1911 newb - wanting to build one and need some input

[schufflerbot]

I searched fairly thoroughly and couldn't seem to refine my results to display anything less than a bible's worth of threads so...

I want to build a 1911. I'm sure there are cheaper and easier alternatives out there but, I prefer to build a gun that's new and interesting to me as opposed to buying one outright.

What I'm looking for is reference material that I can geek out on for a while before i start ordering parts.

Anyone have a good link(s) to a wealth of 1911 knowledge?


Thanks!

[Sidro]

Jerry Kunhausen a 1911 shop manual. If you order your 1911 parts or kit from Fusion firearms they will be a great help with your build anytime you need some coaching.

[schufflerbot]

great site, thanks!

i know the very basic of the design, learned how to field strip and reassemble one on my own. (father in law's llama .45)

looking for info on what size what needs to go with what... maybe a parts exploded diagram for the full size and commander models.


i want the full size frame for sure.

[mbw]

The standard for builiding your own is Caspian-

http://www.caspianarmsltd.com/" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

Most of the custom builders use Caspian frames and slides. As for the small parts Wilson Combat to Brownells, they are everywhere.

[schufflerbot]

i just spent the last 30 minutes looking at various caspian custom 1911s.


love it, love it love it.

[DocV]

Brownells has a 6 part series about building your own 1911.
Start with:
http://www.brownells.com/.aspx/lid=1253 ... 911-Part-I" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
and work your way through.

[mbw]

How deep down the rabbit hole do you want to go?

Here is the ultimate “Build Your Own” program-


http://rodgerspistolsmithing.com/" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

Bob Rodgers holds build your own classes several times per year. They last for 1 week.

[schufflerbot]

awesome. this is the vault of knowledge i needed.


thanks you guys, i do indeed have a ton of reading ahead of me.

[schufflerbot]

http://how-i-did-it.org/1911-project/" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false; :

OUTSTANDING READ!

[rm9792]

Keep in mind that a 1911 doesnt just drop together, even with same manufacterer quality parts. A lot of parts are sold oversize for fitting. If you want to do it yourself it will be a good learning experience but budget plenty of time as most of the fitting is by hand. You may get one to just drop together but it may not be safe. The sear engagements are measured in thousandths so it is critical it all fits. Feel free, even required, to ask a lot of questions while you are building it. I doubt you will save any money building your own but the wealth of knowledge gained not only in the guns workings but in general metal working will be valuable. Plus you get exactly what you want in the end. Welcome to the club!

[schufflerbot]

well, let's hold off on the 1911 welcome wagon for now - i've been reading for quite a while today and i'm starting to realize that, like all things worth having, you get what you pay for.

it seems that a newb in the world of 1911s would greatly benefit from purchasing parts of higher quality... to cut down on the 'blowing my hand up' factor.

i haven't even started researching prices yet and when i do, it might be a while before i can even afford a frame.

i will most certainly involve you guys in the entire process... thanks for the future help!

[rm9792]

Frame is not really an expensive part. Look at the Fusion frames on Gunbroker. Actually, I would suggest getting a matching frame/slide from them and a lot of the hardest fitting is already done.