Adding a rail to a 1911

[74novaman]

I like Weapon Mounted Lights. Being able to see is handy, and the earth has this weird tendency to get dark for a significant part of every day, which makes a good light kind of important.

I also enjoy 1911s, but my only current 1911 (like most of them) doesn't have the ability to equip a light.

Options:

1) Go without a light
2) Buy a Rail model 1911
3) Buy goofy grip/rail thing that came out recently
4) Buy a Surefire MR07.

I went with #4. The MR07 is under $100, and was actually a drop in, bolt on part...not typical in the 1911 world. It took all of 5 minutes to install. I mated it up with a Streamlight TLR1s, and now have a 1911 with a WML on the cheap.

Lockup feels solid, new slide stop works correctly using snap caps, and function will be tested (hopefully tomorrow) at the range.

Pictures:

[budroux2w]

I like your light, I have one of those too. I would vote for #2 though, it's a good solid excuse to buy a new gun

Set up looks solid, let us know how it works.

[ghostrider]

#5. have the 1911 drilled & tapped for a metal "add-on" rail

http://www.novaksights.com/products/lightrails.html" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
http://www.midwayusa.com/product/471546 ... uctFinding" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

I haven't installed one, but I have one in my parts bin somewhere.

[74novaman]

#5. have the 1911 drilled & tapped for a metal "add-on" rail

http://www.novaksights.com/products/lightrails.html" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
http://www.midwayusa.com/product/471546 ... uctFinding" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

I haven't installed one, but I have one in my parts bin somewhere.

I don't have a drill press, so this was a DIY option I could use.

[G.A. Heath]

I believe that Crimson Trace has an option as well. It's a light that fits on the trigger guard, one advantage of it is that many holster manufacturers support it.

[74novaman]

Took it to the range today.

200 rounds, no issues other than getting used to the balance of the gun being a little different.

I'm a fan.

[Excaliber]

That's neat looking, and best of all - it works.

I keep a light on my house gun, but don't mount one on my carry guns because of the bulk and the fact that in most circumstances where I would use it, there is more than enough ambient light to make it unnecessary - particularly with tritium night sights.