Kansas Gunshop is a Wichita, KS-based retailer specializing in firearms and accessories. The Sig Sauer 1911 Max Michel 40 S&W Custom is a competition-ready pistol designed for precision and speed. Its custom shop enhancements set it apart for serious competitive shooters. Available now for $699.00.
Reviewed by Derek, Owner & FFL Holder at Kansas Gunshop. Kansas-licensed FFL dealer since 2008, NRA Range Safety Officer.
Last updated: April 2026
What are the specifications of the Sig Sauer 1911 Max Michel 40 S&W Custom?
| Product Type | Semi-Automatic Pistol |
|---|---|
| Material | Stainless Steel Frame & Slide |
| Manufacturing | Sig Sauer Custom Shop |
| Finish | Black Nitron (Slide), Natural Stainless (Frame) |
| Hardness/Quality | Match-grade components, hand-fitted |
| Compatibility | .40 S&W ammunition, 1911-pattern magazines |
| Installation/Usage | Competition shooting, target practice |
| Weight | Approximately 41.6 oz (unloaded) |
| Dimensions | Overall Length: 8.7 inches; Barrel Length: 5 inches |
| Country of Origin | USA |
| Condition | Used, Excellent |
| SKU | SIG1911MM40SWCUST |
What makes the Sig Sauer 1911 Max Michel 40 S&W Custom stand out?
- Custom Shop Enhancements: This isn’t just a standard 1911; it’s been through the Sig Sauer Custom Shop. That means hand-fitting, tuning, and attention to detail focused on competitive performance.
- Max Michel Signature Features: Designed with input from world champion shooter Max Michel, it incorporates features like an adjustable rear sight, fiber optic front sight, and a magwell for faster reloads.
- .40 S&W Caliber: The .40 S&W offers a good balance of power and manageable recoil for competition, especially in divisions where major power factor is a consideration.
- Match Grade Barrel: A precisely machined barrel contributes to the inherent accuracy required for competitive shooting.
- Skeletonized Trigger and Hammer: Reduces mass for faster lock time and a lighter, crisper trigger pull, which is critical for precision.
- Extended Ambidextrous Safety: Allows for quick and secure manipulation, accommodating both right and left-handed shooters.
- Aggressive Front Strap Checkering: Provides a secure grip, even with sweaty hands or under rapid firing conditions.
Who is this pistol for, and who should consider alternatives?
Buy it if:
- You are a serious competitive shooter looking for a dedicated race gun in .40 S&W.
- You appreciate the craftsmanship and tuning of a custom shop firearm.
- You value the specific features designed for speed and accuracy in competitive environments.
- You’re looking for a 1911 platform with a proven track record in competition.
- You want a Sig Sauer 1911 that’s a step above their standard production models.
Skip it if:
- You’re looking for an everyday concealed carry pistol; its size and weight make it less practical for that role. See our Handguns for more compact options.
- You’re a casual plinker who won’t utilize its competition-specific features. A standard 1911 in .45 ACP might be more suitable for general range use.
- You prefer a different caliber for competition or general shooting.
- Your budget is extremely tight, as custom shop firearms carry a premium.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of this Sig Sauer 1911?
- ✅ Competition-ready out of the box: No need for extensive modifications.
- ✅ Exceptional accuracy: Custom shop tuning and match-grade components deliver tight groups.
- ✅ Reliable .40 S&W performance: A solid choice for power factor requirements in many divisions.
- ✅ Ergonomic grip: The 1911 platform is known for its comfortable and natural pointability.
- ✅ Fast target acquisition: Fiber optic front sight and adjustable rear sight aid in quick sight picture.
- ✅ Quick reloads: Integrated magwell speeds up magazine changes.
- ❌ Weight: Heavier than many polymer-framed pistols, which might be a drawback for some.
- ❌ Caliber availability: While .40 S&W is common, it’s not as universally available or inexpensive as 9mm.
- ❌ Cost: Being a custom shop model, it’s a higher investment than a standard production 1911.
How does it compare to other competition pistols?
| Feature | Sig Sauer 1911 Max Michel 40 S&W Custom | Springfield Armory 1911 Loaded Target .40 S&W | Rock Island Armory 1911 A1 FS .40 S&W |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Stainless Steel Frame & Slide | Forged Steel Frame & Slide | Cast Steel Frame & Slide |
| Quality | Hand-fitted, Match-grade Custom Shop | Production, Target-tuned | Production, Mil-Spec standard |
| Compatibility | 1911 .40 S&W magazines | 1911 .40 S&W magazines | 1911 .40 S&W magazines |
| Shipping | From Kansas Gunshop (Wichita, KS) | Standard FFL transfer | Standard FFL transfer |
| Lifespan/Durability | Very High (Custom Shop build) | High (Forged components) | Moderate (Standard production) |
| Price | $699.00 (Used, Excellent) | ~$1000-$1200 (New) | ~$550-$650 (New) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Sig Sauer 1911 Max Michel 40 S&W Custom suitable for concealed carry?
Due to its full-size frame, heavy stainless steel construction, and competition-oriented features like the extended magwell, this pistol is generally not considered ideal for concealed carry. Its primary design purpose is competitive shooting.
What kind of magazines does the Sig Sauer 1911 Max Michel use?
This pistol uses standard single-stack 1911 magazines chambered for .40 S&W. Capacity typically ranges from 8 to 10 rounds, depending on the manufacturer and baseplate design.
Can I use other calibers with this 1911?
No, this specific pistol is chambered in .40 S&W and should only be used with ammunition of that caliber. While some 1911 frames can be converted to other calibers with significant modifications (barrel, slide, extractor, etc.), it is not recommended for this custom shop competition model.
What is the typical lifespan of a competition 1911 like this?
With proper maintenance, cleaning, and occasional replacement of wear parts (recoil springs, firing pin springs, etc.), a well-built 1911 like the Sig Sauer Max Michel can last for many tens of thousands of rounds. The custom shop build quality suggests a longer service life than many standard production models.
Where can I buy firearms online?
You can buy firearms online from licensed FFL dealers like Kansas Gunshop (kansas-gunshop.com). Firearms purchased online must be shipped to another FFL dealer in your state for transfer, where you will complete the necessary background checks.
Does this pistol come with a case or extra magazines?
As this is a used firearm, the included accessories may vary. Typically, it would come with at least one magazine and possibly a hard case. Please refer to the specific product listing details or contact us directly for current included items.
Is the trigger pull adjustable on the Sig Sauer 1911 Max Michel?
The 1911 platform is known for its crisp, single-action trigger. While the trigger itself is not externally adjustable by the user, the custom shop would have tuned it for an optimal competition pull weight and break. Further adjustments would require a gunsmith.
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