Newbie - Just put a Norinco on HOLD for $350

[Ridge Runner]

Came across a Norinco 1911a1 for $350 online.

It is listed at 95% condition. Blued, lanyard ring, 5 inch barrel. Described as a Colt 45 clone. One magazine. White dot sights.

What can I expect from this pistol? Did I get a good deal? Should I buy any spare parts?

How close does it come to the original 1911a1 by Colt?

Spare magazine recomendations? Any information would be appreciated.

[usajeep1]

The cost is fair, I would'nt expect a Norinco in 95% to sell for much more. What is the serial number, how old does it say it is? Look in the barrell for pitting and rust. Replace the guide rod spring immediatly, and field strip it and look for obvious wear and tear. Some Norincos are fantastic shooters, others, well...., you'll have to judge for yourself. Buy Wilson magazines, they are great and make most feed problems in cheaper 1911's disappear. Have fun and give us a range report...jeeep...

[Brian D.]

Parts-wise, the only thing on the Norincos NOT compatible with the Colts is the grip screw bushings, as the Chinese gun uses metric threads of some odd size. (Just the threads that hold the bushings to the frame btw, the inner threads allow normal size grip screws to be used.)

[Jim V]

Hmm, some Norincos don't like Wilson/Rogers magazines; FWIW. They may be or were inexpensive, but I would not call them cheap.

[usajeep1]

I was not calling Norincos cheap by any means, I was just using the terminology to describe a more "factory" produced weapon as opposed to a custom one. I have seen some Norincos that had fabulous fit and finish, as well as being great shooters. I prefer, though, 1911's that are of domestic production. Yes, some of these are "cheap" as well, but thats what you get when purchasing a 1911 for less than 600.00. As for the magazine issue, if the wilson doesnt work, take it back, no problem there. I have a couple of "cheap" 1911's that refuse to cycle correctly with Wilson magazines, but they seem to work flawlessly with Kimber's stainless steel patented mags. The Kimbers sit the cartridge at a more upward angle, thus helping feed problems with non ball ammo. Hope I have clarified myself, and not stuck my foot in my mouth any deeper. If I did, I am sorry for those that I offended. jeep.

[pontcanna]

Not that you can access them (yet) but Marstar in Ontario, Canada has Norinco 1911A-1's for the equivalent of $260 US. If the rumour is true that the US will allow Norinco imports in a few months, you could be in luck.

[Ridge Runner]

It's blueing is close to 98%. Looks like a brand new gun. Rock, solid, well built.

Have not shot it, but I feel I got a good deal.

The only thing I do not like is that the front sight dot reflects off of the slide slightly.

[usajeep1]

Let us know how well it shoots!!