I was just reading that upgrading parts on a 1911 isn't as easy as AR15's. To what extent is this true? Kind of bummed because that was the logic I was using to get into 1911's. Thought I could start off with something affordable (Taurus or some second hand deal ) and then upgrade bits and pieces as time went on. Seems that is not really an option without taking some gunsmithing classes.
Sidearms & Scatterguns Customizing 1911
- Thread starter jericho
- Start date
Re: Customizing 1911
1911s are very simply designed... but aren't designed to be modular like an AR... they are very easy to work on, but you will have to fit a LOT of the parts, it's doable w/ hand tools and easily learned
1911s are very simply designed... but aren't designed to be modular like an AR... they are very easy to work on, but you will have to fit a LOT of the parts, it's doable w/ hand tools and easily learned
Re: Customizing 1911
There's a bit of a learning curve with 1911s. Putting together a gun that will function can be done with a little bit of elbow grease, asking around, and reading. Putting together a gun that won't self destruct(premature parts wear) over a high round count takes a bit more skill.
The most important thing I've learned in my long history with the 1911 (I've been working on them since I was 14) is when you first test fire it only load a couple of rounds in the mag so if it goes full auto due to something being out of adjustment in the firing train your not endangering yourself or someone else.
I had a long love affair with the 1911. I've had 1911s made by Vickers, Heinie, Morris, etc before I discovered that you can put together something functional, accurate and reliable by myself. I think the simplest way is to buy one of Springfield's loaded models(I like the Mil-Spec Loaded models) and put all bar-stock tool-steel guts in it. Springfield barrels are really good. I've put a bunch of stock Springers in a Ransom rest and they are more than accurate enough for anything but bullseye comps. Replace the stupid mainspring housing ILS backstrap-safety contraption, fit a new hammer, sear, disconnector with a new pin set, install new springs, ditch the full length guide rod, fit a new trigger with integral stop, new mag release, and install a HD slide stop(I like the 10-8 performance slide stop). If you have the time/money you could also fit new barrel bushing(helps accuracy), dehorn the entire gun, have it refinished, and modify the firing pin hole/install a normal size firing colt firing pin.
Or you could just shoot a Glock and save yourself a bunch of time/money.
There's a bit of a learning curve with 1911s. Putting together a gun that will function can be done with a little bit of elbow grease, asking around, and reading. Putting together a gun that won't self destruct(premature parts wear) over a high round count takes a bit more skill.
The most important thing I've learned in my long history with the 1911 (I've been working on them since I was 14) is when you first test fire it only load a couple of rounds in the mag so if it goes full auto due to something being out of adjustment in the firing train your not endangering yourself or someone else.
I had a long love affair with the 1911. I've had 1911s made by Vickers, Heinie, Morris, etc before I discovered that you can put together something functional, accurate and reliable by myself. I think the simplest way is to buy one of Springfield's loaded models(I like the Mil-Spec Loaded models) and put all bar-stock tool-steel guts in it. Springfield barrels are really good. I've put a bunch of stock Springers in a Ransom rest and they are more than accurate enough for anything but bullseye comps. Replace the stupid mainspring housing ILS backstrap-safety contraption, fit a new hammer, sear, disconnector with a new pin set, install new springs, ditch the full length guide rod, fit a new trigger with integral stop, new mag release, and install a HD slide stop(I like the 10-8 performance slide stop). If you have the time/money you could also fit new barrel bushing(helps accuracy), dehorn the entire gun, have it refinished, and modify the firing pin hole/install a normal size firing colt firing pin.
Or you could just shoot a Glock and save yourself a bunch of time/money.
Re: Customizing 1911
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: secondstoryguy</div><div class="ubbcode-body">There's a bit of a learning curve with 1911s. Putting together a gun that will function can be done with a little bit of elbow grease, asking around, and reading. Putting together a gun that won't self destruct(premature parts wear) over a high round count takes a bit more skill.
The most important thing I've learned in my long history with the 1911 (I've been working on them since I was 14) is when you first test fire it only load a couple of rounds in the mag so if it goes full auto due to something being out of adjustment in the firing train your not endangering yourself or someone else.
I had a long love affair with the 1911. I've had 1911s made by Vickers, Heinie, Morris, etc before I discovered that you can put together something functional, accurate and reliable by myself. I think the simplest way is to buy one of Springfield's loaded models(I like the Mil-Spec Loaded models) and put all bar-stock tool-steel guts in it. Springfield barrels are really good. I've put a bunch of stock Springers in a Ransom rest and they are more than accurate enough for anything but bullseye comps. Replace the stupid mainspring housing ILS backstrap-safety contraption, fit a new hammer, sear, disconnector with a new pin set, install new springs, ditch the full length guide rod, fit a new trigger with integral stop, new mag release, and install a HD slide stop(I like the 10-8 performance slide stop). If you have the time/money you could also fit new barrel bushing(helps accuracy), dehorn the entire gun, have it refinished, and modify the firing pin hole/install a normal size firing colt firing pin.
Or you could just shoot a Glock and save yourself a bunch of time/money.
</div></div>
I was actually considering doing exactly that.Getting a Springfield and in time tinkering with it and upgrade bit by bit. Also keep thinking about just getting a Sig 220 and be done with it, but where is the fun and achievement in that?
Will look out for a used Range Officer or a newer Mil Spec.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: secondstoryguy</div><div class="ubbcode-body">There's a bit of a learning curve with 1911s. Putting together a gun that will function can be done with a little bit of elbow grease, asking around, and reading. Putting together a gun that won't self destruct(premature parts wear) over a high round count takes a bit more skill.
The most important thing I've learned in my long history with the 1911 (I've been working on them since I was 14) is when you first test fire it only load a couple of rounds in the mag so if it goes full auto due to something being out of adjustment in the firing train your not endangering yourself or someone else.
I had a long love affair with the 1911. I've had 1911s made by Vickers, Heinie, Morris, etc before I discovered that you can put together something functional, accurate and reliable by myself. I think the simplest way is to buy one of Springfield's loaded models(I like the Mil-Spec Loaded models) and put all bar-stock tool-steel guts in it. Springfield barrels are really good. I've put a bunch of stock Springers in a Ransom rest and they are more than accurate enough for anything but bullseye comps. Replace the stupid mainspring housing ILS backstrap-safety contraption, fit a new hammer, sear, disconnector with a new pin set, install new springs, ditch the full length guide rod, fit a new trigger with integral stop, new mag release, and install a HD slide stop(I like the 10-8 performance slide stop). If you have the time/money you could also fit new barrel bushing(helps accuracy), dehorn the entire gun, have it refinished, and modify the firing pin hole/install a normal size firing colt firing pin.
Or you could just shoot a Glock and save yourself a bunch of time/money.
</div></div>
I was actually considering doing exactly that.Getting a Springfield and in time tinkering with it and upgrade bit by bit. Also keep thinking about just getting a Sig 220 and be done with it, but where is the fun and achievement in that?
Will look out for a used Range Officer or a newer Mil Spec.
Re: Customizing 1911
I am very partial to, and passionate about 1911s.
"secondstoryguy" had some very good suggestions, but the first thing is to get the book "The Colt .45 Automatic: A Shop Manual Volume 1" by Jerry Kuhnhausen, then study it well. You can get this from Midway. Then, go to 10-8performance.com and read his articles (plus he makes outstanding parts).
You may want to consider getting an RI or an old Norinco for cheap to start with before you set off on a higher $$$ 1911. They are a good base gun to start with regarding the steel hardness and accuracy of the basic machining, unlike Taurus.
Kevin
I am very partial to, and passionate about 1911s.
"secondstoryguy" had some very good suggestions, but the first thing is to get the book "The Colt .45 Automatic: A Shop Manual Volume 1" by Jerry Kuhnhausen, then study it well. You can get this from Midway. Then, go to 10-8performance.com and read his articles (plus he makes outstanding parts).
You may want to consider getting an RI or an old Norinco for cheap to start with before you set off on a higher $$$ 1911. They are a good base gun to start with regarding the steel hardness and accuracy of the basic machining, unlike Taurus.
Kevin
Re: Customizing 1911
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: ktdls7</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I am very partial to, and passionate about 1911s.
"secondstoryguy" had some very good suggestions, but the first thing is to get the book "The Colt .45 Automatic: A Shop Manual Volume 1" by Jerry Kuhnhausen, then study it well. You can get this from Midway. Then, go to 10-8performance.com and read his articles (plus he makes outstanding parts).
You may want to consider getting an RI or an old Norinco for cheap to start with before you set off on a higher $$$ 1911. They are a good base gun to start with regarding the steel hardness and accuracy of the basic machining, unlike Taurus.
Kevin </div></div>
I see there is also "The U.S. M1911/1911A1 Pistols: A Shop Manual Volume 2". Besides getting both, which would be more useful or relevant? How different are they?
Thanks for all the help so far.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: ktdls7</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I am very partial to, and passionate about 1911s.
"secondstoryguy" had some very good suggestions, but the first thing is to get the book "The Colt .45 Automatic: A Shop Manual Volume 1" by Jerry Kuhnhausen, then study it well. You can get this from Midway. Then, go to 10-8performance.com and read his articles (plus he makes outstanding parts).
You may want to consider getting an RI or an old Norinco for cheap to start with before you set off on a higher $$$ 1911. They are a good base gun to start with regarding the steel hardness and accuracy of the basic machining, unlike Taurus.
Kevin </div></div>
I see there is also "The U.S. M1911/1911A1 Pistols: A Shop Manual Volume 2". Besides getting both, which would be more useful or relevant? How different are they?
Thanks for all the help so far.
Re: Customizing 1911
The first book and info from the 10-8 website is all you really need to get a good understanding of everything.
The first book and info from the 10-8 website is all you really need to get a good understanding of everything.
Re: Customizing 1911
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: ktdls7</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I am very partial to, and passionate about 1911s.
"secondstoryguy" had some very good suggestions, but the first thing is to get the book "The Colt .45 Automatic: A Shop Manual Volume 1" by Jerry Kuhnhausen, then study it well. You can get this from Midway. Then, go to 10-8performance.com and read his articles (plus he makes outstanding parts).
You may want to consider getting an RI or an old Norinco for cheap to start with before you set off on a higher $$$ 1911. They are a good base gun to start with regarding the steel hardness and accuracy of the basic machining, unlike Taurus.
Kevin </div></div>
As an old 1911 fan I totaly approve with this guys suggestions. Money in the bank.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: ktdls7</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I am very partial to, and passionate about 1911s.
"secondstoryguy" had some very good suggestions, but the first thing is to get the book "The Colt .45 Automatic: A Shop Manual Volume 1" by Jerry Kuhnhausen, then study it well. You can get this from Midway. Then, go to 10-8performance.com and read his articles (plus he makes outstanding parts).
You may want to consider getting an RI or an old Norinco for cheap to start with before you set off on a higher $$$ 1911. They are a good base gun to start with regarding the steel hardness and accuracy of the basic machining, unlike Taurus.
Kevin </div></div>
As an old 1911 fan I totaly approve with this guys suggestions. Money in the bank.
Re: Customizing 1911
And, yes you can certainly do wrong and have a gun that works very poorly.
To me it's easy, just go to any IPSC match and look on how many who have loads of problems with their pistols.....
Håkan
And, yes you can certainly do wrong and have a gun that works very poorly.
To me it's easy, just go to any IPSC match and look on how many who have loads of problems with their pistols.....
Håkan
Re: Customizing 1911
http://smartflix.com/store/category/71/1911
browse and rent to see what you are getting yourself into.
http://smartflix.com/store/category/71/1911
browse and rent to see what you are getting yourself into.
Re: Customizing 1911
I love dinking with a 1911. I have had a couple of Les Baers that I thought were great for the price and still have several factory guns with varying degrees of modifications.
A few years ago, I bought a base model Colt. When I picked it up, the gunshop owner said, "This is something for you to play with."
If you take one apart, you will have to toss in at least one aftermarket part. Sorry, but that is the way it is.
Have fun!
David
I love dinking with a 1911. I have had a couple of Les Baers that I thought were great for the price and still have several factory guns with varying degrees of modifications.
A few years ago, I bought a base model Colt. When I picked it up, the gunshop owner said, "This is something for you to play with."
If you take one apart, you will have to toss in at least one aftermarket part. Sorry, but that is the way it is.
Have fun!
David
Re: Customizing 1911
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: The Mechanic</div><div class="ubbcode-body">http://smartflix.com/store/category/71/1911
browse and rent to see what you are getting yourself into. </div></div>
Thanks for the link. Lots of watching ahead for me now.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: The Mechanic</div><div class="ubbcode-body">http://smartflix.com/store/category/71/1911
browse and rent to see what you are getting yourself into. </div></div>
Thanks for the link. Lots of watching ahead for me now.
Re: Customizing 1911
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: secondstoryguy</div><div class="ubbcode-body">There's a bit of a learning curve with 1911s </div></div>
This is true. The first 1911 I built was.... functional. I've got enough parts for two more, if I had two more frames, as I tend to pick up bits and pieces as I find good deals. Ditto what secondstoryguy said about hand fitting, too. I've built a bunch of AR15s, and everything pretty much drops in. 1911s aren't that way. If you're serious, you'll want to invest in some tools. Go top tier- anything less will be a disappointment and you'll wind up upgrading. And yes, get Kuhnhausen's book, though Hallock's ".45 Auto Handbook" has helped me a lot.
It's somehow more fun to shoot a match with a pistol you built and ammo you loaded. When everything goes right, anyway!
Assembly guide
Dammit- I can't embed this for some reason.
1911fan
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: secondstoryguy</div><div class="ubbcode-body">There's a bit of a learning curve with 1911s </div></div>
This is true. The first 1911 I built was.... functional. I've got enough parts for two more, if I had two more frames, as I tend to pick up bits and pieces as I find good deals. Ditto what secondstoryguy said about hand fitting, too. I've built a bunch of AR15s, and everything pretty much drops in. 1911s aren't that way. If you're serious, you'll want to invest in some tools. Go top tier- anything less will be a disappointment and you'll wind up upgrading. And yes, get Kuhnhausen's book, though Hallock's ".45 Auto Handbook" has helped me a lot.
It's somehow more fun to shoot a match with a pistol you built and ammo you loaded. When everything goes right, anyway!
Assembly guide
Dammit- I can't embed this for some reason.
1911fan
Re: Customizing 1911
Ditto on the Kuhnhausen books. Also, if I may, start with a good platform. Avoid RIA, Taurus, etc. if you can. Get some blemished frames and slides from Caspian Arms (Foster Industries). Maybe a used Springfield GI that hasn't been hacked.
Buy good tool steel replacement parts as you go. I have had good luck with Berryhill, Wilson, 10-8, Cylinder/Slide etc. Never buy unknown/unnamed brands because I can almost guarantee you will be purchasing them again.
Get good reliable tools as well.
Ditto on the Kuhnhausen books. Also, if I may, start with a good platform. Avoid RIA, Taurus, etc. if you can. Get some blemished frames and slides from Caspian Arms (Foster Industries). Maybe a used Springfield GI that hasn't been hacked.
Buy good tool steel replacement parts as you go. I have had good luck with Berryhill, Wilson, 10-8, Cylinder/Slide etc. Never buy unknown/unnamed brands because I can almost guarantee you will be purchasing them again.
Get good reliable tools as well.
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