CMP Resumes Surplus M1911/M1911A1 Pistol Sales
January 28, 2025
Civilian Marksmanship Program▸The First Shot▸CMP Resumes Surplus M1911/M1911A1 Pistol SalesThe Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) is excited to announce the immediate resumption of surplus U.S. Army M1911/M1911A1 pistol sales! These historic firearms, cherished for their role in U.S. military history, are now available to qualified US Citizen customers.

Key Details:
- Pistol Availability: The CMP currently holds a substantial inventory of a variety of Pistol Grades, many ready to ship to consumers, and expects to fulfill a significant quantity of orders.
- Free Shipping: Those purchasing a CMP M1911 pistol will receive free shipping and handling (a $25 value).
- Updated Process: Given the quantity of on-hand pistols, we reorganized our sales fulfillment structure and our staff is ready to process orders in a timely manner without the use of the Random Generated Number (RGN) process, as in past M1911 sales. Additional detail on fulfillment information and sequencing follows below.
Fulfillment Information:
- Round Four Orders Fulfilled First: The CMP will prioritize fulfilling existing orders from Round Four and will honor the pricing of those orders. Starting this week (Jan. 27, 2025), the CMP M1911 customer service representatives will contact Round Four individuals to confirm order details.
- New Orders Now Accepted: Effective immediately, the CMP is accepting new applications on a first-come, first-served basis. Again, we do not anticipate having more “rounds” or using RGN numbers as in the past.
Purchasing Guidelines:
- Limitations: A lifetime limit of two pistols per customer remains in effect. Customers who have not previously purchased a pistol may now submit an order for up to two pistols.
- Upgrades for Round Four Customers: Existing Round Four applicants making their first purchase may also upgrade their order to include two pistols.
CMP 1911 staff will reach out to customers when their order is ready to process. At that time, customers will indicate the pistol grade and quantity with CMP 1911 staff.
The CMP encourages all interested individuals to submit their applications promptly. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to own a piece of history!
Learn More:
To view M1911 Pistol Grades as well as additional info on eligibility requirements, ordering and other specifics, please visit the CMP’s website at https://thecmp.org/sales-and-service/1911-information/.
Our staff is also available to directly answer any questions on the CMP M1911 Program. Please reach out to cmp1911@thecmp.org with inquiries.
About the CMP:
The Civilian Marksmanship Program is a national organization dedicated to promoting firearms safety, training and marksmanship. The CMP supports its mission through the sale of firearms and ammunition to qualified individuals.
Our Mission: Promote excellence in marksmanship and firearms safety through nationwide youth programs, competitions, and partnerships with funding from the restoration and sale of historic American firearms in a secure and accountable process.
Our Vision: To lead the nation in marksmanship excellence providing safe, high quality and innovative programs with a focus on youth.
when will i know if my packet was approved or denied? I shipped my application 3 weeks ago and if i am missing anything would like to know so i can hopefully resubmit it in time or have contact with someone i can email what im missing to fix the issue.
Matthew,
Our 1911 staff is working on inputting all new orders into a spreadsheet and we’ll send out an email each week to let individuals know their order packet has been received. Once your order is ready to process, our staff will reach out if additional information is needed.
Thanks,
Christine
Sent in my packet was wandthing when I could get confirmation
Monte,
Our staff is working on receiving the packets and inputting information into a spreadsheet for new orders. The first email confirmation was sent out yesterday and we’ll continue to send out weekly email confirmations. If you sent in a packet, then you should receive an email confirmation in the upcoming week or so.
Thanks,
Christine
System is improving. Just got an email that my order was received for the new round of 1911’s.
What years can these range from? How new can they be?
The RGN number I was assigned on 11/27/23 is 46772. Is that number still in the list of orders, or should I submit another order?
Jeff,
I see your name and RGN on the Round 4 list we have – so you should be contacted in the next 1-3 months.
Thanks,
Christine
Once the paperwork is received by CMP, what are the processing times
I received a 1911 through the CMP previously. Does that count toward a lifetime limit of two .. or can I request two through the CMP 1911 program?
J. Linn,
If you already ordered one pistol, then you can order one more to equal the lifetime limit of two.
Thanks,
Christine
Can I have a 1911 order packet mailed through the post office? Thanks Tommy Nix
Tommy,
Yes, you can mail in your order packet through the post office! Some individuals track their package so they can confirm it has been delivered. At this time, our staff is limited and we do not send out notifications when your order is received.
Thanks,
Christine
I applied for a Round 3 1911, but did not receive an RGN number. Will I receive a 1911 from that application or do I have to apply again?
David,
It appears that your Round 3 packet may have been rejected for some reason. Please go ahead and send in a new order packet and our 1911 staff will contact you if anything is missing from your packet so they can process your order.
Thanks,
Christine
Can I make payment with an Electronic Check?
Harry,
We don’t take electronic checks at this time but hope to in the future!
Thanks,
Christine
My RGN from Round 4 is 45451. What number are they working on?
Our staff is processing the balance of the Round 4 orders now. I can’t tell you what RGN they are processing but if you read some of the comments on our Forum, https://forums.thecmp.org/forum/cmp-sales/cmp-1911, you may be able to find out who is being contacted.
Thanks,
Christine
It appears to me that most of the comments listed here could be easily answered by reading the CMP 1911 application instructions. I’m 73 yoa and it is difficult sometimes to comprehend things and I’m not a rocket scientist, but I struggled through the application process. That’s just my opinion and you know what people say about opinions. I’m also anxiously waiting my turn to receive an additional 1911. Respectfully yours.
James,
Thanks for your comment. Our staff is working hard to streamline the process and update our ancient sales processing systems but there are certain rules and regulations that we need follow.
Christine
Greetings! I received a Colt 1911 from one of the early CMP round of offerings. It is a service grade which has. “GI” slide. Is it possible to obtain somehow a “Colt” slide from the CMP? If not, do you have any recommendations where one might search for this part? Thank you.
Richard,
I don’t believe we are selling 1911 parts at this time.
Thanks,
Christine
What is your recommended method for securely sending hard copies of a customers entire identity to the CMP? I feel that there is a significant identity theft risk while in transit.
Thank you,
Andy
Andy,
Our practice is to receive sensitive information, particularly credit card information, by mail as online transmission by email is a far higher risk.
You are welcome to use express mail service to track your hard copies in transit to us.
Thanks,
Will
Ms Elder,
I am waiting for a call – my RGN has been passed over by well over 1000. I won’t leave my RGN here. I emailed last year right before the shut-down because I was on the bubble. I was told to contact them when my number was passed over by 1000. Then the shutdown. Now they’re being issued and I’m concerned my package was lost or there is some issue. I emailed again. No reply. I called and left a voice message. Again, no reply. Any ideas how I talk to a real person?
Garth,
Please send me an email at celder@thecmp.org with your RGN and I’ll see if our staff can tell me where they are in the order processing. I know they are currently processing Round 4 orders.
Thanks,
Christine
Hi, Is there a place we can sign in and see status, such as application received or any pending status? Thanks.
J,
Not at this time. We are working to enhance our sales software and that will take some time.
Thanks,
Christine
If my phone number I had listed with my order packet has changed since filling it out are there any other ways the cmp will reach out at time of purchase?
Simon,
Please send an email to cmp1911@thecmp.org with your full name, address, email and new phone number and explain the phone # on your original application has changed.
Thanks,
Christine
Hello,
The description is the same now for service and field guns, Can you describe the typical defferences
Hello,
I was wondering if you have any idea when 1911s might be making their way to the auction site. I am looking to purchase one, but I prefer to know what components exactly I am getting (Colt/RR/Ithaca/etc.), even if I have to pay more through the auction for it. I saw in the past some of the 1911s had reproduction slides, which I would like to avoid if possible. Let me know your thoughts.
Best,
Phil M.
At this time, we are uncertain as to when 1911s will return to auction. However, we are hopeful that they will be available soon. Since 1911 sales have only just resumed, it is likely that we will see them back once they are able to get back into the swing of things. Thank you for your patience! Keep an eye on our website and auction site for any updates.
The field grade description added the word “rust” near the beginning.
“…may exhibit minor pitting, and wear…”
vs
“…may exhibit minor RUST, pitting, and wear…”
They are otherwise the same. I had to read it through a couple of times to spot the difference.
When I get my call will I need to provide my dealers FFL# and address or do I need to have them send it to you?
First attempt to send gave failure
Rob,
Here’s the response I received back from our 1911 Manager:
Either would be fine.
Also, I think we can now look up valid FFLs by the customers zip code.
So if they have problems getting their FFLs info, we can give them an alternative.
Thanks
Dan Cain
Civilian Marksmanship Program
CMP1911 Manager
I am tearing up the house to find a copy of
my birth certificate. Will a state issued voter
registration card suffice for proof of citizenship?
Many thanks!
Stephen,
I don’t believe a Voter Registration Card will work unless it lists your U.S. place of birth.
Thanks,
Christine
I’m a member of a CMP club; I’m not with the CMP. However, I recommend contacting your state’s vital records department to get a certified copy of your birth certificate. Most states charge a nominal fee for this service. You really should have a certified birth certificate anyway.
Good luck!
If the lifetime limit is two 1911 can both be purchased with this current release?
Howard,
Yes, you can purchase your limit at once.
Thanks,
Christine
I’d like to purchase two 1911’s.
Jeff,
The details for ordering surplus 1911’s can be found on our website at https://thecmp.org/sales-and-service/1911-information/.
Thanks,
Christine
I am wanting to buy one 1911
I was in Vietnam 67 68
But all this page after page of instructions
Is confusing
Is there a simple way to do this ?
Eric,
Yes, the paperwork can be confusing. Please reach out with any questions to our CMP 1911 customer service staff at 256-770-4744. They will be able to help you complete your order.
Thank you,
Christine
In the description for the rack grade 1911s, it says that they’ll require some minor work to be returned to issuable condition. Can you give more details about what kind of minor work will be needed?
Hello,
We will be notified upon receipt of our order form request?
Thanks,
Jake
For existing round 4 buyers, if we buy two pistols are they both at round 4 pricing?
Thanks
Hello,
Do we receive confirmation that our order form was received? Since this just opened up, is this a new first come basis or are their previous orders from before this new round being processed?
Thank you.
Jacob,
We do have quite a few orders from Round 4 to process. Estimating about a month to get those orders processed and shipped. All new orders will be processed in the order that they are received.
Thanks,
Christine
Is it acceptable to send my application and required documents with a USPS priority mail express envelope? Was curious because it is one of the only ways to guarantee prompt delivery to cmp1911 and provide tracking to be sure my packet was received. I’m sure fedex and ups offer a similar service as well. Thank you
Daniel,
Yes you can send via USPS priority.
Thanks,
Christine
I’m inquiring about the status of my application submitted fall of 2024. I have received no notification of receipt or any number for a place in line. Is this submittal still active or do I have to resubmit now?
Thank you,
Daniel Benjey
Daniel,
Please send an email directly to cmp1911@thecmp.org and they will be able to check on that for you.
Thanks,
Christine
Thank you.
Been waiting for a reply for months. CMP is not responsive. Submitted my round 4 package over a year ago. Just trying to find out my number. Totally frustrating trying to communicate with CMP. Just continuing to wait and hope we get a call sometime.
Mark,
You can send an email to cmp1911@thecmp.org and they may be able to let you know what your RGN # is and a possible date…I believe they were hoping to contact everyone in Round 4 within the next month or so.
Thanks,
Christine
Is a hunting license still valid as proof of participation in a marksmanship activity?
Current or past military or law enforcement service.
• Participation in a rifle, pistol, air gun or shotgun
competition (provide copy of results bulletin).
• Completion of a marksmanship clinic that included
live fire training (provide a copy of the certificate of
completion or a statement from the instructor).
• Distinguished, Instructor, or Coach status.
• Concealed Carry License.
• Firearms Owner Identification Card that includes live
fire training.
• FFL or C&R license.
• Completion of a Hunter Safety Course that included
live fire training.
• Certification from range or club official or law
enforcement officer witnessing shooting activity. A
form for use in completing and certifying your range
firing can be downloaded from the CMP website.
• No proof of marksmanship required if over age 60.
Proof of club membership and citizenship required
for all ages.
would love to purchase 1911 am member of nea old trails rifle club and have ind. ccl
Ryan,
Yes, a copy of your hunting license will fulfill the marksmanship requirement.
Thanks,
Christine
Do we fill in the blank for the FFL Name on page 1A? Because Page 1A states, “All Blanks must be completed”. I just don’t want my application rejected. Thank you
Page 4A states, “DO NOT SEND FFL OR PAYMENT INFORMATION UNTIL CONTACTED. CMP will contact customers if their name is randomly drawn to process their 1911 order. If notified, customers will have 5 business days to submit payment and FFL information.”
Page 3A states, “IF NOTIFIED, CUSTOMERS WILL HAVE 5 BUSINESS DAYS TO SUBMIT FFL AND PAYMENT INFORMATION.” and “DO NOT SEND PAYMENT OR FFL INFORMATION AT THIS TIME.”
Henry,
You can input your FFL Name and location on the application as that will help our staff. Once your order is ready to process, our staff will call to get additional information (your pistol choice, payment info and FFL information). We will not reject any applications – our staff will call to get the information needed to process your order but it is helpful if everything is filled out.
We are working to streamline this process to make it easier for our customers.
Christine
Thanks a ton for this! Sent off my packet this morning, you’ll have it Monday. I was unsure if I’d have the chance to get one of these after missing Round 4. Absolutely cannot wait to get a Service Grade to go with my Garand!
Great to hear Jake! Our staff will be processing the balance of the Round 4 order, then we’ll get started on the new incoming orders in the order that they are received.
Christine
Any word on pricing? I am an Expert ( CMP and NRA), multiple times participation in Nationals at Camp Perry. Never participated in the program but I ‘d love to. How do I learn about the pricing?
Thanks,
Lenny Chopovsky
Lenny,
Pricing for the surplus 1911s is listed on our website at https://thecmp.org/sales-and-service/1911-information/#1911pricing.
Thanks,
Christine
Do you have order forms that can be filled out on a computer? Can I use my forms from Round 3 with appropriate changes, like the date etc.?
If I up grade to two pistols on my Round 4 application will I have to submit another set of forms for my 2nd pistol? My RGN is 47252.
No. When you are contacted by our sales team, let them know you would like to buy your limit. They will verify you qualify and proceed to take your order.
Good day. So the application/order form has to be mailed? Correct? There is no online or fax option?
Thanks!
Do you plan on uploading a fillable 1911 pistol order packet? Thank you.
S/F,
Gary
What is the FBI UPIN on the application?
Ryan,
If you have been denied a firearm multiple times or experience delays with the NICS background check, you can apply for a Voluntary Appeal File (VAF). Anyone may apply for the VAF, but it is designed for firearm purchasers who believe they are legally allowed to buy firearms, but they have been denied more than once or frequently experience delays in their transactions. Purchasers sometimes find themselves experiencing delays or denials in firearms purchases because of a past misdemeanor charge or because an ineligible person has a similar name. When you apply for the Voluntary Appeal File (VAF), FBI personnel will research your case and assign you a Unique Personal Identification Number (UPIN) if you have no firearms prohibitions. For future firearms transactions, you will provide your UPIN for your background check. You will still have to undergo a complete background check to buy a firearm, but the UPIN will help to confirm your identity.
Christine
I have never gone through this process. I would like to know what the cost of the different grade’s is to see if this is something that I can pay, being on a budget this is something that I need to know before I can purchase. I would love to have one if possible.
Tim,
See our pricing at https://thecmp.org/cmp-resumes-surplus-m1911-m1911a1-pistol-sales/.
Thanks,
Christine
can you send me a complete 1911 order packet
Bonnie,
I’ll email you the order packet. It can also be downloaded at https://thecmp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/2025-CMP1911-OrderForm.pdf
Christine
I was in Round 4, but missed my slot as I was out of the country and couldn’t get the phone call.
Will I be called again as existing Round 4, or do I need to reapply?
Thank you!
I assume the video is incorrect when the narrator says if you have previously purchased a CMP 1911 via the RNG process that you cannot purchase a second one. You are opening this new round without a RNG process and a previous 1911 customer like me can put a second application in now, correct?
Michael,
Correct, the video states the 1 pistol limit and we will need to edit that! Directly below the video, the caption states “Please Note: The lifetime limit of 1911 surplus pistols is now two.”.
We look forward to receiving your order packet for your second 1911 pistol!
Thanks,
Christine
Thanks, it’s in the mail now!
I be been waiting over one and a half years for my pistol. I have my number, but you say that is not required any longer. I hope I’m not to far off the list. I’m 80 years old now I hope I’ll get it before I go to the happy hunting grounds. Paul Peter DeBacco jr AZ. thank you!!!
Paul,
Our staff is processing the balance of the Round 4 orders now. I can’t tell you what RGN they are processing but if you read some of the comments on our Forum, https://forums.thecmp.org/forum/cmp-sales/cmp-1911, you may be able to find out who is being contacted.
Thanks,
Christine
Will you ship 1911s to MA?
No
Trying to order 1911 and can not open any link to purchase via the new system Thanks Bill
Bill,
I’ll email you the order packet. It can also be downloaded at https://thecmp.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/2025-CMP1911-OrderForm.pdf.
Thanks,
Christine Elder
CMP Communications Manager
The order form is not fillable,
Any estimated timeline for working through the existing RGNs?
Ben — hard to know for sure. We need to contact each customer from Round Four to confirm the purchase and other requirements for sale. That’s a bit time consuming but we are adding more staff to it. My guess is ~four weeks but don”t hold me to it! Be assured we’ll get through the backlog as quickly as we can. Get your orders in!!
Given the wait so far, another month isn’t going to hurt. Fingers crossed that 4 weeks doesn’t turn into 4 months.
Thanks for the reply.
Are the 1911s legal for customers in California
Yes. I have received one and it is a C&R.
Yes
I have made rifle purchases and you have notarized copies of my information. Do I need to do it again?
Rick,
Yes, you will need to send in a complete order packet, including notarized copies. CMP 1911 is an FFL governed operation and has its own record keeping system with no ties to other CMP records.
Thank you,
Christine
roger, Thank you
As these pistols are all C&R firearms, why are people not allowed to purchase with a C&R FFL?
Many of us have 03 ffls to augment our collections and purchase C&R firearms for private use, yet we need to utilize an 01, 02 or 07 FFL (and pay for their services) in order to buy these 1911 pistols.
John — we are looking into what options we might have with C&R. More to follow after we get a legal review.
I’m with John above. I too have a C&R – meaning I’ve already been verified by the ATF/FBI (otherwise they wouldn’t have approved my application). One would think your initial NICS check before the pistol ships would be enough to ensure the C&R buyer hadn’t become a prohibited person since his C&R was issued…
I had an M1 Garand shipped to my door (without a C&R) under CMP’s predecessor, The Director of Civilian Marksmanship (DCM) program back in the late 1980’s (for only $165 I might add). Why should the CMP be any different than the DCM ?
Please expedite your legal review.
Thank you.
Good Morning,
I’m a 67-year-old with military and law enforcement experience. Is proof of Military service at the E-7 level and Law Enforcement service adequate proof to satisfy the affiliated club and marksmanship requirements?
THANKS!
Zackary,
Yes, your military service will fulfill the affiliated club requirement and no proof of marksmanship is required if over age 60.
Have a nice day,
Christine
Hello, I noticed that it no longer says that a valid hunting license could be used to fullfil proof of participation in a marksmanship activity. Is this true?
I just sent an email, but I am interested in this program, are these firearms, SAFE/RELIABLE, for regular range use(that’s what I will use it for),or are they to be locked up in a display case???
Joseph,
All pistols are inspected and test fired by the CMP. See our pistol descriptions listed on the 1911 website at https://thecmp.org/sales-and-service/1911-information/.
Thank you,
Christine Elder
CMP Communications Manager
Thank-you!!!
Can you tell us what random generated number you will start with?
I have number 46974, when can I expect to be contacted?
Will any pistols be available theough south store in person?
John,
All 1911’s will be shipped to a 01, 02 or 07 Federal Firearms License. We are hoping to have a 1911 display at our stores in the near future!
Thanks,
Christine Elder
CMP Communications Manager