Gunsmithing 1911 Build

[operatorj]

I know someone hear among this vast array of experience has built a 1911 from bare frame. I was thinking of buying a Caspian frame and slide pre-fit and was just wondering how hard it is to fit everything else. Most of the other parts will be Ed Brown and Cylinder and Slide. Any input I can get on the subject would be a great help.

 

[RADcustom]

Re: 1911 Build

The first one is the hardest one. There are several moving parts that have to be fit properly in order for it to function.

It would help if you could watch someone do it before hand, but if you have a good understanding of mechanical things and are technical minded and can file straight, you should be fine.

You can PM me and I will explain in greater detail if you like.

Good luck

 

[Greg Langelius *]

Re: 1911 Build

I agree. Trigger work is not for the inexperienced, and first builds should be conducted under the watchful gaze of an experienced 1911 Smith. They are hard, but not impossible, to bugger up beyond repair. I know this the hard way. The difference between a good 1911 and a great 1911 isn't in the parts, it's in the fitting. These days, it's a lost art where I'm concerned. I don't do handguns anymore, period; I am already far too busy with my rifles and shotguns. As said above, several parts absolutely need good fitting, but in truth, they can probably all benefit from experienced massaging.

Greg

 

[Onemoretime]

Re: 1911 Build

Since we cannot get bare frames here in CA I started with a RIA GI spec 1911 for $389.

I would recommend doing that first, that way if you screw it all up you are only out about $400.

Here is mine. I replaced everything but the barrel as I didn't want to mess with fitting a barrel yet and it was shooting well as it was. http://www.snipershide.com/forum/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=1398531#Post1398531

There are jigs for most of the work just make sure you don't get carried away because once you take the metal away it's real tough to get back.

Also, the Ed Brown hammer, sear, and disconnecter that I used were somewhat pre-fit but you still need to marry them up. There are lots of resources online, just go slow.

 

[operatorj]

Re: 1911 Build

Thanks for the responce guys. I've done some fitting parts to 1911's before ( grip safety, mainspring houseing etc.) its just the trigger, hammer and sear, and the thumb safety that gat me alittle worried. I guess the old saying slow is smooth would really need to be applied.

 

[rrflyer]

Re: 1911 Build

thumb safety is easy as pie.

EGW makes a firing parts kit thats pre-fitted and ready to go.

 

[operatorj]

Re: 1911 Build

Thanks for the info. I just wasn't forsure on it.