Stealth Arms Platypus Unboxing
The Stealth Arms Platypus has been making waves in the 2011 world for one primary reason: it brings Glock or Sig Sauer magazine compatibility to the 1911 double-stack platform. We finally got our hands on a custom-ordered unit, and it’s time to see if the hype matches the hardware.
Opening the Box: A Custom Experience
Unlike many "off-the-shelf" 2011s, every Platypus is a custom order. Upon unboxing, the first thing that strikes you is the finish. Stealth Arms offers an incredible array of Cerakote options, and the fit and finish on this frame-to-slide fit feel remarkably tight for a gun at this price point.
What’s in the box:
The Stealth Arms Platypus pistol.
Two Glock-style magazines.
A soft leather case and basic maintenance tools.
The Design: Why the Platypus?
The name "Platypus" is a nod to the animal itself—a strange hybrid that shouldn't work but does. By designing the grip module to take standard Glock 17 magazines, Stealth Arms solved the "expensive magazine" problem that plagues the 2011 platform. You get the world-class trigger of a 1911 with the reliability and affordability of Glock mags.
The grip itself is surprisingly slim. Because Glock magazines are thinner than traditional 2011 double-stack mags, the grip circumference is much more manageable for shooters with average-sized hands. It’s still quite comfortable for those of us with larger hands as well.
Optic Installation: Step-by-Step
The Platypus comes optics-ready with a direct-mount system or plate system depending on your configuration. For this setup, we went with a rugged red dot to match the "do-it-all" nature of the gun.
Remove the Cover Plate: Use the provided Hex key to remove the hidden screw securing the iron sight plate.
Clean the Surface: Ensure the mounting area is free of any factory oil or debris.
Seat the Optic: Place your optic onto the footprint. The tolerances are tight, which is exactly what you want to prevent shifting under recoil.
Torque and Threadlock: Apply a small drop of blue Loctite to your mounting screws. Torque them down to the manufacturer's spec (typically 15-20 inch-pounds).
Initial Verdict
The Stealth Arms Platypus feels like a high-quality tool. The trigger is crisp, the ergonomics are familiar yet improved, and the magazine compatibility is a game-changer. It’s a "mutant" of the firearms world that feels right at home here at Jim's Armory.
Stay tuned for our full range report to see how those Glock mags cycle under pressure!
