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- Aug 15, 2005
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For a while I wanted to do a USN themed 1911, seems the USA and USMC get most of the 1911 glory. For this project I decided house the old sailor slogan "Hold Fast" which has multiple meanings for fighting sailors. After I built the Colt 1911 I enlisted the skills of master engraver Phil Bartolotta, a FIGA member. We talk about using an old style font for the lettering which I copied from some old grave stones. Next we needed nautical designs, I think he did great with the compass rose, anchor and ropes and chains. To bring it into the modern 1911 era I needed something from the USN, a recognizable piece. I worked with folks at the USS Missouri Museum in Hawaii to secure original WWII deck teak. Now the "Big Mo" was not just a battleship- It was "THE Battleship". The teak was walked on by many sailors over the years. Grip maker Crystal Glasby in Texas was able to make a few sets for the project. I did this one for fun and will probably bring it to the Dallas Safari Club Show after the first of the year to market. I'm happy with the results and craftsmanship by Phil and Crystal.
