1942 Colt question.

[Paulinski]

Hello All

I'm debating another 1911-A1 purchase (yes the bug has struck again)
Its a 1942 Colt. The seller informed me that the gun has some minor pitting in the barrel? What does that mean? Does it mean the barrel is not servicable or the gun will be inaccurate. I don't plan to shoot the gun but would like to run a magazine or two to see how it shoots.

Two pictures below.

http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e193/Dragnaath/IMG_1127copy.jpg
http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e193/Dragnaath/IMG_1126copy.jpg

Anything I should ask the seller? I'm new to collecting 1911's

Thanks in advance.

Paul

[rondawg]

Wow. Where does everybody find these things? I'd LOVE to find one! If I did though, it would probably have a $5000 price tag on it.....

[bgiven]

I would suggest a good book, prior to venturing into the deep end of the USGI 1911 and A1 pool..... Probably a Charles Clawson Third Edition Collectors Guide, or a JC Harrison Field Guide of US Military .45s.

BTW... the pictures show differing finish on the slide and the frame. A quick check of both serial numbers may clear this up post haste.

[pa_guns]

Hi

The pitting issue is probably a result of corrosive ammo. It's not uncommon in GI pistols. A new barrel is less than $50. It should be a swap one for the other deal. You would still have the original for collector value, and the new one for shooting.

Be sure you understand what you are buying. Prices can range from $400 for a "parts box" pistol to ten times that for something unique.

Bob

[Paulinski]

Well I asked the seller few more questions and the slide frame are mismatched. Since the seller was asking fair bit for it I regretfully passed on the opportunity. :(