1911A1 Builds

OK, I'll start a thread on building a 1911A1.

IF there's enough interest, we might be able to get together, and I can show you how.

It won't take many tools, and little mechanical ability. If you can disassemble a normal semi-auto pistol, you can build a 1911A1.

You should first buy a frame and a slide. I suggest Essex for at least the frame. Tey're reasonably priced, and make a nice finished product.

http://www.essexarms.com/

I also suggest keeping it MILSPEC, except for a few parts that will still let you use MILSPEC replacements. And aftermarket sights are OK.

STICKED!

Jeez, I couldn't begin to answer that one, Darius.

Fitting the frame and slide is a long slow process. But, you can easily stretch it out over the long term, and work at it slowly. About 20 to 40 hours just to do that, IF you want a good job.

Then, you take it to a reputable gunsmith, and have install the grip screw "nuts" and plunger tube. And the front sight, also. That depends on the smith, but it's fairly easy, just requires special tools.

After that, final assembly is oh, a couple to three hours, not counting any parts that are "non MILSPEC" and require special fitting.

Now you see WHY to buy the frame and slide first. You can start fitting them while you're saving for the rest.

Now, don't anybody get too mad, but my 1911A1 cost me about $200 to do, and it was that HIGH due to me buying some newer parts than I had. Of course, the frame and slide were GIVEN to me by my father, along with most of the parts to build the gun, though some were very worn. I also broke the Eliason sight (they're weak) I scrounged and replaced it with a Caspian for about $65 (included in the $200).

Oh, I should add that someone that has a fair amount of time to work on it, can fit the thing faster than those hours. I think I had about 30 in mine, but I took my time to get a TIGHT gun.

It also took me about 100 to 200 rounds to get it loose enogh to function well after I was done. Like I said TIGHT. One of the Bailiff's from the Springfield Mass Court can hit a torso sized jug with it over half the time, at 100 yards no less. I can't shoot that good, not even close, but the gun is up to it.

It's nothing fancy, but very functional. 2 Digit serial number, as well. One they made their first year, in the late 70's, IIRC, while they were still in Island Pond.