U.S.G.I. markings???

[cliff731]

These pics are from a "U.S.G.I." pistol that is being offered for sale... no, it's not mine and I don't intend to purchase it... but I'm rather curious and confused by the markings and rollstamps on this 1911. This is not intended to represent any questioning of the authenticity of the seller's offering, but simply my asking an opinion of some of our more knowledgable forum members... here goes-

http://nas4.atlanta.gbhinc.com/GB/064907000/64907459/pix1279610158.jpg

http://nas4.atlanta.gbhinc.com/GB/064907000/64907459/pix1279610815.jpg

[OD*]

OK, that's a real Springfield Armory (not today's S.A.) slide, those are Colt's (the first maker of the pistol) patent dates for the 1911. It's also an Augusta Arsenal rework.

[cliff731]

OK, that's real Springfield Armory (not today's S.A.) slide, those are Colt's (the first maker of the pistol) patent dates for the 1911. It's also an Augusta Arsenal rework.

Thanks, OD*... yes, I was a bit muddled by the Springfield Armory rollstamps combined with Colt's patent dates. You've nicely clarifiied that for me and I must confess my ignorance of the markings found on U.S.G.I. M1911 pistols. As such I probably should refrain from any serious shopping for one without doing my homework first!

[bgiven]

.....and the Springfield slide is on a 1918 Colt frame...... ;)

Bob

[cliff731]

That particular pistol has a set of adjustable rear sights and some rather unflattering "cross hatching" on the MSH along with "stippling" on the front strap. It is listed as a "NM" pistol and has a ramped front sight. While she might be a tackdriver, I would rather have Colt's current WWI M1911 reproduction.

[exitwounds]

That particular pistol has a set of adjustable rear sights and some rather unflattering "cross hatching" on the MSH along with "stippling" on the front strap. It is listed as a "NM" pistol and has a ramped front sight. While she might be a tackdriver, I would rather have Colt's current WWI M1911 reproduction.

It is not a USGI NM pistol built during the '50s and '60s, and is a $400 to $600 shooter at best.

[OD*]

Thanks, OD*... yes, I was a bit muddled by the Springfield Armory rollstamps combined with Colt's patent dates. You've nicely clarifiied that for me and I must confess my ignorance of the markings found on U.S.G.I. M1911 pistols. As such I probably should refrain from any serious shopping for one without doing my homework first!
You're welcome Cliff.

Don't worry about not knowing everything about them, I learn something about them everyday it seems and I don't know anybody that does know everything about them (I know a few who think they do ;)).

[cliff731]

It is not a USGI NM pistol built during the '50s and '60s, and is a $400 to $600 shooter at best.

The BIN asking price for this one was like $1300- starting at over half that amount- :eek:

That's considerably more than your your estimate, Exitwounds! ;)

I agree with your assessment... this one is likely way overpriced... and looks like a worn ole' shooter to me. As good a justification one like myself needs to abstain from these "original M1911's" and go for a WWI M1911 reproduction pistol.

IMHO, a decade or two from now, there will be a cult like following for Colt's WWII and WWI pistols, which by then will have a whispered and fabled mystique.

OD*, this is why I would not ever go "shopping" for a WWI M1911 without doing some consultation and study beforehand!!!

Unsuspecting and less than knowledgable folks like me would be well advised to stay away from online auction deals- :nono:

It's much better to pay more and purchase such a pistol from a very well-known dealer who has a significant investment in a sterling reputation.

[exitwounds]

$1300 would be realistic in many areas for the pistol prior to it's modifications, but the accurizing you describe and from what can be seen in the photos looks mediocre at best. Legitimate USGI NM pistols can still be found at those prices.