I would like to educate myself on Remington Rand 1911A1's

[Gewehr 43]

Hi, everyone. For many years I've been into collecting WWII German small arms (http://www.gunsofthereich.com). I've devoted many years to studying, researching, and collecting everything from P.08 Lugers to MG34's. Recently, I've begun to take an interest in American small arms as well. I have several M1 Garands, M1 Carbines, and a very nice 1903 (still inbound at the moment), but my only 1911 is a new production Rock Island Armory that I bought for $300 a few years ago (great pistol by the way).

Long story short, I decided today that I would like to buy a Remington Rand 1911 in as close to original configuration as possible. That said, it's time to start the education process as I did before I pulled the trigger on my first G43 or Luger. What do you guys recommend for good references? Books? Websites? Anything... I want to know about RR 1911A1's so that I know a good one when I see one. I imagine the purchase won't be for a few months, or however long it takes me to feel comfortable evaluating a pistol by myself.

At this point, I'm looking for a good representative piece to round out the collection rather than a top-end Singer or something like that. I suppose I would be okay finding a nice Ithaca or Colt as well, but RR's seem most affordable at the moment.

Anyway, I appreciate any advice you folks may have. Thanks!

[Scott Gahimer]

Chuck: Welcome to the site. The place to start learning about U.S. military M1911 and M1911A1 pistols is with Charles W. Clawson's 3rd edition Collector's Guide. While there are other books available, the Clawson works are considered my most collectors to be the best source for reliable information.

I would then recommend to team up with an established, knowledgeable and experienced collector in your general area to learn firsthand what original pistols look like in your hand. Yes, you can learn on your own overf a period of years...but why put yourself through that and made mistakes that can be avoided with proper instruction? As a collector, you know how to network. So develop a working relationship with a collector and allow him to be your mentor. There is no substitution for holding original guns in your hands and having someone explain why they are original.

I'm glad you showed up on this site. The Internet can supply you with some good information...but it can also be a dangerous place for a new guy trying to learn. It takes a while to figure out who knows what. There is possibly more bad information online at different web sites overall than good.

I would recommend using the search feature on this site to view old threads. You can also view the "stickies" at the top of each forum that have been placed there.

The question "What do I need to know to buy a nice, original Remington Rand?" is pretty broad and not easily answered. There are many sub-variations of Remington Rand pistols. There are three different slide logos, two different types of finishes, various shades of the Parkerized finish, different grips and small parts based on serial range, etc...

Equip yourself with the proper sources, take some time to learn, ask questions along the way, and attempt to address your questions about a specific pistol in order to reduce the chances of getting mixed answers that prove to be incorrect.

There is a for sale board in the Flea Market area where established members who have been here at the site for at least 30 days and contributed at least 10 postings may buy and sell. Review all the rules at the site (listed at the top of the page under Forum Rules) and enjoy the site.