ordnance GI Expert is a full-size, Government-pattern 1911 chambered in .45 ACP, made by Para USA (formerly Para-Ordnance). It was positioned as an affordable, service-oriented 1911 rather than a highly customized competition pistol. The GI Expert was cataloged under model numbers GI45 and GI45-EK. Basic characteristics Caliber: .45 ACP Configuration: Full-size 1911, single-action Barrel: 5-inch Government-length Magazine: Typically 8-round single-stack Frame/slide: Forged components Sights: More usable than traditional GI sights Grip safety: Beavertail style Thumb safety: Enlarged 1911-style manual safety Ejection port: Lowered/scalloped Trigger: One of the stronger features of the GI Expert; testing found a smooth, crisp pull around 4.5 lb. How it differs from a true GI 1911 Despite the "GI" name, it isn't simply a reproduction of a WWII-era M1911A1. Para retained the classic military appearance while adding several modern improvements. The sights are more practical, the ejection port is lowered, the grip safety is a beavertail, and the barrel/slide fit was substantially better than many basic military-style reproductions. One published 25-yard test produced average five-shot groups ranging from about 3.25 to 4.25 inches, depending on ammunition, which is quite respectable for a service-grade .45 1911.