M1911 upgrades

[Joey46987]

Can someone point me in the right direction on info on how to replace the trigger and mil-spec hammer to a commander style hammer...im new to the whole customizing thing....any help would be much appreciated...

[stumbler]

The first "part" to get is a book on the 1911.

While the trigger needs to be fitted to the frame, let's start there. Most aftermarket triggers are "over sized" and will need to be filed so the "pad" area can make it through the frame. Filing too much can create looseness. When I started, the "sharpie" marker was my best friend in showing me where the trigger was binding.

To replace the hammer - Some hammers will not work with the standard grip safety. The hammer also works with the sear and the parts should be checked that they have the correct fit. "Drop-in" parts normally means less work to get them to fit, but there is no guarantee that they will fit right from the box.
In my humble opinion, I would have someone knowledgeable on the 1911 working with me on the first upgrade. Or near by to check things out as you go along..

[Joey46987]

can you suggest any books and where i can find them...i live in maine and there is not too much around here...websites would be helpful if you can think of any.....Thanks!

[stumbler]

Check the www.m1911.org (http://www.m1911.org) site. Go to the Tech issues. Another thing to do is a search for Kuhnhausen and his book on the 1911 (www.brownells.com (http://www.brownells.com) has a copy for sale).

[Joey46987]

Thank you very much...i dont know if you ever heard of this company, but the 1911 i have is an American Ordnance...i guess its the same company who makes Thompson Machine guns...i havent heard too much about them, but i hope im not dissapointed...