New build Help!!!!

[Fantor]

Hi:
I need some help/advice on my first 1911 build I am planing. I would like to build a complete 1911 lower using an essex frame. Never have done this before I have a few questions. I have searched for weeks all over the net and can not find a GOOD frame parts kit. I have found Sarco and Sportsman kits but all the reviews I have read say they suck and not worth the money. Can anyone recommend a good complete frame kit, or even better does anyone have a complete list of need parts to finish an essex frame they could send me? That way with a list of needed parts I can pick the parts i want in the frame and not have to replace stock parts later...ie hammer, trigger, grip safety, etc.. Also are there any special tools needed to complete this build?? I have built a few AR15's over the past year and have a pretty good set of tools from that project, but is there any 1911 specific tools I would need?? Finally, how hard or what type of tooling is need to fit the slide to the frame??? I have a complete Colt upper that I bought used that I would like to use for this project.

If you like any parts/tool lists can be emailed to me.

Thanks Guys: Fantor

[wichaka]

First, whats your budget look like........and what is the gun being used for?

If its a range gun etc., then you can get away with cheaper stuff, if its a build to used in defense of your life.......then I would highly suggest better parts, which = more money.

[Hawkmoon]

What will this pistol be used for?

I built a pistol using the Sarco/Sportsmans Guide kit. Everything went together and the gun went "Bang" when I took it to the range. I'm sure the individual parts aren't the same quality as the tool steel parts from Wilson Combat or Ed Brown, but they seem to be as good as the MIM parts used by most of the mass manufacturers. I certainly wouldn't say the parts "suck."

You can also get everything you need from Brownells. They sell pin sets, spring sets, and "rebuild" sets that include (I think) pretty much all the springs and pins. Choose your favorite hammer and trigger and go from there.

[Fantor]

This is my first build so I would like to keep the cost low. Range shooting is my first plan then move on from there. I know Brownells, midway, and a few others sell parts one by one but I have no Idea what to order. That is way I am looking for a list of needed parts for the Essex frame so I know what I am ordering. While ordering, then I can make some personal upgrades like triggers and hammers so I don't wind up with spare stock parts later. If anyone has a completed frame parts list please send it my way.

Thanks for your reply so far guys...:-)

[Hawkmoon]

You need to find out if the Essex frame comes with the plunger tube and ejector installed. If so, that's two items you don't have to buy. If not, you need them.

I think there are seven pins in a 1911, and five springs. Rather than try to order them individually, just buy a pin set and a spring set. Then you will need the following:

1 - mainspring housing
1 - mainspring retainer
1 - mainspring cap
1 - magazine catch
1 - magazine catch lock
1 - trigger
1 - hammer
1 - hammer strut
1 - sear
1 - disconnect
1 - grip safety
1 - thumb safety
1 - slide stop
1 - extractor
1 - firing pin (the spring should be in the spring set)
1 - firing pin stop
4 - grip screw bushings
4 - grip screws
1 - pair of grip panels
1 - front sight
1 - rear sight

I think that's about it. If I missed something, I'm sure one of the pros will tell me about it!

[bearboy]

Hawkmoon is right as usual.For a first build sarco will work just fine.

[Hawkmoon]

Of course I forgot something -- unless your slide and upper are complete. You'll need a barrel bushing and a recoil spring plug.

[Fantor]

Cool now were getting down to business. Yes the Essex frame has the Plunger and Ejector installed. I have a complete upper so I don't need a firing pin, spring, retainer, barrel bushing, etc... Building the upper with a used Colt slide and Colt/Wilson Combat parts was easy. Everything just dropped in with no problems. I am more worried about the frame. The list you posted is exactly what I am looking for. Now any idea or advice on tools and fitting???

Thanks Again guys: Fantor

[ArmscorBA]

If you want to go top shelf, EGW, STI and Ed Brown frame parts are your best bet. EGW is a sponsor of this sight.
Ivan

[DanR]

Get the American Gunsmithing Institute video on building the 1911. It is a two video set and the info is very complete. Their armorer's video is also a good place to start. Watch them twice, then watch them again as you "build up" your frame. That way you will not make many mistakes. Also, you need to look at tools needed in the build up. Look at Brownells .45 ACP kits. They do cost, but are well worth the money. Look at what you have, see what you need, and go from their.

[wichaka]

Fantor, I've got a lot of the small parts on the list here.

If you're interested, let me know............I think I can save you a few bucks.

[Fantor]

Wichaka please Email me your list of parts and a price for them. I do not have the frame yet but I will be ordering it within the next week. I am waiting for Essex's reply to my email I sent them a few day back in reguards to the differance between there standard and enhanced frames.

Thank You: Fantor

[wichaka]

When I get home tonight, I will go thru all that I have...........and get a list to you.

[Fantor]

Thanks for all the info and help guys but I just bought a Rock Island 1911 off of Gunbroker dirt cheep instead. I am going to mod this gun and see what I can come up with..:-) Well off to the RIA boards.

Thanks Again: Fantor