[MarineTech]

It finally sank in that summer is over, we're getting into fall, and before long, I'm going to have a lot of time to sit on my can twiddling my thumbs (I'm not a winter sports person). I normally have the bulk of my reloading done by mid January, so I normally do a gun project each year.

In the past, I've fitting my M1A out with all USGI parts, restored a Remington Model 8 in 35 Reminton to functioning, and last year I built up a .257 Roberts bolt action sporter from a Mauser action. So, now I'm looking for this years project and I've got the itch to work on a 1911.

Presently, I have an early Springfield Armory Micro Compact. A friend of mine bought it, found out it was only reliable for about 4 magazines worth of FMJ ammo before it would start to jam from fouling. He was going to trade it in on something else, but found out he'd take a complete bath on the cost. I bought it from him for $50 over what the dealer offered him and figured I might be able to play with it a bit and make it run. I never quite got around to that, but now I'm getting the itch for a new 1911. Presently, I own a full sized Colt Series 70, as well as a Para Ordnance CCW LDA. What I'd like, is a standard single action 1911 with a Commander length slide on an Officer's size frame for the occasional carry outing.

Now keep in mind the previous projects I've completed, and the fact that I'm able to disassemble a 1911 down to pins and screws.

So, my questions are:

Would I have the skill to complete such a build without running to a gunsmith (Nearest decent 1911 smith is now about 6 hours away)?

Is the original SA Micro Compact a true Officer's Model frame, or was it shortened further in the front, AND would a Commander slide fit this frame?

If those two answers are YES, then suggestions on parts to use would be welcome. I'm not looking for a match accurate pistol, I'm looking to build a reliable and inexpensive 1911. No frills. No flash. Think of a WW2 GI pistol. It ain't pretty, but it gets the job done reliably. Doesn't have to feed anything besides 230gr. FMJ ammo.

So what's the consensus here? Is this do-able or should I drop back 10 and punt?

[usp_fan]

It should be doable by you with simple tools, but I can't answer the question about the frame you have.

1911's are fun to modify and play with, the 1911forum is a great place to hang out and glean info.

--usp_fan

[scott.cr]

If you're going to invest the money into 1911 tools you can grace that micro and then build yourself a few more from gunsmith-fit parts.

I don't know what your knowledge of 1911s are, but you'll be spending a lot of time reading and learning.

I'm about to start my first 1911 from scratch and so far I have spent $400 on gun parts and $600 on tools. And that's already with a decent tool collection that includes machining equipment (mini lathe and mini mill).

Anyway, back to the micro compact. First you should complete breaking it in and positively identifying the reason for stoppages. (I have a feeling the bullet contacting the slide stop is something you should check.) That way everything is burnished, and having a smooth gun will go a long way toward the overall accuracy of your work.

I would change out all the internals with brand-name. I HATE the fit of Springfield's MIM parts. Change everything including the plunger tube. You can keep the stock barrel and conceivable spend a week getting it to lock up "perfectly."

Oh something you might want to explore is a DIY refinish job with one of the bake-on or two-part finishes. I haven't tried either but love the idea of a two-part, no bake finish (like Duracoat).