Make: Ed Brown

Model: Kobra Carry

Serial Number: 0983

Year of Manufacture: Ca. 2000-2002

Caliber: .45 ACP (Automatic Colt Pistol)

Action Type: Semi-Automatic, Single Action, Fed by Detachable Magazine

Barrel Length: 4 1/4”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade with a tritium lamp dovetailed to the front of the slide. The rear sight is a Novak's square-notch sight with two tritium lamps dovetailed and screw-set to the rear of the slide. The lamps have dimmed significantly, but are still usable as a three-dot set in daylight.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are double-diamond-checkered cocobolo wood panels. The grips have no notable wear or damage, only light handling marks. The checkering is well defined. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Fine-Excellent condition. The front strap and mainspring housing feature Ed Brown’s distinctive Snakeskin texturing, which provides a unique, firm grip profile.

Type of Finish: Matte Stainless Steel

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright, the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore, just a little stubborn fouling. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9/10.

Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 98% of its metal finish. There are a few minor marks. There is a faint "idiot mark" under the slide-stop. The action shows minor operational wear. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this pistol rates in about Excellent condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this pistol. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This pistol comes in a blue Ed Brown range bag with warranty statement, manual, cable lock and a total of two original 8-round magazines.

Our Assessment: The Ed Brown Kobra Carry is a benchmark of modern 1911 craftsmanship, combining custom-grade construction with enhanced carry features. Known for its Snakeskin grip treatment and Bobtail mainspring housing, the Kobra Carry delivers exceptional ergonomics and concealability without compromising reliability or shootability.

Ed Brown pistols are widely regarded as among the best in the 1911 world, and the Kobra Carry stands out for its sleek aesthetics and hand-fit performance. The attention to detail and ultra-tight tolerances elevate this above typical production pistols. With its 4.25" Commander-length barrel and Bobtail frame, this is one of the finest EDC-ready 1911s available.

This particular example is in Excellent condition with its original range bag and a pair of magazines. For the serious shooter, collector of custom 1911s, or someone wanting a high-end .45 ACP for daily carry, this Kobra Carry represents an ideal choice. Please see our photos and good luck!