Colt 1911

[Wes Janson]

I wrote up a two and a half page long essay on myself, the world, the 1911, and what I should do. I even considered, towards the end, copying and pasting it in case it failed to post correctly. But my computer seemed to be running fine, and so I went ahead and posted. For whatever idiotic reason the forums decided that even though it had told me I had registered successfully, I was not actually logged in. Furthermore, it decided to REFRESH instead of returning back to the Post New Thread. It is a testament to my improving patience with the stupidities internet that I'm even typing now, after losing the better part of an hour's work. On to the simplified point, now:

I am 17, and would like to own my first firearm for a variety of reasons (Yes, I know what the laws are). I would like a 1911, preferably one as close as possible to the originals as they came out of the factory. The WWI Replica seems like my best bet. I've found one, a single one on hold for me for the next week or so, at $930 (give or take $25). Is this a good price? Could I find a better price at a gun show? Is the WWI Replica a good choice for me? Is the Replica a quality gun, and is it reasonably accurate out of box (what sort of accuracy can I expect)? Is it reliable?

Thank you.

[1911slabsides]

Wes,

You are probably going to hear all sorts of advise on your choice, Personally I think it's a neat one. Granted the WW 1 repro is expensive but it is certainly a beautiful gun. Lots' of folks consider that particular 1911 as a collector or safe queen, My thinking is that it's made to shoot, I just picked up an old 1911 made back in 1917, it's old and it works just fine, If you get that model of 1911 there is no reason why yours won't still be plugging along after nearly 100 years too. Granted there are less expensive guns out there but for you to pick this one out of all the choices must mean that you know that already, I say if you like it and plan on taking care of it, Jump on it, If you do it right you could still have it with you when you are an old old man. Let us know, good luck.

[1911slabsides]

Possibly all the advise will be coming from me if SOMEBODY ELSE DOESN'T POST soon. I got to thinking about the first gun I paid for myself, I think I was about 14. I got a Smith & Wesson Model 28 HIGHWAY PATROLMAN. I paid $123.88 for it at a sporting goods shop named H Cookes in Santa Fe, New Mexico. I worked during the summer for .80 cents an hour. I guess there are some things that you never forget. I got a lee reloader, the kind you use a rubber mallet and pound the rounds out, no presses for me then. I think I shot that gun 1,500,000 times. I sold it when I was in my early 20's because in my 20's I knew everything :rolleyes: Lord I had fun with that gun, Now some 30 years later you have reminded me of some good times, I appreciate that, I hope you get that 1911,

BTW the price you mentioned is pretty good, I think the chances of it being reliable run an easy 99.9% in your favor.

[guncop]

Sounds like you made a good choice on a fine shooter. Just take care of it and you should have lots of fun with it. Heck, if someone asks you about it, you can give them a history lesson. A quick warning though. Be cautious of gun show guns. Remember our 1911's are the most heavily customized weapons out there with lots and lots of aftermarket stuff. Some good and some, well junk. I am a law enforcement armorer and I can't tell you the number of guys who came to me with a gun show "deal" that they can't get to run. You'd be suprised at the things I find. Have fun.

[Wes Janson]

Thank you very much. I wasn't able to find much suggesting any problems with the gun from Google searching, and so far I've yet to hear an informed opinion against getting a Colt.

What precisely is at fault with the junk guns? I recall a guide on the forums here to checking a gun before buying, but I wondered if you're speaking of issues that would only come up during actual shooting? I lack the knowledge to identify an aftermarket part(s) in a gun, so my only real guide would be to check the functionality and appearance beforehand. All of this adds up to more good reason for skipping the gun show and ordering online.

Just to be on the safe side, does anyone here know anything about Sniper Country PX? Googling for information reveals a fair number of people who recommend it, but in case anyone here knew more, I figured it wouldn't hurt to ask. Appearances can always be decieving, and I have no intentions of entering into a thousand-dollar transaction over the internet with someone whom I think is trustworthy.

Thanks!

[wichaka]

Getting a Colt for your first 1911 is great. The recent Colts coming out are some of the best ones in years. Great fit & finish and mostly solid steel parts, which is a good.

I like guncop am a L.E. armorer as well. I build 1911's for L.E. personel and too have seen some pretty weird stuff coming from gun shows. I'm working on one now that is a pain. Alot of out of spec parts, stuff bent, cracked.......etc.

I take it that you're buying a new one? If so, looking at a gun show should be okay, as long as you go thru a dealer with a good reputation.

If you're not 100% set on the model yet, look around and see what's out there.

Colts are reasonably accurate & reliable, so have no worries there.

[1911slabsides]

Like wichaka and GunCop said, there is some strange stuff that pops up, they ought to know. I too am assuming that you are getting a new WW I repro, I am pretty much convinced that you are looking at a 99.9% chance of getting a winner with one of those. I really believe and I'm sure the other will agree that the problem with some used guns is someone "fixed" them when they weren't broken, The 1911 design is very forgiving, if a person takes care of them they will last a long time. But it is real easy to goof up the works if someone starts improving or fixing a 1911. I think that sometimes folks get the idea that all sorts of gizmos will improve the gun, the simple fact is that most Colt 1911's will out shoot most shooters, Many parts will drop in as advertised but that doesn't mean that they work correctly. I stear away from 1911's that have aftermarket drop in parts on them because there is one way to install parts correctly and a couple hundred ways to install them wrong. Its just safer to go with a new one when you are starting out, I've been fooling with 1911's for a long time and there are things that I just won't fool with on the gun, I'm not going to get one that someone else has fooled with. It's more about safety than anything, second is about having a gun that can protect you (which is actually running hand in hand with safety) the last thing is that you don't want to buy someone elses problems, You want to enjoy your 1911, so I say if you want that WW I repro, look around find a good one, and even if it costs a few extra bucks it's worth it in the short and long run.

I'm anxious to hear what you come up with.

[Wes Janson]

Much of what you have to say reminds me in part of my experience with paintball. There are a million and one different things people can, have, and will do to their markers. And a great deal of them are unnecessary, detrimental, or useless. Luckily in that realm, it's quite difficult to damage the basic functionality of most markers, although the higher-end guns can be highly complex in their design and function. Screwing around with things is always the fastest way to destroy any gun or marker's ability to shoot properly.
As it stands my primary obstacle to ownership is coming up with enough money. I'm not quite certain how much I have already, since I'm still owed a paycheck or two, and I'm not certain how much it will ultimately cost once everything else is factored in (shipping, FFL, etc). I'm hoping I won't be more than one or two hundred short. Time will tell. Thanks for the information!

PS: Would it likely be necessary to order additional, better mags from other companies, or am I safe to assume the included two will be adequate?

[1911slabsides]

I think that the two that come with the gun are fine for starters, Colt is making some pretty decent magazines.

[Rob96]

Congrats on getting a Pony for your first 1911. Couldn't choose a finer pistola. If you go out and check different makes, you will see that Colts feel different. The only exception I have found to this, is with a Wilson CQB I checked out yesterday. But man, $1900, I don't know if it is worth that. As for mags, the Colt ones work really well. The other mags my two Colts currently enjoy without any problems are CMC Shooting Stars and Power Mags, and the High Standard mags Midway was selling for a while. Good luck in your 1911 endeavors.

[wichaka]

1911slabsides;
"....the last thing is that you don't want to buy someone elses problems."

That's the best advice you'll get from anyone here. For the first gun, I suggest you do what you're trying to accomplish. Buying a new out of the box Colt.

As for mags., I use Wilson 47's for duty use, but I've also got some McComick Power mags. Both are worthy of consideration. But for starting out, use the Colt mags and enjoy the gun. Yes Colts feel different.......

[1911slabsides]

Rob96, You are right about the feel of a colt, I also have to agree that Wilson's feel pretty good, and I have to agree that $1900.00 is probably the right price for a Wilson but it is out of my price range, I don't shoot that good "nohow" :( . I think it's pretty interesting that this young man chooses a WW I repro out of all the choices out there, reading his posts it's pretty clear that it's going to take all his funds and maybe a few extra bucks to get it, Wes has got class and he's got style, and if it all works out he will have a classic gun that will last him his entire lifetime. I hope it is a long happy and healthy life. You all are a good bunch of folks. :D

[Wes Janson]

I'm afraid that $1900 is too much for a pistol right now, no matter how good it is. Thanks, slabsides :) I've got a feeling it's going to be a bit of an uphill battle, but I feel the conditions are right for me to succeed. Right now I keep being asked "What's the point in you owning a pistol?", and answering that to their satisfaction has been difficult. It's not an easy thing to explain. My father probably doesn't mind a gun itself, having grown up around them, but he severely dislikes the price. My mother can probably accept the fact that it's my money and deal with it, but she definitely belongs to the category of people who consider to a degree that all guns are instruments of murder. Added to this is the fact that once Sniper Country gets the Replica in, I'll only have a week or so to convince them, get the funds, and make the purchase, before the pistol gets taken off of hold. So, the next week or so will tell what happens. Thanks for the advice!

[Rob96]

Don't think I was suggesting the $1900 Wilson. I was just saying that it was the next best feeling 1911 I have handled. For me it is Colt all the way.

[1911slabsides]

Well I figured your parents are the final say so in the matter, I do understand their worries. Sounds like you are ahead of the game to be this far down the road with them. My son is 22 years old now and he has always been upfront with me. Sounds like you are the same way with your folks. The fact that you are using your own money will most definately make you respect it, lets face it, it's a lot of money, I know for a fact and your parents will probably agree being a parent is a learning experience. I have yet to figure many thing out. Sounds to me that you have the ability to make a really good show here for your parents. Once you get the pistol, maybe join a club and get to know some of the folks, gun people are really a good group of people. Who knows maybe if a few months you'll have your mom in the observation seats watching her son win a shooting competition. I can't escape the thought of how many people your age would have already blown that money on junk or all that other crap that is out there. I like guns I love the 1911, thats what allow you and I to chat here, The simple fact that you have a goal is the most important thing, if you wanted to get a $900.00 umbrella with your own money because you were interested and it was your goal I'd still think it was a good thing.
Owning a gun is a serious business, you are in the drivers seat to make a good show here, do it right and you might end up with your mom shooting better than you do :eek:

[1911slabsides]

Don't think I was suggesting the $1900 Wilson. I was just saying that it was the next best feeling 1911 I have handled. For me it is Colt all the way.

Oh Rob, I hope I didn't sound like I implyed that you were, it didn't seem like that at all. I think your points were absolutely correct. You were right on the money IMHO. Hope I didn't sound like I was flaming you, I didn't intend to do that, you are one of the good guys.

[1911slabsides]

I hate to miss the opportunity to post a picture of my 1911. This is truely the nicest 1911 I've ever had 87 years old. It was 44 years old when I was born, I'm sure glad the person that was watching MY 1911 took good care of it for me.http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v351/1911slabsides/Picture_012.jpg

[Rob96]

Oh Rob, I hope I didn't sound like I implyed that you were, it didn't seem like that at all. I think your points were absolutely correct. You were right on the money IMHO. Hope I didn't sound like I was flaming you, I didn't intend to do that, you are one of the good guys.

Didn't take it as a flame. Just didn't want anyone thinking I was suggesting the Wilson.

[1911slabsides]

Didn't take it as a flame. Just didn't want anyone thinking I was suggesting the Wilson.

Cool. Last thing I want to do is get somebody upset. To tell you the truth I've sort of lusted after Wilson's CQB for years. They are pretty damn nice. There is just something (probably the money) that has stopped me. I'm a Colt Guy too, but lets face it those Wilson's are hot. I really wouldn't be upset in owning one.

[Wes Janson]

I understand how you feel. On one hand, if it were free (or $100, or maybe even $500) I'm sure all of us would accept it more than willingly. On the other, two grand is probably too much.
The fact that you are using your own money will most definately make you respect it, lets face it, it's a lot of money
Allow me to give you a bit of advice. Never, ever, ever go into corporate retail at $5.75 an hour. :P It's just not worth it, unless you have a serious masochistic streak. At least it showed me on a deeper level how truly soulless some companies can be.
Once you get the pistol, maybe join a club and get to know some of the folks, gun people are really a good group of people. Who knows maybe if a few months you'll have your mom in the observation seats watching her son win a shooting competition.
My uncle has a small collection of firearms, and the tech guy at school who works with my mom is a Vietnam vet who likes everything that shoots. Both of them are a bit odd folks, rather interesting characters. While I'm not sure how interested I am in shooting competitively, I know that my mom will not likely develope an appreciation for firearms anytime in the next millenium. My dad enjoys shooting things to a fair degree. My mom simply could care less. As with paintball, it's not her responsibility and not her interest, all she cares is that I don't hurt myself or make a mess. Once those issues are solved, it becomes as interesting to her as sewing probably is to you or me. It's too bad she has absolutely no appreciation for mechanical beauty. I could show her the most intricate, or the most efficiently beautiful machine in existence and her response would invariably be "That's nice." Yet show her an oak tree or a maple tree in fall and she becomes ecstatic.
I can't escape the thought of how many people your age would have already blown that money on junk or all that other crap that is out there. I like guns I love the 1911, thats what allow you and I to chat here, The simple fact that you have a goal is the most important thing, if you wanted to get a $900.00 umbrella with your own money because you were interested and it was your goal I'd still think it was a good thing.

Computer games cost almost nothing but allow socialization, and paintball is much cheaper when subsidised by way of getting your father addicted. ;) As a front-line close combat player, it's also nice to have someone you trust in the back with long range giving fire support, and we've not once ever been on opposing teams in the two years or so we've been playing together. Too, books are fairly cheap and very enjoyable.
When I become interested in something, it's because I want to make it part of my life. I don't give up easily, and I'm creative enough to find solutions to most problems. I think my parents, especially my mom, know this, but just feel obligated to make sure everything is up to their standards. I usually do enough research beforehand to find out the truth about things, then it just becomes a matter of showing and explaining to them. After hearing positive opinions from her brother, her co-worker, and an old friend of the family, I think my mom has come to accept my decision. The only problem is that my mom should've been a politician: by conceeding to me in this round, she intends to use it as leverage in the near future. "You may purchase it ONLY if you promise to also do the following things around the house on a daily basis..."
Owning a gun is a serious business, you are in the drivers seat to make a good show here, do it right and you might end up with your mom shooting better than you do
Most of the time when driving somewhere together, my mom will allow me to drive. It's only when we're in a hurry that she insists on taking the wheel. It seems that she never seems to trust me to drive fast enough, even though we drive at precisely the same speed. My father may be an incredibly defensive driver, but I sometimes suspect both of them of taking things to extremes. Unfortunately I don't believe she'll likely ever gain an interest or desire in weapons of any sort. Unless by some random chance our house is ever broken into or threatened by someone, I don't see her caring for guns of any sort. Ah well.

[John]

Wes,

Please allow me to jump in this discussion, even a bit late.

First of all, like with every other purchase which costs more than pocket money, I would advise you to spend some time stugying on the issue. Go to M1911.ORG and spend some time to familiarize yourself with the ins and outs of the pistol. It's not a firearm for the faint of heart or the one who just wants to buy a pistol and start carrying it the other day. It requires effort and dedication.

But of course, it is a rewarding experience.

Coming to the 1911 you selected, a fine gun from what I hear. I would just like to pinpoint that:

Being a 1911 (vs 1911A1) it has all the peculiarities of the old pistol. Expect your hand to be bitten hard (most probably), expect the sights to be minimal and hard to see (keep in mind, this is a 47 years-old person who is talking). And being a Colt, expect it to be kind of pricey.

If I were in your shoes (which I am not), and since you have a long career of ... iron-collecting in front of you (I assume you live in US, where this noble passtime is allowed), and unless you want this pistol just because you are in love with the way old 1911s look, I would go for something less expensive and more functional. A pistol which will give you pleasure (instead of pain) when shooting. I still have the scars from my first shooting session with the 1911 (without a beavertail) and that was several years ago.

All in all, the WWI repro is a fine gun, but depending on the reasons you want it, it might prove a little dissappointing in the functional domain.

Rgds

[Wes Janson]

Can you tell me exactly what the circumstances are that cause it to cut the hand? Is it a matter of the size of one's hand, or the way the gun is being held, or is it something else? I've had a chance to handle an original 1911, but not yet fire one.
Thanks for taking note of my thread, by the way. These forums are rather unique in layout of all those I've visited elsewhere online. I really like many of its features which I haven't seen elsewhere (the ability to edit a post on the same page, for instance). Great job with the site!

[John]

Wes,

Thanks for the nice words, appreciated.

As for the circumstances, due to the design of the original 1911, the grip safety used, together with the hammer can cause the pistol to (actually) bite the web of your hand, between the thumb and the index finger, enough to draw blood. Believe me, after a lengthy shooting session, it can be painful.

I suggest you try firing an unaltered 1911 (or even a 1911A1 without a beavertail safety) to see if your hand is bitten. If not, then one of my objections to a standard 1911 is removed from your equation.

[Wes Janson]

Even if it did, would it not be possible to replace the standard parts with a beavertail? I suspect my hands are small enough that it won't be an issue, but I guess testing is the only way to know for sure.

[John]

Yes, it is possible to replace later, but the whole idea behind the WWI repro is to have a pistol which is exactly the same as the original 1911. If you start changing the grip safety/hammer and the sights or whatever else, why do you want to pay the initial steep price?

With the same money, you can get a pistol with all the above additional features installed from the factory. Something like a Springfield Loaded model.

Try to find an unaltered 1911 or 1911A1 (with the spur hammer) and give it a shot. See if your hands feel bad, if not you are lucky. Mind you my hands are not thick or anything, and I have that problem, so it is not easy to say unless you try.

Rgds

[Rob96]

Even if it did, would it not be possible to replace the standard parts with a beavertail? I suspect my hands are small enough that it won't be an issue, but I guess testing is the only way to know for sure.

I forgot all about the hammer bite on the originals. If you are thinking modifications, then I would rule out the WWI. In all honesty I really think that if you want the 1911 you would be better served by the Series 70 or 80 from Colt. A blued Series 80 will run you about $550. The only thing about the 80's guns is the firing pin, but to me it isn't a bad thing. With the WWI model, you don't want to go having a beavertail safety fitted to the frame, more like fitting the frame to the safety. As a gunsmith will have to grind frame material away to fit the safety. Once done, you can't switch it back. If you think there are any possibilities for customizing, get one of the other Colts mentioned. But stick with COLT. :D

[Wes Janson]

I understand. Guess it hinges now on whether or not it bites to fire. Hopefully I'll be able to go shoot one sometime soon and find out for sure.

[1911slabsides]

Wes, you have clearly done your Homework. Get it? Homework? When you explained how your parents operate it sort of reminded me of my family when I was growing up. I have a feeling that you are going to have to do those little odds and ends jobs not matter if you get the gun or not :p .

Now that John brought up the issue of hammer bite (good thing he did) I think other issues have come up along with it. The WW I repro IMHO should not be altered, It is made to look exactly like the origional 1911, swapping out parts would just ruin it. Usually the hammer bite happens for folks with fleshy hands, I personally don't have a problem with it and I'm a fairly wide load, I guess hammer bite is on a case by case basis and it just didn't occur to me because I don't have that particular problem. The sights are also much narrower than what you will find on newer versions of the 1911, I'm blessed with pretty good vision so I didn't consider the sights either.

Basically the WW I repro is running at the price it does because of what it is, changing it IMHO isn't something that should be done. Changing it would be like buying a new Mustang 5.0 and putting a Pontiac engine in it.

Personally I think that the chances of you really liking the WW I repro as it is is pretty good, I've found that I get use to what ever gun I'm shooting even if it has narrow sites, and if I shoot one with big target sights I get just as confused as the guy that trys mine with narrow sites. It's all perspective I guess,

I could suggest a New Roll Mark Colt 1991 to end your problems, but it doesn't sound like you really have any problems to begin with. The NRM costs about half, the sights are twice as wide, the grip safety is bigger, it may allow you to avoid chores (for awhile, but you'll probably never beat that one) The NRM is certainly a beautiful Pistol, it has everything you need and nothing you don't but it isn't a WW I repro either.

I got to admit that the competition shooting suggestion was a stab in the dark, I don't play well with others and have only observed a competition, can't say that I wanted to rush the line to sign up. :o

[Wes Janson]

Heh, thank you Slabsides :) I'm not exactly a researcher of hands, but I suspect I know what you mean by people with "fleshy" hands. I suspect that if it will work for anyone out there without hurting them, it should do so for me. And I also understand about not modifying the Replica, it was a stupid idea to bring up. As far as sights go, I'm young and have good vision, so I don't expect it to be a problem ;)
I actually did look at the 1991 as an alternative, but as you said "it isn't a WW I repro either". I suppose I'll have to wait until I get a chance to practice some target shooting and determine how well I shoot before looking into competitive shooting.

[1911slabsides]

Wes, Okay Fleshy means fat, It also means big, I've gotten a nip from a hammer a few times, But I'm not fat :D , I'm plump. I'm glad we got the aftermarket parts out of the way. Now for the next step on your WW 1 Repro, putting it into a holster is close to a crime in some ways, it's got a finish that is out of this world, digital cameras almost make a mess of how they really look. It's a finish that is out of this world. If you get it and you put in in a holster, I certainly hope it is a nice holster, because each time you put it in a holster the blue gets just a little thinner. Wow, all these cautions, it's hard to remember that it's supposed to be fun. How am I doing so far?

[Wes Janson]

Hmmm, so if I go looking for a holster, should I look for one with some sort of soft interior? Something that isn't coarse and won't wear on the finish so much? Or even perhaps just keep it away from holsters period? I also kinda wonder: would wearing something over the hand possibly help with the nip? I still doubt that will be a problem since my hands are fairly thin/small. The dealer e-mailed me a couple pictures of the gun and the box, when I get home I'll upload them and link. My mother seems to have a subconscious desire to emulate the ATF; she wants to delay things as long as possible in her hope that I'll somehow forget about the whole thing. Hopefully I can get my paychecks cashed and get the financial things together before the dealer gets tired of waiting and sells it. Apparantly he got two in at the same time, and now that I asked him to take photos the dealer wants to keep one of the two.

[1911slabsides]

hehehe your mom wants to emulate the ATF, I'll get back with you... can't say I would quarrel with her, Damn, YOU FUNNY. the thing about it is that after it's all said and done your MOM will probably be the biggest Proponent you have :eek: ;)

[Wes Janson]

She read what I wrote as I was submitting it, and actually got the joke. She said I know her too well. Let me see about the photos:

[Wes Janson]

http://www.maj.com/gallery/WesJanson/Colt1911/colt1.jpg http://www.maj.com/gallery/WesJanson/Colt1911/colt2.jpg

Let me play around with the pictures in photoshop and see if I can't make them a bit better.

[Wes Janson]

http://www.maj.com/gallery/WesJanson/Colt1911/colt1.1.jpg http://www.maj.com/gallery/WesJanson/Colt1911/colt2.2.jpg

I was just quoted a total price of $915+$9 shipping.

[1911slabsides]

Wes, I'm still laughing at what you said about your mom, it was nice but it really cracked me up, I'll get back to you. BTW BAM how bout this one? http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v351/1911slabsides/976474611-1.jpg

[Wes Janson]

It was true though ;P Hope dies hard ;)

[Wes Janson]

BAM??? Everything else being the same, I don't like the grips on that particular example. Not as much grain on it ;) Is that an image you found online, or your own?

[1911slabsides]

I'm sure it does. The one thing I can say for you is that you most clearly have picked the 1911 that you want. Come hell or high water it's a WW I repro, I'd venture to guess that your parents have already okayed it, they are probably just making you "walk the line" for awhile.

[1911slabsides]

found it on line. didn't you see the picture of the one I have? granted the grips are ugly on that model but I just wanted to pretend I was up to date. :D
there are actually a correct number of diamonds to count between the big diamonds, I don't recall the correct number. The purests that really know about these 1911's seem to have counted themselves as "too good" to comment. I'm doing the best I can, I ain't no expert. :o

[Wes Janson]

Hehehe...if you have any images you want me to brighten up, re-size, or otherwise improve, just ask. It's a fairly simple and quick process, and you'd be amazed what can be done to bad pictures using software.

From your sig, I take it you're part of the Blackhorses? I did a quick Google and found http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/agency/army/11acr.htm , which I take to be your former unit. Just wondering what you could tell me about your experiences. Thanks!

[1911slabsides]

I'll get right back with you on that image business. Stand by Please.

[1911slabsides]

here's one http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v351/1911slabsides/Picture003.jpg

it's not necessary to pick up the popcorn BTW. Nobody likes a smart A$$

[1911slabsides]

here's two.http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v351/1911slabsides/Picture_004.jpg

[Wes Janson]

LOL! Alright, no popcorn ;) <announcervoice> Please Stand By </announcervoice

Edit: One would hope so ;) Uploading in a sec

[1911slabsides]

at least I think it's popcorn :confused:

[1911slabsides]

I was right about here, long story,

On 17 May 1972 the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment once again unfurled its colors in Germany. This time it was at the famous Fulda Gap. The Regiment assumed a new, two-fold mission; defending the Fulda Gap against a possible Warsaw Pact attack while also conducting day-to-day surveillance of 385 kilometers of the Iron Curtain dividing East and West Germany. The Regiment relieved the inactivated 14th Armored Cavalry Regiment and joined V Corps - "The Victory Corps." Observation Posts (OP's) served as base camps as well as vantage points for observation. First Squadron occupied OP Alpha near Hunfeld-Schlitz-Lauterbach. Second Squadron was at Camp Lee northeast of Bad Kissingen near Bad Neustadt. Troops were dispatched to OP Tennessee. Third Squadron manned two OP's; Romeo, overlooking the Eisenach-Bad Hersfeld autobahn, at Herleshausen, which was a legal crossing point.

[Wes Janson]

Well, those were definitely tough to improve. Not much basic image to work with, bad lighting, and oversaturation ;) But I did what I could, I hope you like the result:
http://www.maj.com/gallery/WesJanson/Colt1911/shotgun.jpg
http://www.maj.com/gallery/WesJanson/Colt1911/grips.jpg

Edit: UGH! Hadn't realized how badly the second one needed to be re-sized smaller. Hold on a sec.

Image re-sized, link unchanged. Final result above.

[1911slabsides]

don't sweat it, the shotgun, I've seen it, it rolls really well, the other picture is my 1917 commercial model with different pants, can't say I like it too much. I took those pictures right after my girlfriend got me the camera, I didn't know how to take pictures, it's been several months and I'm proud to admit,,,,,,,,,,,,,, I still don't know hot to take pictures :o How about a picture of my Grandson? http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v351/1911slabsides/SuperXman.jpg

[Wes Janson]

This was a rather tough one. I had to play around with it a bit, and it still looks like crap unfortunately, but at least it's a little clearer. If I had to define what was wrong, I'd say the ambient lighting was too low in the background, and the subject is over-exposed by the flash.
http://www.maj.com/gallery/WesJanson/Colt1911/superbaby.jpg

Tips to taking a photo: Lots of lighting is good. Flash=bad. It can be useful in certain circumstances, but turning on a few good halogen bulbs will make a world of difference. A photo is the light that flew into the camera and made an impression on the film. Not enough light=not enough effect on the film=bad picture. You want the light source to be behind the camera, shining onto the surface facing the camera. I know just about nothing about photography, but to make a halfways decent image your most important thing is going to be having enough light. Probably best to leave flash off unless you really need it.

Oh, and if you upload to Maj, do *not* put any " " spaces in the name of the file. It won't allow it. I keep forgetting ;)

[John]

OK, since this thread is turning more to photography than 1911s, here is one I have taken when the twins just arrived home from the hospital.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v323/sv1cec/babyguns1.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v323/sv1cec/babyguns2.jpg

Nobody can say I proud of them, right??!!!

[1911slabsides]

Ohhh, sleeping soundly, The little Guy I posted is my grandson. He's not into 1911's just yet, but he is fond of Cheerios, go figure? Granted we sort of veered off the topic. Not anybodies fault except for Wes. We are stuck until he gets that WW I repro. We just starting talking about other stuff while we wait on WES. :eek: Sorry Wes, had to back stab there, heck what are friends for? I know I know, I'm the one that posted all the off topic pictures, But I'm hoping that the Comandante doesn't notice and I can blame it all on you. SHHHHHH don't say anything maybe he won't notice :p

[Wes Janson]

Hmmmm....how about making a low-velocity paintball gun that shoots Cheerios? Projectile mass might be a bit low for accuracy, but all you need is a range of a couple feet, max. ;)

My mom had some vague recollection that Heavy Metal Armory was somewhat disreputable. So I did some internet digging, and after we paid $2 to read the article, we found that www.machinegun.com used to offer pr0n with its guns, and the owner of HMA had some rather bad business issues in the past. Founded some crap search engine thing that sucked up hundreds of thousands of dollars, then supposedly went bankrupt after 9/11. Shortly thereafter said owner buys $165k new (second) home in upscale local neighborhood. Sooooo...doesn't seem like a very good choice. If he's a scammer, he's good at what he does because the law has yet to catch up with him. I suppose right now I'm going to have to go to another gun shop locally which, while apparantly owned/run by a guy who can be an *******, is at least well-established and reputable.

And I'm still waiting to get my last paycheck on Friday, at which point I can probably go ahead and look at ordering the Replica.

[1911slabsides]

low velocity cheerios, my @$$ thump them puppies out at him, if he can't handle high speed cheerios what good will he be to us when the poop hits the fan? I don't tolorate any limp wristed cheerio crapola, you'll either handle the cheerios at high speed or you are history! Wow I got all tense there I need to have some slow special K and I'll get right back with you.... :mad:

[John]

OK, here is the latest 1911 model I found:

Caspian Custom 45 gas blowback, heavy weight. Ultra grade hop up. Black with simulated wood logo grip. High Power - 325 + FPS. TM licensed. Uses 6 mm 1000 round BB, feeder bottle .20gr. high grade white BB (included). To propel the BB, Green Gas - 1000 ml. canister (included).

http://www.caspianarms.com/Images/Gas_Gun.jpg

This should do for my twins, but the price is 150 US$, ouch!!!

[Wes Janson]

You know, I think I saw that somewhere while doing a google search for the WWI Replica. I used all of the appropriate keywords looking for reviews on the Replica (incidentally, yours was the only one I ever found). Half the answers I found seemed to be reviews or ads for that target pistol somehow.

However, don't worry about that price! Check out this link: http://search.ebay.com/airsoft-1911_W0QQsokeywordredirectZ1QQfromZR8

From what I can see, average price seems to be in the vicinity of $25 USD. Shipping will likely run less than that, giving you a total price of under $50 USD. Even if they aren't identical, they'll probably be about the same sort of gun in the end. I dunno about the Green Gas stuff-if you can't get it in quantity locally, I'd look for an alternative propulsion system-based pistol.

[John]

I wouldn't worry about it Wes. My twins are still too young for these toys, so it will be quite a lot of time until they start asking for something that throws things. For the time being, they are happy doing "bong bong" with their mouth.

Also, Caspian just became a sponsor of M1911.ORG Home Page, so I am sure they'll give me a better price for these, if I ask politely.

Rgds

[Wes Janson]

Ask if you can get one at a discount to review for the site ;)

I'll probably be gone for a few days. Hurricane coming in tomorrow, so power will probably be down. Depending on the severity of the storm, at worst I might be off for a fairly long time. But, I doubt it seriously. I laugh in the face of any storm lower than at least a Class 4 or 5. :P Cya later

[desmo]

Wes, I have a 1911 WWI repro that is absolutely my favorite pistol. I do not have large hands, and I have no problems with "hammer bite." I shoot it as accurately as my Colt Gold Cup, and it is a complete joy to own.

It was my second pistol, my second Colt. You will be pleased :)

http://homepage.mac.com/ndjedinak/.Pictures/Photography/Guns/ColtWWI.jpg

[1911slabsides]

desmo, that sure is nice,

[Wes Janson]

OoooooooooOoooooooh. Damn that hurricane, if not for it I could be getting mine faster :(

[John]

Ask if you can get one at a discount to review for the site ;)

I'll probably be gone for a few days. Hurricane coming in tomorrow, so power will probably be down. Depending on the severity of the storm, at worst I might be off for a fairly long time. But, I doubt it seriously. I laugh in the face of any storm lower than at least a Class 4 or 5. :P Cya later
If you are away, use the "User Away" function in the User CP / Profile.

Why did I spend all that time, implementing it???

Rgds

[Wes Janson]

Roger. Will do. If I can figure it out.

[Wes Janson]

Ok, everything more or less back to normal. Near miss. No one liked the south Gulf coast anyhow, but they're definitely screwed at this point. Ahh well, better alligators and mangroves than me.

[Wes Janson]

I forgot to mention that my original interest in the 1911, and how I found this site, was in the process of researching a drawing of a gun in operation. Ultimately I decided on using the following as the basis of my drawing. http://www.m1911.org/images/full_anim.gif

The completed drawing was done at roughly 2x the scale of the original image, and probably in the vicinity of 1.5x to 1.75x the scale of the actual pistol. I did indeed scan it and edit it slightly on the computer (mainly to compensate for having to scan it in two portions), so once I get home today I'll try to dig up the image and post them here. It was quite possibly my favorite piece of work from last year.

[1911slabsides]

I've been sitting here for 10 minutes watching it. I went into a hypnotic state I think. that's pretty cool.

[Wes Janson]

Erm.... *looks around hopefully* ...keep staring... It seems I left my disks at school, so I won't be able to post it until tomorrow. Don't worry..help's on its way, just hang in there. ;)

[John]

I've been sitting here for 10 minutes watching it. I went into a hypnotic state I think. that's pretty cool.
Here, try this one. It's a bit big (700 kb), but interesting for .... dozzing zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

[1911slabsides]

15,000 rounds no FTF no failure to eject. Its true I've been counting :D

[Wes Janson]

It's the perfect gun!

[guncop]

WOW! The cycle of operation - for the new generation! I love it !!!!!!

[Wes Janson]

Ahh, at last I've found them. Incidentally, I also happened to get final permission to order, and my order has been placed for Colt WWI Replica Serial No. 1941WMK (payment forthcoming). And now my mom is talking about signing up for gun classes with me, and going to gun shows. She's under alot of stress lately, and I suspect that while she's largely joking, she might expect shooting at the range to be a good stress relief. Who knows. I'm somewhat worried at the prospect of her with a firearm.

Anyways, the two images I created are too large to directly insert into the thread (they'd probably make the scroll bar on most screens extend way further than is polite). So I'm linking to each one below. The first of the two is the original drawing as done before inking and finishing. The second is after being finished, and inked. Total time spent on this project was in the vicinity of 4-5 weeks, working 2-3 days a week for 1 1/2 hours at a time (plus several hours research). Enjoy!

Original: http://www.maj.com/gallery/WesJanson/Colt1911/pistol.jpg

Pen and Ink: http://www.maj.com/gallery/WesJanson/Colt1911/pistolpenandink.jpg

[1911slabsides]

Wes,

You have clearly done your homework. What was I doing giving you pointers? If you got into that much detail you already know more about the 1911 than I do. If you stay with it, you are going to be really good with the 1911, I may end up seeing you on TV.

[Wes Janson]

..and, presumably, not in the context of being hauled off to jail? ;) Heh. Thanks for the compliments, but I still need more study of the trigger and hammer assembly, and the precise functioning and position of each piece in relation to the frame and to the others. I'll be satisfied when I can mentally recreate that animation, and go through each part as it moves. ;)

[1911slabsides]

No Wes, I was referring to "Cops" or "True Stories of the Highway Patrol" :D

One thing that may help you understand the hammer sear and disconnector thing, The hole in the disconnector is big it allows the disconnector to slide up and down, and inside the slide the is a cut to allow the disconnector to slip back up and lock the sear back in place. Now if you understood what I just said maybe you can explain it to me.

[Wes Janson]

Heh, I'm a visual person. I can draw you accurate blueprints of several hundred different buildings I've been in during my life, but at times I couldn't tell you the name of my best friend. A large part of my reason for getting a 1911 is to disassemble the puppy down to a level where going any further would require factory tools ;) Without harming it. When you really think about it, guns are absolutely incredible pieces of technology. A hundred different pieces of inert metal, combined in shapes and ways as to (with the addition of explosives) make a piece of metal fly hundreds or thousands of feet along a highly precise path. I can't begin to understand programming, but mechanical things I appreciate greatly.

[1911slabsides]

Wes,
I guess that's human nature, Some of the most traumatic times of my life for instance. I can see everything just like it is happening now, (even when I don't want it to) but for the life of me I can't remember the year or the season. I guess that's just the way we are made. I kinda remember the good things like that too, but I'm not to concerned about when it happened.
You, My Friend, will have that 1911 figured out in a flash, I'm all about hands on, and I understand the 1911 better than some people can handle, But if I were to draw a picture I'd stay way away from the internals,
Maybe we'll see you on the history channel instead.
My ex wife is destined for "cops" whatcha gonna do???????????

[Wes Janson]

Well slabsides, I'll be damned. You were right. :P I dunno how, or why, but now my mom seems to be warming up to firearms. She hefted a Kimber 1911, and decided that the .45 is too large for her hands. Tried out a Ruger .22 target pistol, but it was too heavy. Tried my aunt's Beretta Bobcat M21, and while she liked the heft she felt the grip was too short and wanted something taller. The range had a polymer .22 which I believe was a Beretta, that she liked, but I suspect they were asking about a third to a fourth more than it was worth. I dunno if anyone here has any suggestions, but she wants a small .22 or other light caliber pistol, probably short-barrel, with a weight of probably 12-16 oz. Something around $200 would probably be ideal. If only she could use a 1911, I'd look seriously at a .22 conversion kit. Well slabsides, you've created a monster now :P I'll make sure to bill it to you ;)

[Wes Janson]

Pistol purchased; product presumed posthaste. FFL in the mail, gotta admit it's slower than a snail. Bad puns must end soon, as I better get to sleep 'fore noon.

[1911slabsides]

So what I am understanding is that you've got the Pistol on the way. Well Cool, great, fantastic. Do keep us posted, I want to hear all about it.

[desertmoon]

Ahh, nothing worse than waiting for a new toy!! I just got done wating for a fairly early 44 Auto Mag and that was the longest wait of my life....something like ALMOST THIRTY YEARS. The last week was the killer! I have wanted one since around 75 or 76 and was FINALLY able to swing a beautiful one!!!

I hope your purchase brings you much happiness!!!

[joe castetter]

hi guys !! boy that is a nice colt , now its makes me want to get a colt repo,, i have a series 70 mk4 made in 72 and a colt gunsite pistol in stainless steel..now you guys got me thinking, hope you have fun les....

[Wes Janson]

Well, I got mine from www.snipercountry.px , which is actually pretty close to you. Take a look at: http://www.mapquest.com/directions/main.adp?go=1&1a=&1c=shamokin&1s=PA&1z=&1y=US&do=nw&1ex=1&2ex=1&src=maps&ct=NA&2a=3103%20Pruss%20Hill%20Rd&2c=Pottstown&2s=PA&2z=19464%2d2203&2y=US&2pn=&2l=IMxWMtWnMPQ%3d&2g=rFD2Tjkh8Dg%3d&2v=ADDRESS&2pl=

You're about 2 hours away. According to the owner, he might very well get in another Replica or two within a few weeks. Might be worth calling him up and finding out more ;)

[vulconlas]

Hi: I am new here and not quite up to this yet, byt here goes. My father pasted away leaving me with a Military Issue Colt 45. Well, not really. It has a government issue COLT ACE slide on it. Also in the box is a Colt Military Issue 45 slide, and a 38 Super Government Issue slide. I am in doughtes which gun this really is ? I have fired all and they shoot fine, however not knowing which came with the bottom. Is there anyway of telling which one came with the bottom issued 45 or whatever ? Also any idea of value. Thanks. I can be reached at : res1kyj5@verizon.net VULCONLAS

[1911slabsides]

You really need to use the serial number of the gun, there are several ways too look up serial numbers starting right on this site, BTW if you do post your serial number you'll probably NOT want to post the whole number just put an XX to replace the last two numbers, It strikes me as odd that the super slide worked also, the ejector for a super is different than the 45, but strange things do happen, check the serial number, if you have trouble let someone here know, it's a good group of guys they'll help you out.

[vulconlas]

Wish to thank you for the info. No, durning some war, II or After, the Colt MFG. Co. was requested for a handgun with more power and very excellent shooting for officers. The 38 super came out then. I read up on it however still don't know what goes with what. Believe me, the ACE, 38 Super, and 45 slid all work very very well. Have tried every one of em. 38 Super has a real wall-up. Thanks again. VULCON :)

[1911slabsides]

Actually the 38 super came out in 1929 and was made more for law enforcement than anything else. Back then the gangsters "motorized bandits" were starting to use bullet proof vests, the 38 super is a pretty hot cartrage and it was able to get through the vests of that time period. There was also a 38 automatic and a super round will fit and it shares the same dimensions as a super but it will cause serious pressure problem to the older 38 auto. The 38 super has the appearance of the 9mm but is is much hotter and the super is semi rimed the 9mm rim is not wider than the case, the supers rim is just a touch wider than the width of the rim. With regard to the military version of the 38 auto, There was a colt 1903 automatic that was chambered in 380, it is basically the same diameter of the 38 super but in a lighter grain bullet and a much shorter casing.

I suspect that your pistol is probably a 45 acp and there is just enough rim on the case to hit the extractor to eject the case, If it were a 38 super I really doubt that the 45 acp would work, I "think" that the 45 case would be too much of a squeeze with a 38 super extractor, Mind you I only "think" its probably a 45 but I'm not 100% certain.

[Wes Janson]

I'm curious slabsides, what is the motivation behind the practice of only quoting the serial number minus the last three digits? I've seen it in many online firearm auctions, and then the seller goes right ahead and posts close-up images of the gun including stamped serial number...which doesn't seem to make any sense at all. Is it a legal issue? Or a safety issue? Or something else entirely?

On another note, the WWI was shipped today.

[1911slabsides]

To be honest I'm not sure of the serial number business, Its been going on for years, My thinking (I don't know what others are thinking) is that it would be real easy for a scrod to pick up the serial number and report it stolen. And the day comes that you get stopped by a cop and he runs a 29 on your weapon and it comes back stolen. Another honesty I've kind of noticed is how the hell did we come into possession of a gun with the same serial number that we bought legally? You know the drill, the less people know about you the better, we are all friends here but whos to say that there isn't a **** head that want's to make our life miserable,

[Wes Janson]

Gotcha...I figured there had to be some safety reason there.

[Wes Janson]

It's arrived at the range, I'll be going over there shortly to get the paperwork done and check it out.

[care-less]

Picked up mine today Wes; you are going to love that pistol. Enjoy yourself.

[joe castetter]

i love when people talk about there colt's