The Union Switch & Signal Co., a manufacturer of railroad
signalling equipment, was contracted by the U.S. government
in 1942 to produce 200,000 M1911A1 pistols. Around 1100
US&S workers, most of whom were women, were employed for this
task. However, due to contract cancellations a total of
only 55,000 pistols were produced by Nov. 1943. US&S produced
very high quality pistols and received special commendation
for their superior Du-Lite blue finish applied over a sand-
blasted surface (ref. Clawson).

US&S service pistols, loosely referred to as the "poor man's
Singer", are notable for certain distinctive features (ref.
Clawson):

• Absence of the "crossed cannon" Ordnance stamp on receiver.
  
  
• Even though all pistols 104xxxx onward were proof-fired,
  the P proof markings on receiver & slide did not appear
  until approximately 1060xxx.
  
  
• The P proof, when present, is smaller than the P proof seen
  on Colts of the same production year.
  
  
• Coarse linear machining marks are typically seen oriented
  horizontally along the slide.
  
  
• Circled R.C.D. (Robert C. Downie) inspector stamp on receiver.
  
  

• Left Full View
  
• Left View (small)
  
• Left Oblique I
  
• Left Oblique II
  
• Left Oblique III
  
  
  
• Right Full View
  
• Right View (small)
  
• Right Oblique I
  
• Right Oblique II
  
• Right Oblique III
  
  
  
• Markings I
  
• Markings II
  
• Markings III
  
• Markings III
  
• Markings IV
  
• Markings V
  
• Markings VI
  
  
  
• Rear I
  
• Rear II
  
• Rear III
  
  
  
• Rear Sight
  
• Front Sight
  
  
  
• Trigger I
  
• Trigger II
  
• Trigger III
  
  
  
• Front Strap
  
• Mainspring Housing
  
• Grip Safety
  
• Ejection Port
  
• Dust Cover
  
• Hammer
  
• Muzzle
  
• Thumb Safety
  
• Barrel
  
• Butt

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