Want to improve my 1911, need suggestions

[GSonnen]

I'm new to the forums, so howdy to everybody.

I have a reliable, well used stock Colt 1991a1 which I have owned for about 14 years. I've got the itch to make a few improvements on it & I'd like some advice. I use it for personal defense and casual target shooting. This is the list of things I'd like to do:

1. New carry sights with white dots.
2. New lighter trigger (3.5#).
3. Bobbed hammer.
4. Better barrel.
5. a rail to attach a surefire light. (I've seen one on Cylinder & Slide's web site)
6. Camo finish (I'm planning on using Bearcoat for that after all the gunsmithing is done.)

I've got price lists from Clark Custom & Wilson Combat. I'm planning on sending the pistol in to let them install the goodies. Their gunsmithing prices are fairly competitive. I'd like experienced opinions on who I should go with and what parts/brands are the best to buy.

Thanks in advance,

Greg
Rockwall, Texas

[kotonk]

I've got price lists from Clark Custom & Wilson Combat.
i sent my SA into Clark for some work...accuracy job, reliability job, new sights, trigger job, front strap checkering and S&A magwell install.

it took them 8 months but it was well worth it...

[stumbler]

First, welcome to the site.

You cannot go wrong with the smiths you have selected. It sounds like you've done your homework well. I would get all work to be done listed on a paper (contract if you will). and have their prices listed in the contract as well. It will help them and yourself should any questions come up later. With the waiting time needed, some people have forgotten what they asked for or they will ask the smith to do other work in addition to the original agreement.

[valor1]

When I modify a 1911 or any of my handguns, these are my priorities (in exact order):
1. Reliability
2. Accuracy
3. Finish or aesthetic appeal

I usually go for good extractors, ejectors, firing pin, recoil springs, sights and quality magazines.

Then I change the barrel.
Then a great finish goes with the gun.

[Gammon]

I have replaced many of the barrels in my 1911s, but I must admit that most replacements were unnnecessary. I would do some serious testing before I spent my hard earned money on another barrel. As far as finish is concerned, I am sold on Metal Life, or industrial hard chrome. This is the most wear resistant plating I have ever used.