Post your Colt 1911 pics!

[Rrotz]

No 1911 forum would be right without a Picture post thread.

So, without further adeiu....

http://www.hunt101.com/img/119311.jpg

http://www.hunt101.com/img/119310.jpg

[Zeke Menuar]

My beat-up old reliable Franken-Colt LW Commander carry gun.

http://img47.photobucket.com/albums/v145/ZekeMenuar1/Commander_9.jpg

ZM

[Prezzz]

New Roll Mark Colt.

http://members.cox.net/rtset/1991-A1.jpg

[showpro]

Colt Series 70 Gold Cup National Match

http://home.comcast.net/~showpropics/gc2.jpg

[Todesengel]

http://www.hunt101.com/img/160234.jpg

[Prezzz]

You made it! Welcome aboard!

[Todesengel]

You made it! Welcome aboard!
hehehe.. thanks!

[Stephen A. Camp]

Hello.

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid114/p2bd6ac1a73bb213a111de788da8c6c12/f8de58da.jpg
A lightly customized Colt National Match....

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid114/p390016a66bbfc7838afad21a47c5d214/f8d6ec7d.jpg
Not a pure Colt, this is a Colt slide fitted to a Caspian frame.

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid27/pa8ad6e111552777289fa87b35b716c98/fd722b5c.jpg
A Series 70 that's had some changes made...

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid49/p107172c30e1599089a3c7516b479b840/fcb616ea.jpg
An old Commander that has been personalized...

Best.

[msmith]

Here is my Novak Series 70 built by Joe Bonar

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid119/p437a8c0b8168437539f82604b81e168d/f8756dce.jpg

[GCT00427]

I have to play too. Mine will be in fine company with the beautiful guns already shown.

Best to all,

Chuck

http://www.hunt101.com/img/162816.jpg
http://www.hunt101.com/img/162817.jpg
http://www.hunt101.com/img/162811.jpg
http://www.hunt101.com/img/162808.jpg

[railman44]

I have a rebuilt that has seen a lot of action...

[crjoe]

Really beautiful guns. Someday I hope to have a Colt. :o

[railman44]

http://home.neb.rr.com/fansrus/1911.jpg

The front sights are kinda tough for these old eyes to pick up. But she shoots nice...

[railman44]

http://home.neb.rr.com/fansrus/1911ww2.jpg

I don't own this gun but thought it was a great pic...

[cheekser]

Seeker: is that what i think it is?!?!

[cheekser]

that sure is what i was thinking of!!! you lucky devil, you.

[railman44]

That's a keeper for sure. Wow. You lucky dog!

[dsk]

railman44, that's a nice-looking old Colt you have as well (the first pic on top of the calendar). Does it have any arsenal rebuild stamps?

[railman44]

Rock Island.

[SingleAction]

:) http://www.hunt101.com/img/112011.jpg

[GCT00427]

SingleAction,

Great first choice. :D

Chuck

[Coltautos]

http://home.neb.rr.com/fansrus/1911ww2.jpg

I don't own this gun but thought it was a great pic...


I own this Colt. Other photos of it can be seen at http://www.coltautos.com

Regards,

Sam Lisker
Coltautos.com

[dsk]

That definitely is a nice pic. Railman, it's always a good idea to give the owner of the pics credit when you post. Asking first is even better yet. Long ago when I first got my website started I borrowed a couple pics thinking it was okay (being a nooby I thought all things Internet were public domain), and found out the hard way even nice people can get grumpy when they find their stuff being used without their knowledge. :(

[JimC]

1990 vintage Colt Delta Elite, with a few changes. ;)

http://img74.photobucket.com/albums/v226/KobraCarry/Delta/121_2188_5x3.jpg

[GCT00427]

JimC,

That is a real beauty. I have never shot a Delta, but have admired them from afar. I love the Delta Gold Cups. I remember drooling over them when they were in the catalog back a few years ago. Yours is a very nice piece.

Chuck

[JimC]

JimC,

That is a real beauty. I have never shot a Delta, but have admired them from afar. I love the Delta Gold Cups. I remember drooling over them when they were in the catalog back a few years ago. Yours is a very nice piece.

Chuck

Chuck,

Thanks for the kind words.

[railman44]

Sorry Sam.

It was a great pic. Maybe I got it on Google. I'll watch my six the next time...

[M1991A1]

Here's my brother's Colt Gunsite Pistol with a few mods.

http://www.hunt101.com/img/170729.jpg

[Rob96]

That is a nice Gunsite model. WHat grips are those?

[crjoe]

WW I 1911 repro

http://www.gunsnet.net/album/data//500/22741ww_I-med.JPG

[M1991A1]

Rob96, their Simonich Gunner grips. I don't know the web add. right now but it will come up in a search. They run $50.

[Rob96]

Thanks. I'll do a google search for the we address.

[1911Fool]

http://www.hunt101.com/img/171238.jpg


Here goes my 1st attempt at posting a picture.
My colts: Hard Chromed small rollmark 70 GM, Pre-80 Combat Commander, Officers XS

[Slabsides Bob]

This is my third .45 pistol and my second 1911. I had a Euro P-220, a Brazilian/Caspian kit gun and this. This is my favorite.
Internals and Novaks done by Earl House of Tulsa, OK.
http://home.earthlink.net/~ipn/ci/images/1911.jpg

[Rrotz]

WW I 1911 repro

http://www.gunsnet.net/album/data//500/22741ww_I-med.JPG

CRJOE,
can you take a close up of both sides of the WW1 Repro? I'm interested in teh Carbonia Blue finish. TIA

[crjoe]

Rrotz
I won't be able to get to my digital camera till this weekend. Daughter borrowed it. But as soon as I can I'll take some and post it for you.

[1911Fool]

Here are some nice pictures of a WWI repro from Collectors Arms.

http://www.collectorsfirearms.com/c1503.htm

[GCT00427]

Cameron,

Magnificient. Gun and group. :eek:

Chuck

[Titus]

Clockwise from the top... ORM stainless 1991 with Marvel Unit 1, NRM stainless Commander with Marvel Unit 2, new Series 70 (71B), enhanced OACP, and because it's a Colt family picture, a Pocket Nine.

http://img19.imageshack.us/img19/5590/Colts.jpg

[Mannlicher]

I have no idea how to post a picture here. I have a new ditigal camera, and I have some pictures on the hard disk now, but I don't know how to get them into here.

[winter_war]

The only two Colt .45's I have at the moment.

1927 Hartford

http://members.cox.net/mike.tx/pics/1927Colt.jpg

Series '70 Gold Cup

http://members.cox.net/mike.tx/pics/GoldCup.jpg

Mike in Texas

[winter_war]

yet another try to post my Combat Commander, Series 70

http://www.hunt101.com/showphoto.php?photo=179419

I am missing some step here, but the link works. Sorry for the confusion

You just need to put the link to the actual photo in and it will work. The link is: http://www.hunt101.com/img/179419.JPG


Like this.

http://www.hunt101.com/img/179419.JPG

Mike in Texas

[OD*]

http://www.gunpix.com/gallery/Handguns/Semi-Autos/CCW45.jpg
http://www.gunpix.com/gallery/Handguns/Semi-Autos/Yost%20sights%20side.jpg
http://www.gunpix.com/gallery/Handguns/Semi-Autos/Colt91A1.jpg
http://www.gunpix.com/gallery/Handguns/Semi-Autos/1913GI.jpg
http://www.gunpix.com/gallery/Handguns/Semi-Autos/Colt-R&R%201940.jpg

[Chubbo]

Hi,

I am pretty much computer illiterate. Could someone give me a blow by blow way to post pictures on this site? I am fairly new to this site, and apologze for asking for something that probably been covered many times.
Thanks,
Chubbo

[mcmoyer]

http://img50.photobucket.com/albums/v152/mcmoyer/1911.jpg

:D

[1911slabsides]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v351/1911slabsides/Picture_012.jpg

[doc45]

My apologies if you've seen this already but I figured it's about time it showed up on the proper forum. This is my daily carry. Robar added the Novak ghost night sights, Roguard on the slide, NP3 on the frame (aluminum) and internals. 2 years now & no wear. approx 3000 rounds. (Fed. 230 gr. HS and Am. Eagle 230 gr. fmj). Wolff 20lb. recoil spring-extra power, w/matching firing pin spring. Wilson's beavertail, Ed Brown checkered main spring housing. Now wears Hogue wood coco bolo grips. Yep, skateboard tape on the front strap! I hope this works, I'm still figuing this pic posting thing out.


http://www.hunt101.com/img/211874.jpg

[Chubbo]

Hi, Stephen:
The trigger on your hybred is one that I have been trying to identify. I used to know, but have forgot. That trigger is the best shaped, and the best looking one I have seen. Does it function as well as it looks? Can you tell me the mfgr. and whear I can find one?
Chubbo

[butchblosc]

....to test a new picture-hosting site.
'86 MK IV Series 80

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v435/butchblosc/ser80col.jpg

[mvician]

http://www.hunt101.com/img/135364.jpg (http://www.hunt101.com/?p=135364&c=548&z=1)

Series 80 Lightweight Commander Stainless/Teflon
Colt rosewood grips
Colt "downswept" beavertail
S&A checkered MSH
Videkki trigger
McCormick ambi
McCormick "drop in" rear sight
Wilson mags

Mike

[mvician]

customized Colt Combat Target

http://www.hunt101.com/img/119110.jpg (http://www.hunt101.com/?p=119110&c=548&z=1)

Mike

[Wes Janson]

http://www.maj.com/gallery/WesJanson/Colt1911/rightrightred.jpg

[lil toad]

All great pistols each and everyone of them. The oppurtunity to post my Colt's hasn't came yet, but when it does I'll post them for you guys to have a look.

[Commander45]

http://img41.exs.cx/img41/6896/commander05800x600.jpg

[gfen]

One gun, two pictures.

http://infotainment.org/ego/colt1.jpg

...and...

http://infotainment.org/ego/colt2b.jpg

Taken with a Burke and James 8x10 Commercial View on a 4x5 reducing back onto Tri-X with an EI of 160, lit with natural sunlight. The first picture is using an Orbit Symmar S-II 300/5.6 at f64, the second is cropped down and used a Wollensack Extreme WA 159/12.5 at f45. For both I used only moderate front tilt. Who wants developing info? ;) Yet, for all of that crap, its glaringly obvious I never do still life or studio work: I forgot to dust off the model. Whoops.

You wanna know about the what, the gun? Oh, OK! Its my new-to-me Colt M1991A1, not sure of the year. The previous owner took off the ugly plastic grips and replaced them with not-much-nicer wood (walnut?) pieces in their place. The rest of the pistol, near as I can tell, is stock.

Yep. Before I decided it was really fun to shoot bullets, I spent alot of time shooting film.

[Wes Janson]

Still looks pretty though ;) gfen, you can probably teach the rest of them photography far, far, far better than I can. We had a discussion on it a few weeks ago ;) From a more artistic point of view, the reflection off the side of the mag (bottom pic) tends to unbalance the piece. The top seems very moody, almost..noir-ish. I like 'em!

[gfen]

Thanks Wes.

[Bruce Foreman]

Two tone Colt's Lightweight Commander. Black anodized enhanced frame with Stainless Combat Commander slide on it.

Shoots like a dream.

http://img14.exs.cx/img14/1786/CLW-2Tone.jpg

Bruce Foreman

(Serial number in photo is not actual number on the firearm.)

[Paul B]

http://home.comcast.net/~pburnster/Images/projectile/TwoColts.gif

This is a quick and dirty pic... M1991 Commander and a Mrk IV Series 70 Government Model with Remington 230 grain Golden Sabre's.

I just ordered another M1991 Commander. The cosmetics are, I'm told, better than the matte black. We'll see.

The custom grips are from Scott Sensing (http://www.truckwithaheart.com/grips.htm). His work is beautiful and he's a pleasure to do business with... Yes, I know ... that was a shameless plug...

Be Well..

pb

[gpo1956]

Titus,
Can you give me a rundown on the Marvel Unit 2? How do you like it compared to the Unit 1? Is it reliable? How does the accuracy compare to the Unit 1? I have a Unit 1 and I'm contemplating either buying a Unit 2 or trading for one.

[rhtwist]

This is a trial and my currently troublesome Nickeled Gold Cup.
http://www.hunt101.com/img/217726.jpg (http://www.hunt101.com/?p=217726&c=549&z=1)
rhtwist
This ones better
http://www.hunt101.com/img/217731.JPG (http://www.hunt101.com/?p=217731&c=549&z=1)

[Prezzz]

1952 Colt 1911 "Super 38 Automatic". 3rd Model.

http://members.cox.net/rtset/38%20super.jpg

http://members.cox.net/rtset/.38super%20reflect.JPG

[rhtwist]

That is a good looking firearm! Great condition and photo. Good luck with it.
rhtwist

[wichaka]

Prezzz, that gun is way toooooooo good lookin' to be posting anywhere!

Don't be surprised if John deletes your post for health reasons! :D

[Matt Meeks]

Colt 1911 Series 70 completely stock (for now anyway)
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v400/skeem/PB130008.jpg

[Cameron]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/cameronpersonal/Colt/Colts07110804.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/cameronpersonal/Colt/ColtsRightNOSNsmall.jpg

[seabeesweetie]

Hello All,

I am new to the forum, and wanted to introduce myself. My name is Stephanie, and I live in Virginia Beach. I started going to the range 2-4 times a week, and had the opportunity to shoot a lot of different guns. I started with a 38 special of my own, and I have now purchased my first 1911. I am still waiting to receive it in the mail through my FFL, but I am sure once I get it I will love it! When I went to Florida for Biketober Fest, I had a chance to shoot my father-in-laws Lightweight Commander, and loved it! So, I bought this one for my birthday.

Here is my new Series 70 Lightweight Commander. It has been refinished by Virgil Tripp.

http://pic4.picturetrail.com/VOL760/2848111/5734983/73571318.jpg

Have a great day!

[noliecop]

GOLD CUP National Match in Ultimate Bright Stainless.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v75/noliecop/goldcup.jpg

[S.B]

Heinie comp gun on series 70 Government Model
http://img28.exs.cx/img28/9824/Heinie1.jpghttp://img28.exs.cx/img28/9824/heinie1.jpg

[wetidlerjr]

Colt Commander in SS w/black VZ Micarta grips and Chip McCormick Low Mount Rear Sight. :D

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v114/wetidlerjr/WEAPONS112904035.jpg

[Chubbo]

Hello, to all of you that have posted your pictures on this thread. I have been on this thread since it started months ago, and I still have not been able to post pictures.I have been working on being able to post some of my pictures, ever since. I spent a couple of hours yesterday, with absolutely no success. I have tried several image hosting sights. That is about as far as I have been able to go, with this posting pictures. I used the jpeg mode, butThey tell me that my pictures are still to large to download. I have tried to figure out how to reduce their size, but I can not. I am sure that you have, by now discovered that I am pretty much computer illiterate, I don't know how to speek computerese. I have had several people send helpfull information on this subject, but I don't seem to be able to transalate the computer jargon. I think that if I could master the picture size reduction, the rest would fall in place. Anyone want to take the time to set me straight on this?
Thanks,
Chubbo

[wetidlerjr]

Hello, to all of you that have posted your pictures on this thread. I have been on this thread since it started months ago, and I still have not been able to post pictures.I have been working on being able to post some of my pictures, ever since. I spent a couple of hours yesterday, with absolutely no success. I have tried several image hosting sights. That is about as far as I have been able to go, with this posting pictures. I used the jpeg mode, butThey tell me that my pictures are still to large to download. I have tried to figure out how to reduce their size, but I can not. I am sure that you have, by now discovered that I am pretty much computer illiterate, I don't know how to speek computerese. I have had several people send helpfull information on this subject, but I don't seem to be able to transalate the computer jargon. I think that if I could master the picture size reduction, the rest would fall in place. Anyone want to take the time to set me straight on this?
Thanks,
Chubbo

I use Photobucket which automatically downsizes any pics I upload to their site. It works fine on all the sites I have displayed my Colt Commander pic although many sites now automatically downsize pics when you post them.
:D

[Chubbo]

Hi, Wetidlerjr:

Thanks for the info. Photobucket was the last site that I tried to use, and they said that the picture could not be downloaded because it used to much
space or to many bits of whatever, or something to that effect.
I will try to use their service again, and see what happens.
Chubbo

[SMMAssociates]

I've got a nice Commander that looks exactly like Rrotz's on the very first post of this thread. Including the beavertail, although mine's a "drop in" - can't tell what Rrotz's is....

My other 1911 is a Para Tac-Four. That's my avatar. It's got Pearce grips and an arched mainspring housing, but is otherwise stock. It's green, too.... :cool:

Neither hold a candle to some of the beauties shown off here, but they're mine, I tell you, mine! :D

(Now, I gotta save up to be able to find something else in the safe....)

(If you really want to see a large picture of the Para, have a look at the "Para Stripdown" thread on the Para section of this board, towards the end.)

Regards,

[RealSeabee]

http://members.cox.net/daverobb6/gunpic.htm
http://members.cox.net/daverobb6/gunpic.htm

Click on the above....mainly because I haven't figured out how to insert but I can put them on the WEB

[Kramer Krazy]

Instead of getting a picture(s) hosted, here's a link to my firearms page on my website:

http://members.aol.com/TBoling125/firearms.html

[OD*]

Very enjoyable web site, Terry.

[Kramer Krazy]

Very enjoyable web site, Terry.

Thanks. The homepage is here:

http://members.aol.com/TBoling125/

It used to be dedicated to Kramer guitars, but I've just revamped the whole site (still needing some work) to include other things, such as my motorcycles, motorcycle trips, the guns, and my family. I just have too many expensive hobbies. :D

[OD*]

Some more

1913
http://gunpix.com/gallery%2FHandguns%2FSemi%2DAutos%2FL1913%2Ejpg

1949
http://gunpix.com/gallery%2FHandguns%2FSemi%2DAutos%2F1949L%2Ejpg

1950
http://gunpix.com/gallery%2FHandguns%2FSemi%2DAutos%2F1950b%2Ejpg

[gfen]

Hi, Wetidlerjr:

Thanks for the info. Photobucket was the last site that I tried to use, and they said that the picture could not be downloaded because it used to much
space or to many bits of whatever, or something to that effect.
I will try to use their service again, and see what happens.
Chubbo

You must be trying to post massive pictures, but you don't realize it.

If you're taking pictures with a digital camera, change the resolution and the quality. You're not printing them out, so they don't need to be at the largest sizes and best quality. Try putting the size down a notch or two, take them at 640x480 instead of 2048x1024 or whatever its set to now.

Make sure you put it back when you're done, though, else you'll have an unpleasant surprise when you go to print out your vacation snaps. :)

If you're scanning your pctures, lower the resolution at which you're scanning. Set it to something like 100dpi instead of 600dpi or whatever its at. This will significantly shrink the file down.

You can do the same thing in your photo editor, if you're looking for something to use I suggest either Paint Shop Pro (for you Windows types) or Graphic Converter (which is also probably for Vinders, but its what I use on my Mac) or PhotoShop (you may have gotten a copy of PhotoShop SE with your camera or scanner).

In the program, just resize the image to something reasonably sized, again like 640x480 or change the DPI to something lower. When you goto save the file as a jpeg, usually it tells you how big the file is, and you want to try and get your file size down to like 100k or less: Posting 1meg+ file sizes is a good way to have those of us who are too cheap for anything but dial up to skip your pictures :)

[RealSeabee]

You must be trying to post massive pictures, but you don't realize it.

If you're taking pictures with a digital camera, change the resolution and the quality. You're not printing them out, so they don't need to be at the largest sizes and best quality. Try putting the size down a notch or two, take them at 640x480 instead of 2048x1024 or whatever its set to now.

Make sure you put it back when you're done, though, else you'll have an unpleasant surprise when you go to print out your vacation snaps. :)

If you're scanning your pctures, lower the resolution at which you're scanning. Set it to something like 100dpi instead of 600dpi or whatever its at. This will significantly shrink the file down.

You can do the same thing in your photo editor, if you're looking for something to use I suggest either Paint Shop Pro (for you Windows types) or Graphic Converter (which is also probably for Vinders, but its what I use on my Mac) or PhotoShop (you may have gotten a copy of PhotoShop SE with your camera or scanner).

In the program, just resize the image to something reasonably sized, again like 640x480 or change the DPI to something lower. When you goto save the file as a jpeg, usually it tells you how big the file is, and you want to try and get your file size down to like 100k or less: Posting 1meg+ file sizes is a good way to have those of us who are too cheap for anything but dial up to skip your pictures :)
I use a Picture program called COMPUPIC. I resize, crop and adjust lighting before I send or save any pics. The Gun Pics are all under 600 x and under
90 KB in file size. Not big, just not a user friendly set up for me....so I just put them on the web and post the LINK, that way I use virtually NO BAND...

Enjoy and Thanks for the input

[HOGCAT]

Heres my older 70 series. Well used! Sure wish I had a blued slide. Too shiny sometimes.

[edit by John: Gary, the site where your picture was hosted does not allow us to see it. Instead, they show us an advertisement, so I had to edit your post]

GARY

[Navy87Guy]

Here's my Colt -- an M1911. Serial number put the date of manufacture at 1912. My great uncle carried her through WWII as a chief in the Navy. She doesn't shoot too badly for an "old lady"!

http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2004-11/889657/M1911-small.jpg

[stormdragon]

http://users.adelphia.net/~stormdragon/images/parrosgs_1102632318_10mm1.jpg


http://users.adelphia.net/~stormdragon/images/parrosgs_1102632319_10mm2.jpg

[lincoln]

how do i post my pix?

[stormdragon]

You have to have a WEB site on which to park the pictures. Usually your internet provider allows you space on their WEB servers so you can have a personal WEB site it you like. You can load the pictures to that site using a free FTP program like ACEFTP from Tucows.com.

Once the pics are there, you reply to the thread, choose the image icon at the top of the post (to the right of the U) and enter the URL address for the site where the pictures are loaded.

Dennis

[Prezzz]

I just trade a Garand for this 1980 Gold Cup National Match in Satin Electroless Nickel. I've never seen another Gold Cup like it.

http://members.cox.net/rtset/GC1.jpg

http://members.cox.net/rtset/GC2.jpg

[TriumphGT6]

http://www.mv.com/ipusers/last/1917.jpg

[Prezzz]

Nice.....but I had to scroll 3 screens wide to see it! :p

[Wes Janson]

It may be a Colt, but it's not designed by Browning, so it doesn't count ;)

[gc70]

Eye-candy photo of my 1991.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v408/gc70/Colt-F.jpg

[White]

Is that a 1991? Looks like a New Production of the 70 Series pistols. Either way, still nice. Love it..........

[Cameron]

White - Is that a 1991? Looks like a New Production of the 70 Series pistols. Either way, still nice. Love it..........

It is definitely a Series 80 1991.

Cameron

[Prezzz]

I posted this earlier in the thread but something happened to the file. So here it is again.

Colt NRM 1991.

http://members.cox.net/rtset/NRM1991.jpg

[Chubbo]

Hi,

Well, here goes another try at posting pictures. If I had to pick one of my colts, and could only keep one, this probably would be it. It has fossilized Mastodon ivory grips, made by a man in Punta Gorda Florida, and allen head SS. grip screws, and a spare magazine.

http://www.hunt101.com/img/244671.jpg (http://www.hunt101.com/?p=244671&c=549&z=1) :confused:

[shariteau]

This is my Colt Model of 1911 U.S. Army pistol

Serial # 509158 (1917-1919 depending on the source)
No modifications
Both original bakelite grips
United States Property stamped.

http://www.geocities.com/mariahfan_1/DSCF0001.JPG



http://www.geocities.com/mariahfan_1/DSCF0004.JPG



http://www.geocities.com/mariahfan_1/DSCF0006.JPG



http://www.geocities.com/mariahfan_1/DSCF0010.JPG

[Sabre]

shariteau, I have a question about those grips:

You say they are original Bakelite grips. You mean the original ones that initially came with the pistol from Colt? Reason I ask is, well, I may be way off on this, but your pistol appears to be a 1911 (not A1). I understood that the bakelite grips didn't appear until the 1911-A1 came along (or sometime after) and that all 1911 pistols came with checkered walnut grips.

[SingleAction]

http://www.hunt101.com/img/248061.jpg

[gunsnrovers]

Here's a stainless Series 80 Enhanced Commander I bought in 1992. Slicked up by Bain & Davis. I had the Straight 8's and new paint by Virgil Tripp in June of last year. Grips are from Hakan Pek.

http://www.suckasstheatre.com/gunpics/hakan19112.jpg

[Prezzz]

shariteau, I have a question about those grips:

You say they are original Bakelite grips. You mean the original ones that initially came with the pistol from Colt? Reason I ask is, well, I may be way off on this, but your pistol appears to be a 1911 (not A1). I understood that the bakelite grips didn't appear until the 1911-A1 came along (or sometime after) and that all 1911 pistols came with checkered walnut grips.

Correct. Bakelite are not original grips for this pistol. And since you brought it up, not the original finish or trigger either.

[Jon]

Well, I'm new to the forum, but I figured I'd post the picture of my baby on here. She's a working gun, not real pretty, but shoots pretty doggone well..... Mostly stock, aftermarket Hogue grips, drop-in Chip McCormick grip safety and hammer, and got to replace the front sight with a Hi-Viz after my front sight flew off in the middle of a range session.

-Jon

http://home.comcast.net/~jmaia5/firearms/1991a1.jpg

[stormdragon]

How do you like those grips and what mags are you using? I see the bumper pad and they look good on the gun.

Nothing wrong with a well used effective tool. Actually a good looking gun. What is the model?

stormdragon

[Jon]

I love the grip. Makes the gun fit my hand like a glove. Also the rubber helps keep my cover garment down a little (every little bit helps). The mag in there right now is the factory mag with an aftermarket bumper on there. Very nice for tapping mags in firmly. I have two other mags, Chip McCormick Shooting Star 7rd and 8rd. They both have a hard plastic bumper that's about twice the height of the rubber one you see in there, but it provides something for me to grab if I ever get a sticky mag. Works really well for rapid reloads....

The only complaint (other than the ejecting front sight) I have with this gun is that when I first got it, I had to polish the feed ramp to get it to reliably digest the flying ashtrays I use for personal defense (Speer Gold Dot 200g +p). Dremel with a felt pad and some polishing compound. Now it eats just about anything I feed it with nary a hiccup.

And it's a 1991-A1 series 80

[stormdragon]

Where did you get the low profile bumpers?

stormdragon

[C&R Gunworks]

Hi guys, new to the forum here. Here's my daily carry rig - Series 70 Combat Commander and Dillon SOB holster.


http://www.thegunvault.net/images/Commander-Dillon-CYA.jpg

[Jon]

Where did you get the low profile bumpers?

stormdragon

I wish I could remember. I think it was at a local gun show. But I honestly wouldn't be able to tell you for certain.....

[C&R Gunworks]

I wish I could remember. I think it was at a local gun show. But I honestly wouldn't be able to tell you for certain.....
You might find what you're looking for from Brownell's. Part# 692-700-000.

http://www.brownells.com/aspx/NS/store/ProductDetail.aspx?p=9768&title=MAGAZINE+BUMPER+KIT

[dropd1us]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v702/dropd1us/coltcombatcommander8.jpg millett sights, micormic hammer and sear, wilson trigger, titanium firing pin, harts mercury compensator spring guide, wilson speedchute, wilson extended saftey, wilson extended slide stop, wilson beavertail, stainless hex grip screws, extra set of ackers ebony grips and three wilson mags not shown in pic, extended mag release, polished feed ramp

[mitchjoe]

Hello Everyone!

Below is my just purchased NIB '71 9mm Combat Commander. I'm pretty dang pumped! :D Now if the wife would only speak to me...

I plan to make a few non-permanent mods I usually do to my 1911's and hit the range.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v733/mitchjoe/cmdr.jpg

[Married2NAVCOP]

Gold Cup by Novak's
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/married2navcop/MyGoldCup.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/married2navcop/MyGoldCupII.jpg

CCO by Cylinder & Slide
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/married2navcop/DSC00177.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/married2navcop/DSC00176.jpg

[V1958]

I don't mean to be a pain but I could use a little help posting pics. I'm very new at this and have a nice pic of my great old Colt.

[mitchjoe]

V1958:

To post the pic you only need a couple thing's:

-A location to "host" the picture.

-The appropriate image tag that points to the URL (location) of the pic.

I use Photobucket since it's free. For example, once I've uploaded a pic, I paste the image URL in with the IMG tag and that's it. Photobucket also provides the complete image tag (look for the 3rd line IMG) under your picture(s):

IMG]http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v733/mitchjoe/before.jpg[/IMG]

On the above, I left off the left outer bracket --> [ to show what the image tag should look like; if I add the bracket, the pic is displayed:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v733/mitchjoe/before.jpg

Hope this helps!
mitchjoe

[Matt the Knife]

Added griptape and Wilson Drop-in beavertail
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v517/qballhk40/DSC01337.jpg

[Cameron]

http://home.comcast.net/%7Ecameron.personal/Colt_Govt_Left_Slim_Grips2.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/cameronpersonal/Colt/ColtGovtLeftSlimGrips.jpg

http://home.comcast.net/%7Ecameron.personal/Colt_Govt_Right.jpg

http://home.comcast.net/%7Ecameron.personal/Colt_Comm_Slim_Grips.jpg

[Cameron]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/cameronpersonal/Colt/GovComL.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v393/cameronpersonal/Colt/Colts06110804.jpg

[MPinkston]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v498/MPinkston/MKIVS80_Combat_Commander_45ACP.jpg

[NRMCOLT]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v623/nrmcolt/MyColt6.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v623/nrmcolt/MyColt5.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v623/nrmcolt/MyColt2.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v623/nrmcolt/MyColt4.jpg

[Darimian]

:D http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y3/Darimian/ColtGCTUSLegendII.jpg
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y3/Darimian/ColtGCTUSLegend.jpg

[John]

Where did you get the low profile bumpers?

stormdragon
Late reply, but if I am not mistaken, they came from Pachmayr. I do not know if they are still in their catalog, but I still have at least 2-3 of them.

Rgds

[JMJ45]

Hello, I am new, this is my Colt, sorry the HK is in with it.


http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y12/JMJ45/100_1225.jpg

[pete1953]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v485/pete1953/ColtCombatCommanderleft1-25-05.jpg

Colt Combat Commander with Novak rear black and tritium front sights, Vedici trigger and Art Leckie action and reliability package, Ed Brown memory beaver tail grip safety, stipple front strap, and cocobolo grips. Wilson 7 round magazines.

[mongo523]

JMJ45, is that rust I see on your HK? :eek:

[JMJ45]

No, that pistol is just as well taken care of as the Colt, I bought that gun new in April, right now the pic isn't loading for me but I am sure that it is oil, or a finger smudge or something. Thanks for asking though.

Ahhh, I see what you are looking at, is it under the 45Auto markings.....those are from the factory, they must have been stamped after the bluing. Some wierd symbols I haven't researched it at all, but thanks for asking.

Jake

[Big Sky Rancher]

Colt Custom Combat 10
(http://forum.m1911.org/showthread.php?t=3039)


http://home.comcast.net/~1911brass/COLT_10MM_sm.jpg (http://forum.m1911.org/showthread.php?t=3039)

[Duca SWE]

Hi all!
This is my first post here on 1911 forum and this is my first 1911, its a Gold Cup Trophy in .45 ACP and i just got it.

http://bildbanken.nordiq.net/pic/GoldcupTrophy1.jpg
http://bildbanken.nordiq.net/pic/GoldcupTrophy2.jpg

It features, 30 lpi frontstrap, Barsto match barrel, Wilson bussning, Bomar sight, Trigger job, Commander hammer, LesBaer beavertail, Alexander & Smith magwell, Kim Ahrends grips. The only thing that i really want to ad to it is an extended magrealease button. Whitch i havent desided on yet.
This is the crown in my small collection of handguns. And i will use it to shoot PPC 1500 with it.
Hope you like it, Cheers Duca SWE

[uspopo]

Here's my NRM 1991A1...
http://www.fatalityincorporated.com/swong/1911coltnrma.jpg

[V1958]

Here is my 1917, government model 1911 serial 144xxx and my 1950 Woodsman Scout. It is a link
http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/v1958/album?.dir=90c5

[JACKBURTON1968]

Papa and baby (a MARK IV Series 80 and a Defender both stainless in 45 acp)....and it's just the beginning.

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y46/JACKBURTON1968/STUFF/1911s.jpg

[ottobon100]

Purchased March 4th. Combat Commander XSE. I have since added a Wilson Grip Safety and have a Smith & Alexander magwell coming.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v606/ottobon100/Colt001a.jpg

[Scooter .45]

Here's a couple pics of my all-original Colt Govt. Model .45 (1920 commercial production):
http://www.truckwithaheart.com/left.JPG
http://www.truckwithaheart.com/Coltleftsmall.JPG

[stoneypete]

USGI 1944 REMINGTON RAND/ITHACA RIA rebuild
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a153/stoneypete/1911A1/Parkright.jpg

COLT MKIV SERIES 70
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a153/stoneypete/1911A1/MVC-016S.jpg

COLT 1991A1 COMPACT
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a153/stoneypete/1911A1/MVC-018S.jpg

[John]

Have I told you how much I hate this thread????

[stormdragon]

Have I told you how much I hate this thread????


What's you beef with this thread??

stormdragon

[John]

What's you beef with this thread??

stormdragon
Ever heard of extreme jealousy? Like green with envy??

[stormdragon]

Ever heard of extreme jealousy? Like green with envy??

I have a bad case of Colt envy too. Did Freud talk about that??

stormdragon

[SMMAssociates]

Stormdragon:

The real problem is that John's got a huge bank balance and a government that only allows you to own a couple of guns....

(Well, the last half of the sentence is correct. :D )

(Or at least accurate. :mad: )

Regards,

[trying hard]

Here's my satin nickel plated Series 70 9MM
Factory lightened slide
Beavertail is drop-in only. No cutting done on the frame
http://home.earthlink.net/~0imajinazn0/comm%20barrell.jpg
http://home.earthlink.net/~0imajinazn0/comm2.JPG
http://home.earthlink.net/~0imajinazn0/comm1.JPG

[Bacon]

I've only added the arched mainspring housing.

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y40/Bacon51/Colt%20XSE/ColtXSE8.jpg

PS- John, although California isn't as bad as where you live, I know how you feel. There's plenty of guns I can't have either. A Series 70 for starters.

[John]

Yes, but for you, it's easy to cross over to Nevada. Imagine what it takes for me to come over there?

Not only I have to sustain about 17 hours of flight (no direct flights from here to CA), but I also have to get a Green Card (if I were of Spanish-origin, and sneaking in from the south border it won't be necessary), and then I'll have to stay in USA for -I do not know how many- years, before I am allowed to get the 1911s of my dreams.

Move over to Nevada, much better climate, but no beaches unfortunatelly.

LoL

[XavierBreath]

http://www.bayourovers.com/PolishedColtCommander.jpg

NRM Commander

[XavierBreath]

http://www.bayourovers.com/GoldCupNationalMatch.jpg
Gold Cup National Match

[XavierBreath]

http://www.bayourovers.com/ColtOfficersACP.jpg
ORM Officer's ACP

[XavierBreath]

http://www.bayourovers.com/FinishedSistema.jpg
Does a Sistema count as a Colt?

[Chubbo]

Hi, Xavier,

Those are fine looking pistols.
What kind of triggers are on the ORM Officier's mod., and the NRM Commander? I saw those triggers selling at a gun show, several years ago in Columbus Ohio, and hav never seen any of them since.

Chubbo

[Huevos]

I may have posted this on here somewhere before but here goes again. My 70 Series repro customized by Dane Burns... :)

http://www.fototime.com/9CE6055527FF609/standard.jpg

http://www.fototime.com/5B985E9DF3BE227/standard.jpg

[mvm]

http://home.comcast.net/~mvm6756/wsb/media/209564/2_SS_Colts-640x.jpg
2 of my shooters

[XavierBreath]

What kind of triggers are on the ORM Officier's mod., and the NRM Commander?

They have Dlask triggers. The Dlask is fully adjustable, for both overtravel and take-up. It has a magnesium shoe and a titanium stirrup. Here's a link (http://www.brownells.com/aspx/NS/store/ProductDetail.aspx?p=5767&title=SEMI-AUTO+ULTRA-LIGHT+TRIGGERS&s=13756#13756) for the Dlask trigger at Brownells.

[pete1953]

MVM, XavierBreath, Huevos, stoneypete, Bacon, trying hard, Scooter .45, Brass Balls, Duca, Ottobon 100, deltaopwong - I love looking at those 1911s!

[supercomp9]

http://www.hunt101.com/img/268226.jpg (http://www.hunt101.com/?p=268226&c=500&z=1)
Colt Series 70 Nickel 45 , VZ Grips, s&a magwell, dlask trigger & Sti hammer/sear.

http://www.hunt101.com/img/268229.jpg (http://www.hunt101.com/?p=268229&c=500&z=1)
Colt Commander 45 Narvidex conture micarta grips, Wilson grip saftey/speedshoot magwell, mccormick hammer/sear/saftey, Sti trigger.

http://www.hunt101.com/img/268224.jpg (http://www.hunt101.com/?p=268224&c=500&z=1)
Colt series 70 9mm , VZ grips, s&a magwell, Sti hammer/sear/ trigger, soon ed brown safteys..

http://www.hunt101.com/img/268234.jpg (http://www.hunt101.com/?p=268234&c=500&z=1)
Colt Delta 10mm , Gunner Grips, s&a magwell, Sti hammer/sear/trigger, mccormick thumb saftey,

Thanks
SuperComp9 aka Jerry K

[Hot-1991]

This is my sweet heart. :o
Action smooth :p
Bead blast finish :rolleyes:
Millet sights - orange front white outline rear :eek:
Wilson - mag, hammer and grip safety :)
Will shoot cloverleafs at 25 yards with cast bullets. :cool:


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v723/flintlock54/1991.jpg

[Roneye]

Custom Combat Commander

http://bianco.cc/commander01.jpg

http://bianco.cc/commander02.jpg

[Phillybest]

Here's my Colt Custom Shop Special Combat Government

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y69/Phillybest/Colt2.jpg

[Chubbo]

Hi, All.
I am going to attempt to post one of my favorite Colts. It is a .38 super. It is a custom shop unit, called a Super Comander.


http://www.hunt101.com/img/252273-big.jpg (http://www.hunt101.com/?p=252273&c=549&z=1)[

[WBB]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v649/WBB1911/olympus038.jpghttp://img.photobucket.com/albums/v649/WBB1911/olympus043.jpg

[Roneye]

Delta Elite

http://bianco.cc/deltaelite.jpg

[Black_Talon]

My humble Series 80.
http://www.black-talon.org/RKBA/guns/SDM_80_L_0800.jpg

[nj03gti]

My 1991A1 Officer's Model
http://www.hunt101.com/img/269207.jpg

The Combat Elite that I just got
http://www.hunt101.com/img/269203.jpg

I also have a .32 Walther ppk/s stainless that I am considering trading for something else. It is a very small gun, and likes to chew up my hand when I shoot it.

[stormdragon]

Roneye, I assume the Delta has been refinished? What is the finish and who did it for you? Where did you get the emblem grips?

Black_Talon, What are the grips on the Model 80? Which is not so humble IMHO.

stormdragon

[SMMAssociates]

NJ03GTI:

If it's an "original" PPK/S, Pachmayr's "Signature" grips may be a worthwhile expense. I've got one in .380 that, while not exactly fun, is tolerable with those grips. They do add a quarter-inch or so to the width if you started with pre-1968 grips, but the width is about the same as the later ones.

(Post 1968, the PPK/S grips have a sort of thumb "shelf" that adds a bit of width. This allowed Interarms to get some points to allow them to continue to import the gun. The PPK didn't make the cut.)

The new S&W-branded PPK/S (hm.... I don't think they're making a .32) has a slightly different grip frame, and those Pachmayr grips won't fit. I've not looked lately to see if they've gotten around to producing one that will. There are a couple of simple "Glock Sock" style grip "wraps" around that can be used on the newer guns.

I've sold three guns in the last 37 years. The only one I regretted was my first PPK/S. I ended up buying another one. The .380's a little underpowered, and there are 9mm choices in that size range now, but I bought the thing before 1975....

[nj03gti]

SMMAssociates:
My PPKS is an Interarms/US Built pistol that I purchased in 2000. It has the standard Walther grips on it. The issue I always run into is the meat of my hand(between hte thumb abd index finger) gets cut by the slide when firing. I just have to be more careful of my grip when I am shooting it. I originally bought it for my ex-wife to use at the range. She refused to go, so I shoot it. I have been considering the H&K P2000 in .40S&W as a replacement. I have only sold 2 pistols in my life (Glock 23 and a S&W 9mm), and the one I really regretted was the Glock. Trading the PPKS for the P2000 would be done to offset the cost of the H&K.

*sits on the fence and mulls the options in front of him*

[SMMAssociates]

NJ03GTI:

Some of those US-Made Interarms guns are a little iffy, but the problem you're having is well known. That's really what S&W fixed, bumping out the rear of the frame rather like a 1911. (Cylinder & Slide, for a small fortune, will add a real beavertail and a bunch of other stuff. I think the final tab runs $1500+, which seems insane, but....)

IAC, it probably makes sense to swap the thing for something you really want. I've not had that problem, which is something of a surprise given fairly large hands, but you don't want to do that in a fight. My problem, pre-Pachmayr, was that the grip frame itself dug into the thumb-forefinger web, making more than a few rounds very painful, but doing little real damage. We won't talk about the time a 20guage tore up my thumb....

BTW, if the S&W 9mm you sold was a Model 39, we're not speaking :D . I've had one since they were relatively new, and would ask to be buried with it if I didn't think my daughter would dig me up for it.... That was purchased about 1975 too. (I got married in 1975. So much for my gun budget. The wife has no idea where the Para came from....) (I'm not sure either....)

IAC, a set of Pachmayr's might just tame that beast if you decide to keep it.

[nj03gti]

SMMAssociates:
I'll try the Pachmayr route first. If I still cut myself up, then I will go the trade in route. I no longer have a wife to gripe aabout purchases, so I think I am safe. I know there are not many fans of plastic guns here, but I have been drooling over the H&K P2000.

No, the S&W I traded was not a Model 39. The person you should never speak to if they traded one, would be my Dad. He gets minor redemption with his P-14 and Ultra Carry II, but not much. :D

Where is the best (read cheapest) place online to pick up a set of grips?

Thanks for your help!

Sean

[Black_Talon]

Black_Talon, What are the grips on the Model 80?

They're just a humble set of the Simonich Gunner Grips (http://www.simonichknives.com/gunner.htm). They are, by far, the best grips I've ever used on any handgun. All of my 1911's wear them. They are very grippy, without sharp checkering that wears your hands (and garments), and they're virtually indestructable, as they're made out of "G-10", that epoxy composite stuff that knife handles are made from.

[Hypersonic]

Colt XSE Commander (nothing modified)
http://www.fototime.com/CDF29DD8377983D/standard.jpg

Delta Elite Custom
http://www.fototime.com/E629C7901187573/standard.jpg

Delta Elite Blued (nothing modified)
http://www.fototime.com/C56ED4E8D94FDF1/standard.jpg

[SMMAssociates]

I'll try the Pachmayr route first. If I still cut myself up, then I will go the trade in route. I no longer have a wife to gripe aabout purchases, so I think I am safe. I know there are not many fans of plastic guns here, but I have been drooling over the H&K P2000.Sean:

Might be worth a try, but the real issue with the slide getting to you is the way you place the thing in your hand. The grips keep the grip frame from tearing up your hand.

Don't even mention plastic guns here :D . Although my somewhat heretical view is that if you like 'em, and they shoot well for you, why not. Just buy a 1911 to placate the gods and....

(Want my wife? She just headed out to get a pizza - OK - but left me with our six-month-old Jack Russell Terrier. I think "Hyperactive" was invented to describe him. Or "Tasmanian Devil". My daughter, who I'm writing out of my will, dropped him on us in early January.)

No, the S&W I traded was not a Model 39. The person you should never speak to if they traded one, would be my Dad. He gets minor redemption with his P-14 and Ultra Carry II, but not much. :D I was just going to tell El Commandante to lock you out :D . Guess I don't have to. But your dad had best buy another Para....

Where is the best (read cheapest) place online to pick up a set of grips?Pachmayr's site is probably the best - it's a little hard to navigate, but you're looking for "Signature" grips for the PPK/S. I forget what I paid for the set I have, but it wasn't much.

Regards,

[mitchjoe]

I have to agree w/ John...I hate this thread...I usually favor blued 1911's but Roneye's Commander caused so much drool, I just tossed the dog's bowl under my chair & let the glass-eyed stare continue! :D

That's a mighty tasteful custom job...DANG IT! :mad:

mitchjoe

[S.B]

Stock series 70 except for some bobbing of the hammer spur with carved ivory grips.
http://www.hunt101.com/img/266881.jpg
http://www.hunt101.com/img/266885.jpg
http://www.hunt101.com/img/255486.jpg

[intercede007]

Great Grandfathers pistol (still trying to determing it's history, date and how accurate my Grandmother and Fathers contention that it is his World War I service weapon). Hasn't seen daylight in 50 years or more. It hasn't been fired in much longer. I recieved it on Sunday when my Grandmother and I found it while I was in the process of moving her into the home she just bought. She had lived in the same house up until that point for about 43 years. She was given the gun when her father passed away and placed it in the bottom of her dresser where it stayed until yesterday.

http://members.cox.net/intercede007/1911.jpg
http://members.cox.net/intercede007/1911-2.jpg

It's in pretty rough shape. It's been stored in an oil drenched cloth for the better part of the 20th century and as you can see from the pictures, it's still wet.

It's got a bit of surface rust that I'm beginning to do research on how to remove without damaging the pistol. The finish is pretty well weathered, but other than the rust my Grandmother says that it looks just like it did the last time she saw it, so I'm assuming it was pretty beat up after it's service in the military. My Great Grandfather, my family has said, disliked guns very much after he returned home from the war, and only kept his as a tangible link to the past. I trust them when they say it hasn't been fired since he got home from the war.

Thanks for a very imformative site!

[Huevos]

Great Grandfathers pistol (still trying to determing it's history, date and how accurate my Grandmother and Fathers contention that it is his World War I service weapon). Hasn't seen daylight in 50 years or more. It hasn't been fired in much longer. I recieved it on Sunday when my Grandmother and I found it while I was in the process of moving her into the home she just bought. She had lived in the same house up until that point for about 43 years. She was given the gun when her father passed away and placed it in the bottom of her dresser where it stayed until yesterday.

It's in pretty rough shape. It's been stored in an oil drenched cloth for the better part of the 20th century and as you can see from the pictures, it's still wet.

It's got a bit of surface rust that I'm beginning to do research on how to remove without damaging the pistol. The finish is pretty well weathered, but other than the rust my Grandmother says that it looks just like it did the last time she saw it, so I'm assuming it was pretty beat up after it's service in the military. My Great Grandfather, my family has said, disliked guns very much after he returned home from the war, and only kept his as a tangible link to the past. I trust them when they say it hasn't been fired since he got home from the war.

Thanks for a very imformative site! You might want to start a new thread on this gun if you're wanting to find out exactly what it is and what best to do with/to it. Plenty of knowledgable people on here. I don't know a lot about old Colts but this one looks pretty interesting. If it were me, I'd leave it as is, except what was nessesary to prevent any further deterioration.

[S.B]

intercede007, you are a very fortunate person to have this gun and it has family history. Congratulations, I'm sure you'll treasure this gun forever.

[intercede007]

Thanks for the words of encouragement fellas!

Yeah, I have absolutely no intention of doing anything to the pistol other than taking care of the corrision on the end of the slide and any other dangerous bits I find. To me it's 100% more interesting in it's tattered state then if I would have if I found it in prestine order. Monetary value is irrelavent, it's the historical and family importance that have me captivated.

It's back in the terry cloath rag and bag I found it in until I'm a little more educated on how to take care of it and put it into a condition where it can be safely displayed without it getting worse. The wood grip is actually in pretty good shape. It's a little soggy from the oil, but I'm thinking that once it gets dried out and cleaned, it will look pretty good.

Again, thanks for a great website! I have a thread in the US Government Issue Pistols forum, but I will definatly ask more pertinent questions here about it's operation and care in the very near future.

[MrBusiness]

My 1923 Colt 1911, with Colt .380 hammerless (date undetermined ATM)
Edit: Ah, I think the Colt .380 was stamped in 1920.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v219/maxmadhax/colt45_colt380.jpg

[stormdragon]

What a fantastic heirloom! You are a very lucky man!

You can have it refinished. A quality refinisher can remove the rust with no damage to the gun at all and they could reblue it for you in the original Colt blued finish.

You might share the pics with Brad Cummings of Cummings Custom Refinishing. He does absolutel fantastic work and people on the SIGForum swear by him.

I've had a couple of guns done by him and he is a real perfectionist.

You're lucky your grandfather had the forsight to store it in a oily rag all these years or it would be a real rust bucket. As it is, it would easily be brough back to it's pristine state.

I would also suggest having a gun smith go over it. Brad is also a quality gun smith and might be able to do that for you before you even consider shooting it. His refinishing work is very reasonable. You could probably have it done for under $150.00

Dennis

[stormdragon]

You might want to start a new thread on this gun if you're wanting to find out exactly what it is and what best to do with/to it. Plenty of knowledgable people on here. I don't know a lot about old Colts but this one looks pretty interesting. If it were me, I'd leave it as is, except what was nessesary to prevent any further deterioration.

Colt can, for about $250 give you some history based on the serial number and certify the age and petigree of the gun. You get a certificate and all. Given the family significance of the gun, you might want to do that just to have it.

Personally, I would also encourage you to have it appraised even though the monetary value is of no concern to you and even though you are not planning on selling it. It would be good to have it insured. You can have that done through the NRA. I expect the value is in the thousands (3K to 5K range if it is indeed a WWII stock weapon and is in servicable condition). It would be a true collectors piece.

Stormdragon

[stormdragon]

Great Grandfathers pistol (still trying to determing it's history, date and how accurate my Grandmother and Fathers contention that it is his World War I service weapon). Hasn't seen daylight in 50 years or more. It hasn't been fired in much longer. I recieved it on Sunday when my Grandmother and I found it while I was in the process of moving her into the home she just bought. She had lived in the same house up until that point for about 43 years. She was given the gun when her father passed away and placed it in the bottom of her dresser where it stayed until yesterday.

It's in pretty rough shape. It's been stored in an oil drenched cloth for the better part of the 20th century and as you can see from the pictures, it's still wet.

It's got a bit of surface rust that I'm beginning to do research on how to remove without damaging the pistol. The finish is pretty well weathered, but other than the rust my Grandmother says that it looks just like it did the last time she saw it, so I'm assuming it was pretty beat up after it's service in the military. My Great Grandfather, my family has said, disliked guns very much after he returned home from the war, and only kept his as a tangible link to the past. I trust them when they say it hasn't been fired since he got home from the war.

Thanks for a very imformative site!

What does the writing on the sides of the gun say, just out of curiousity.

[SMMAssociates]

Beautiful gun....

Even if it's a little "timeworn"....

There's a site here (can't think of where) that lists serial numbers and dates for Government Issue 1911's. "Approximate", I'd guess, but it might be sufficient. It certainly looks like an original 1911 to me, but I'm not an expert. 'Bout all I can tell is whether they've got arched mainspring housings :) or not.

(Original 1911's also lack some relief around the trigger area on the frame. Adding the arched housing makes for a longer reach to the trigger, and at the time, fingers were shorter.... I read someplace that the 1911 was designed to fit the average man's hand in 1911. Today they seem to be a better fit for the average woman as men's hands have generally increased in size. My 19-year-old daughter can easily shoot my 70's Commander even with slightly oversized Pachmayr grips. She can hold my double-stack Para but doesn't like it - it's too big for her hands.)

I'm jealous - I'd like another 1911 and that one's got some history.

Rather than the terrycloth, though, you might want to find some vapor paper (rust inhibiting) and a somewhat better storage method. Clean the gun and lube it for shooting. That may inhibit further deterioration.

(Lube it for shooting 'cause you may get the itch, but mostly because you'll be handling it a bit, I imagine, and that'll keep your hands cleaner without endangering the gun's finish in the short term. You can dunk it in grease later if you decide to put it in a bank vault....)

Regards,

[intercede007]

What does the writing on the sides of the gun say, just out of curiousity.

Thanks for the responses guys!!

On it's left side..
Patented APR 20 1892 SEPT 9 1902 COLT'S PT F.A. MFG CO
DEC 19 1905 FEB 14 1911 AUG 19 1913 HARTFORD, CT U.S.A.
United States Property

On it's right side..
MODEL OF 1911 US ARMY
No. 244254

Johnny Peppers replied to my thread in the US Government Issue Pistols forum about it's birth. He said "Colt Model of 1911 No.244254 was shipped from Colt on February 26, 1918 to Springfield Armory." Hearing that literally sent chills up my spine! I was having a little difficulty tracking down anything solid using the gun's model number, using the Springfield Research Service and the M1911.org's database because they both seemed to indicate to me that the gun could either have been produced in 1918 or a couple years after World War I. But thankfully an expert was able to give me a definite date of manufacture!

[intercede007]

Beautiful gun....

Even if it's a little "timeworn"....

Rather than the terrycloth, though, you might want to find some vapor paper (rust inhibiting) and a somewhat better storage method. Clean the gun and lube it for shooting. That may inhibit further deterioration.

(Lube it for shooting 'cause you may get the itch, but mostly because you'll be handling it a bit, I imagine, and that'll keep your hands cleaner without endangering the gun's finish in the short term. You can dunk it in grease later if you decide to put it in a bank vault....)

Regards,

Thanks!

And thank you again for the care advice! That's exactly what I'm looking for! I'd hate to have to restore the pistol, but I'll do it without hesitation if the corrosion gets to the point of putting the guns longevity in danger. I'm going to track down that "vapor paper" and clean the gun. I'm actually going to go by my local gunshop on the way home and see about a cleaning kit (I've never owned a weapon before, so I have nothing at all with which to care for the piece). I want to make sure it's still around in 87 more years! :)

[SMMAssociates]

Thanks! And thank you again for the care advice! That's exactly what I'm looking for! I'd hate to have to restore the pistol, but I'll do it without hesitation if the corrosion gets to the point of putting the guns longevity in danger. I'm going to track down that "vapor paper" and clean the gun. I'm actually going to go by my local gunshop on the way home and see about a cleaning kit (I've never owned a weapon before, so I have nothing at all with which to care for the piece). I want to make sure it's still around in 87 more years! :) My mom's about three years older than your new gun.... Can't get her to wear the vapor paper, though :D .

If you've not heard of that stuff, it's what guns used to arrive wrapped in. Paper with some stuff in it that's supposed to inhibit rust. If your local gun shop doesn't have any, that's fine - just try to find some cloth (a pistol rug might be OK) that's synthetic and not likely to hold moisture.

You can get an inexpensive pistol cleaning kit for about $20. Hoppe's is good. However, if your gun shop has a gunsmith it might pay to have him do a first cleaning. There are some internal things that probably should be thorougly cleaned and re-lubricated and I don't think you're ready to strip the gun down that far yet. "Normal" cleaning is pretty simple by comparison. Just tell him whether you want to shoot it or store it.

One thing to worry about here - while this gun is probably safe to fire, a good gunsmith should tell you that too, but it may have been fired with corrosive materials (primers and powder turned into non-corrosive very slowly in the last century). I had an Argentine Colt that I bought for a friend that essentially had no barrel at all.... The rest of the gun was pretty clean other than some holster wear on the grips. We had to replace that barrel ($100-ish today) for safety. (I just saw one of those the other day - same problem!) There are other frame crack issues - some models' cutouts for the slide stop are conducive to cracking. Other parts can fail, too, but most don't have a lot to do with safety in terms of the thing blowing up in your hand. Check the safety mechanisms, too. Never trust them, but it does help to know if they work at all. There should be a "checking out a 1911" page here someplace that covers those issues.

Nothing wrong with a 1911 for about any purpose - wheel chock, house gun, carry gun, paperweight, wall piece, whatever, but having one to actually shoot may not be the best choice for a first gun. OTOH, it's not rocket science, and you don't need to sleep at a Holiday Inn Express. Basic "strip to clean" is pretty simple, and if you don't know what you're doing, almost every instruction set you'll run into has a "most people stop here" line that you needn't cross. Once you get the hang of one of these, there's not a lot of mystery in other handguns, and while the .45 has a bit of a reputation, it's not too difficult to shoot for the novice. My wife and daughter can handle them fine. (My daughter's 19, and likes to come out to the range with me when she's in town. Not a serious shooter, but she's got her own goggles and muffs. The wife's really not interested, but can do it if she wants to.)

Since yours is (likely) WWI "issue" (hard to say if it ever saw combat with that date), it may have some extra value, but if not, it'd probably make an excellent "shooter" with some lightweight restoration effort. Sounds like a winner....

Regards,

[intercede007]

Thanks SMMAssociates!

I'm going to run by the gun shop on my way home from work and I'll definatly look for the products you just described.

The pistol, as long as I have it, will never be fired. I know it's sacriledge, but it's what I promised my grandmother and it's the spirit in which my great grandfather kept it. My grandmother (his daughter) swears up and down that it is the very pistol he took with him to France during his service in the Army. I'm not throwing that out there as an absolute fact, just as her version of it's history. But like you said, it's timeframe would put it inline with a WWI issued piece, and that's more than enough to arrouse my curiosity.

I ran the gun through the "Function Testing a 1911" page on the main site and it did everything fine. Since we are on the subject...

As I have said, and readily admit, I have no experience with guns. I did the function tests and it did everything there well, but somethings I noticed that were not mentioned. With the clip out of the weapon, the slide stop does not engage onto the slide. I have to put it there with my fingers. With the clip in, however, it grabs the slide when I pull it all the way back. Is that normal? The trigger is also pretty sloppy, and by that I mean it jiggles a bit side to side. It pulls very smoothly however. Again, should the trigger be tighter or is that characteristic?

By chance, I met a local gentleman with a 1918 1911 on these forums yesterday, and I'm going to see what local gunsmiths he would trust and take you up on your suggestion. It won't ever be fired, but I see absolutely no reason why I shouldn't put it into a condition where it could be, if for no other reason that giving me the piece of mind that it is in a healthy state of being. The caveat being, I want no parts replaced, or at the very least, those parts that are should be returned to me. Broke parts would make me very upset. So either I'm walking a fine line, or my inexperience with weapons and their care has me paranoid ;)

Anyway, feel free to enlighten me to anything you may feel pertinent. I'm all ears and extremely interested. I've never been this entralled with a piece of history before, and I don't think I've ever held, let alone owned, something as old and precious as this gun. Suffice it to say, the historian in me (I am a history major at UWF) is stirring.

Thanks much!
Jon

[MrBusiness]

Intercede, the slide lock does not function without a clip. If you look closely, the way the clip is designed, when inserted into the weapon (empty of course) the slide lock has a small 'lever' on the inside of the pistol that gets pushed up by the lower part of the spring retainer on the clip. Albiet I dunno what its called exactly, but this is used to lock the weapon when the last round is fired and the slide recoils. There is practically no use in having the slide "auto-lock" when there is no clip in the gun. I say this because the only time to have the slide open without a clip is when you're cleaning it, IMO anyway.

The trigger on my M1911 (year 1923) has a tiny bit of side to side movement in it, but the trigger pull is smooth and all the bells and whistles engage properly. If the pistol passed the function test then I would say theres probably nothing wrong with the trigger, unless it moves waaay too much.

Enjoy your piece of history :)

Edit: Correction, the slide lock functions without a clip, but it must be set manually.

[intercede007]

Awesome!

I figure it was something like that but hey, might as well ask you guys for free advice before I get bent-over by a gunsmith just yet ;)

Again..thanks for all the help and encouragement fellas. Hopefully soon I can put the gun pack into a healthy, presentable state and display it for all my current and future family to see :)

Thanks again!!
Jon

[boldkharma]

(But not for long)!!!!

http://www.picturetrail.com/gallery/view?p=999&gid=4874063&uid=2463402