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View Full Version : upgrading a Mil-Spec RIA .45ACP ... my 1st 1911-A1 project


Globemaster
22nd January 2009, 15:36
well, what I have here is a RIA Mil-Spec style 1911-A1 that I’ve been planning to upgrade, and as of right now, I have a few of the parts on hand; so I feel I'm relatively ready for the modifications, other than acquiring a SS magazine catch, and eventually some type of aftermarket sights? ... and right now I’m leaning toward a set of ‘Series 100’ adjustable Millett® sights.

as you all are quite aware of, AR15 parts are skyrocketing in price(s) amidst the fear of another ‘probable’ AWB; and in order to feed my need for building and assembling something; I decided to venture into the 1911-A1 market; and upgrade a RIA® Mil-Spec .45acp.

and I decided to upgrade a complete USGI style 1911-A1 vs. building from a pretty much non-existent “Kit” market, as they are few and far between these days; and I also found out while searching; that the “Kits” out there are costing more than a complete pistol; and in most cases the frames alone or priced out higher than what I got into the brand new Rock Island Armory® Mil-Spec.

ultimately! … my goal is to end up with a Two-Tone Stainless Steel on Parkerized finish … with a few minor upgrades along the way! and as you can see from the images … I've already installed a used set of Springfield Armory® Double-Diamonds U.S. logo’d grips ... that I got from a friend.





http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h261/globemaster_oly/DSCN8565.jpg


http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h261/globemaster_oly/DSCN8490.jpg

knockonit
22nd January 2009, 23:30
{Please keep posting pics along with list of what you're doing, I'm very interested in methods, and means, I've been thinking the same thing about the kits, and though going this way also.
Ok then, so far looks great.
ric j.

alien
22nd January 2009, 23:48
Looks good! I will try some upgrades to my rock at a later date. Right now I am just flat out enjoying shooting it bone stock.

Alien

ditchbanker342
23rd January 2009, 00:20
I don't even have an RIA and circumstances keep it from being a gun I'd be able to carry, so I likely won't have one in the near future, but this is still a thread I'll be watching.

Globemaster
23rd January 2009, 00:42
{Please keep posting pics along with list of what you're doing, I'm very interested in methods, and means, I've been thinking the same thing about the kits, and though going this way also.
Ok then, so far looks great.
ric j.
yeah, like I said in the ‘original post’ the kits have all but dried up for the most part; and this was just an easier avenue for me to learn the basics on.

note: I’ve yet to take a 1911 down to the bare frame; but I do have a friend that is local to me; that’s going to assist me on the installations of the upgrades.



Looks good! I will try some upgrades to my rock at a later date. Right now I am just flat out enjoying shooting it bone stock.
I’ve not yet shot the RIA, as I just acquired it a couple of months ago; and with the harsh winter weather here in the Pacific NW (current temp of 30.9) it may be a few more months before I’m able to get it on a range.



I don't even have an RIA and circumstances keep it from being a gun I'd be able to carry, so I likely won't have one in the near future, but this is still a thread I'll be watching.
thanks for the positive feedback ;)

jcavuotisr
25th January 2009, 18:50
I have a 1911A1 Tactical also... and would be very interested in suggestions for aftermarket sights... adjustable would be nice but a good set of fixed sights would be functional as well.. Wilson has a pretty good set listed. One of those frugal projects as time and income permit.

I've got the Nightsights Dots on the factory sights right now but would probably go with the standard three dot system. Frugal, you know.

I have the Hogue grips which suit me much better than the standard grips.. I did invest in some Wilson SS magazines and am very happy with that decision, they are great right out of the box and the quality is top notch.

Thanks for the forum and the knowledge base.

Jack
Flatlands of Houston, TX

boehlertaught
26th January 2009, 18:37
Stainless controls on a black slid/frame is cool! Keep up with the pics.
Thanks

stillbuster
26th January 2009, 23:18
What make beavertail are you going with? please advise when finished how much "fitting" was needed.
thanks