[firestar]

The Star BM I ordered from AIM came in and I picked it up from my dealer today. For those of you that don't know, the Star BM is a Commander sized, all steel, single stack 9mm 1911 style pistol.

It looks great. It came with two mags, the manual and original Star plastic box. I would rate the finish at about 85% but it doesn't look to have been fired or used very much. The bore is 95% and the extra mag is 100% with no marks. Maybe it was carried enough to were the high stops but not shot much?

It fits my hand like it was made for it and the controls are smooth and light. The trigger is outstanding! It is light and crisp with no creep or overtravel. It really feels like a match trigger to me. The hammer is easy to cock and has wonderful clear clicks at half and full cock. The safety is positive and moves in and out of safe with a stong "snick". All matching numbers and all original as far as I can tell.

The only draw back is the gun comes with a mag safety. I hate mag safeties but I'm sure it can be fixed. Also, it is a little heavy due to being made of steel instead of aluminum but it will help durability and follow up shots.

I will shoot it and give a range report probably next week but if this Star BM is anything like my Firestar or Star B, it should be a real shooter. I am going to order another one for a spare and because they are sooooo cheap right now! AIM has them for $129 each. That is an unbelievable good price on a gun of this quality. After shipping and FFL, I paid about the same for the Star BM as I did for the Makarov that I just got and I think the Star is a MUCH better gun. If this gun were made and sold today, it would cost $400-500.

I give it a thumbs up for now but I have not shot it yet so I can't be sure of its other qualities until I do. Every Star I have seen has been reliable and way beyond what is considered average in terms of accuracy. Most Stars seems to be made well with the exception of some of the guns that came out recently.

[Spieler]

Thanks for the write up. I too have been eyeing those BMs at AIM as the price and their reputation are right. I may have to wait a few weeks though and let my wife recover from my last purchase...she has her own "one gun a month" policy. :p

[Archie]

Years ago, I had a Star BKM. Same gun, but with alloy frame. Fit in a trouser pocket. Traded it off for something; still regret it.

I'd buy one or two of those puppies in a second, but living in People's Democratic Socialist Republic of California, His Leftness has decided it is improper for me to so do.

[AUTIGER04]

So what did you pay? I have also been eyeballing these guns. One dealer told me that he would have to charge me about $300+. Another dealer (pawnshop) said they could get me one for about $170 give or take.
Hurry Up and Shoot that thing Man! Fill us in on the results. Post pics.:)

[firestar]

I paid $155 with shipping and FFL. I was going to buy one of these at the last gunshow for $199 but I didn't, when I saw that AIM had them for $129.00, I couldn't see any reason not to get one. Everybody seems to have lowered their price on the BMs right now, SOG has them for about $150 and so do a few other places. I was thinking that these lower distributor prices would translate to lower dealer prices and I might be able to find one for $150-175 at the next gunshow or maybe online but I didn't want to take the chance so I just ordered while the price was low.

After seeing my Star BM, my dealer said that he was thinking about ordering a few for resale and at least one for himself. He is one of the few people that I have met that like Star pistols as much as I do.

[woodyed]

I've had the Star BM 9mm for about 20+ years now and I have never regretted buying it. It has been a very dependable pistol with no malfunctions that I can remember. I bought it new from Interarms, who was the importer. I still use it today for my carry gun. I hope I never need any parts for it as they might be hard to get at the present time. I just might pick up another one in case I might need to replace parts at some future time.

[firestar]

One dealer told me that he would have to charge me about $300+. Another dealer (pawnshop) said they could get me one for about $170 give or take.

I don't see why they would have to charge you $300!:confused: $170 is a good price and I would pay that in a second. They are probably worth $300 but there is no reason to pay that much when every distributor is now selling them for well under $200. I expect to pay about an extra $50 over what distributors charge but not much more.

I would buy another if I saw a good deal on one at the next gunshow. Anything under $200 OTD seems to be a good deal and one that I would jump on.

[firestar]

I just wanted to say thank you to Stephen A. Camp. He is the reason that I bought my Star B and now my Star BM. He did a write up on the BM a while ago and I have been wanting one ever since but I was waiting on a deal (like I do;) ). I trust his opinions enough to risk the money on a puchase that he recomends.

[AUTIGER04]

Cool! I keep checking around. The dealer that was asking $300 is known as a crook. He has no competition in this area. Ill travel about 20 miles and order myself one. ;)

[wardog]

I just ordered one up today through my dealer from AIM. (and a CZ-52 while I was at it :)

I can't wait. I've always wanted both of them, just never got around to doing it. Happened to buy a "Concealed Carry Handguns" magazine today, and found a write up on the BM in it. The writer had only good things to say as well.

Now to order up some ammo.

[JackDRipper]

Firestar, Is this Star BM about the same size as the RAP? JR

[Min]

Why is the Star BM an unfortunate abbreviation?

[Dashunde]

Who is "AIM" and "SOG"?

[caz223]

SOG= http://www.southernohiogun.com/
BM=bowel movement
LOL

I bought my star PD after seeing a Stephen A. Camp range report.
His range report was spot-on.
I sure wasn't disappointed.

[Stephen A. Camp]

Hello. Glad the reports on the Star pistols were of use.

Best.

[firestar]

Firestar, Is this Star BM about the same size as the RAP? JR

More or less. It weighs about the same but it is a little longer in the bbl and grip. It is thinner than the RAP 401 so I think it would be even easier to CCW in a belt holster or IWB.

[firestar]

Stephen, if you still around, what is the cure for the mag safety? I want it gone because I don't like them.

[Stephen A. Camp]

Hello. To remove the magazine disconnect on the Star BM, you need to first remove the grips. Near the bottom of the magazine well on the left side you'll see a long leaf spring thing that's secured by a hollow tube extending through the frame. Just knock it out from the other side and the magazine "safety" is gone. It's just as easily replaced should you so desire at a later time. Magazines should drop free with the removal of this device.

Best.

[firestar]

Thanks Mr. Camp! I just removed the mag safety on my Star BM and now it will drop the mags free just like you said.

I also tried to do the same to my Firestar but the bottom pin of the mag safety spring holds in what looks to be the hammer spring. I just cut off the top portion of the assembly and now the mag safety is gone and it too will drop the mags free. It was a permanet change but I don't ever plan on selling the Firestar so I am not worried about it too much.

Thanks again!

[jar]

It's a shame that the STAR is being rediscovered long after it's too late to save the company. I hapen to think that the STARs are some of the nicest pistols made, and my UltraStar is one of my favorite semis.

For a long time these guns have been sitting on shelves gathering dust and it's only been in the last year or so that people seem to be giving them a second look. So far, most everyone who has tried one has raved about them. Back when I first started buying handguns on my own, the STARs from Spain, Berettas from Italy, Colts and Smiths from the US, Walthers from Germany and the Browning HiPowers from Belgium were the top shelf guns.

[mtnbkr]

I tried to resist buying one of these. I stumbled across them at Aimsurplus, got interested and did some research. Everything was pretty good. I read Mr. Camp's article, more kind words. This weekend, I stumbled across a magazine (if you want to call a $9.99 publication a magazine) with a nice article about the Star BM and it's suitability to CCW. Now, I read Firestar's post about it. I can no longer resist, I placed an order with Aimsurplus. I hope it's as good as everyone says it is... :)

Chris

[Mike Irwin]

Damn you, Chris!

Now I have to play "keep up with MTNBKR!"

Crap.

OK, I'll wait a few days until they get Bernie's FFL and then order one myself....

[mtnbkr]

OK, I'll wait a few days until they get Bernie's FFL and then order one myself

They already have it on file. There's a three day shipping delay though. I'm assuming a backlog of orders to process or some other business related issue...

Chris

[Stephen A. Camp]

Hello. I've had this one for quite a few years. I suggest picking up extra magazines as you can and keeping your eyes open for firing pins & extractors, just in case.

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid29/p22bfebe96920aa687425ff4fc6b26058/fd58a01c.jpg

Best.

[Terminus]

This thread has gotten me *this* close to ordering one of these babys. Can anyone tell me what holsters will work with it?

Man, the wife's gonna kill me...again.

[mtnbkr]

So far, I haven't found any specific ones, but it looks like generic "slide" type holsters will work.

Chris

[BevrFevr]

Do NOT Dry fire them.

Those firing pins are FRAGILE! Mr. Camp is correct in that one should be on the lookout for extra's.

I think Gun Part's Corp(Numrich Arms) had a good supply of em.

Use a snap cap or live ammo and you should be fine. Just the tip will break off and usually fly or fall out the barrel.

Great Guns other wise. I could pummel the crack head that stole my dad's (previously my Grandfathers) Star. I still have the box and instruction manual.

-bevr

[Penman]

The frame size on the Star B series is a little trimmer than a 1911. Helps in concealment and certainly handles well. Milt Sparks used to offer holsters for the BKS, you might give them a call and see if they still offer that model, it would just need to be a little shorter.

[AUTIGER04]

I did a search over on the Numrich Gun Parts forum. Theres a guy there from pagunparts@tesprint.com. He says to email for more details about hard to find parts.

1.I heard only 2 bad things about these guns. Parts are hard to find. Thats bad if you are a shooter or plinker.

2.My gun dealer said that he ordered 2 and the same 2 guns got returned for repairs. I didnt ask what the problem was. Hes sort of a "ButtHead".
But I can tell you that Mr Gun Shop Owner wasnt happy with AIM and their Star BM.:(

I guess Ill get my Glock a little sooner now that, I put the Star on hold until furthur notice.:)

[firestar]

Don't wait too long. They are not going to be $129 forever!

I like the Star BM better than my CZ-52, CZ-70, Makarov, RAP 401 and FM Hi Power. It seems to be better made than most inexpensive surplus and fits my hand better also.

[BevrFevr]

Yes they are sweet.

And they are loveable until Bang, Bang, Bang turns into Click, Click, Click.

:D

-bevr

[WonderNine]

I hope we'll see somebody make a stainless steel firing pin replacement for these like with the CZ52's.

[jsalcedo]

Where did these guns come from?
Are they police /military issure from spain?

I've been eyeing them as well.

[firestar]

[QUOTE]Where did these guns come from? Are they police /military issure from spain?/QUOTE]

Mine must have been either a Police/Military surplus or a Spanish commercial version intended to sell only in Spain. I say this because the onwers manual is written in Spanish only with no English instructions! Also on the frame is C.A.I.'s import stamp that I have seen on several C&R guns that I own. They import alot of surplus and sell to other distributors.

I also have owned a Star B that is becoming one of my favorite pistols to shoot at the range. I've had it for about 6 months now and I enjoy shooting it more and more. I hope my Star BM will live up to my Star B. I had some reliability problems with the Star B at first but after tweaking the mag follower, it has been almost 100%. I would not trust it as a self defense gun because it was originally designed to fire a longer round than the 9mm Luger (9x23 IIRC). The Star BM was intended as a 9x19 from the get-go so it should be a little more reliable.

As far as spare parts as concerned, I just bought a spare gun. :D It should be here by Sat. When a firing pin costs $30 and a entire gun cost $129, you might as well get the whole thing.:p

I used to think the 1911 design was overrated until I felt the difference between the rounded mainspring housing and the flat. I like the rounded MUCH better. The Star B is sort of like a 1911 but a little slimmer and it shoots cheap 9mm ammo so I can practice more often. I think I see a Colt 1911 in .45 in my future again.:D I would like to get a real military issue one in decent shape. Maybe the Sistema Colt?

[Oleg Volk]

I love my Star BM but only have onbe mag for it. Does anyone know where I could buy three more mags for it?

[mtnbkr]

SAC-STBMMAG
$12.95

At http://www.southernohiogun.com

Chris

[65_Toy]

Since they are so similar to the 1911 will a 1911 9mm magazine work?

My favorite pistol (never even thought of selling since new) is my Springfield 1911A1 in 9mm Mil-spec. For some reason it is just "right".

Been toying with the idea of a Star B, and a Star BM, and a Sistema, and a ...:cool:

[firestar]

Since they are so similar to the 1911 will a 1911 9mm magazine work?

I remember a guy on another board that was issued Star B in the military, I think he was in Africa somewhere. He said that he and others were not happy with the reliability of the Star B with the 9x23 mag so they bought and modified Colt 9mm 1911 mags to fit. He said they were reliable. I don't know what mod you have to do but a 9x19 mag would be a little shorter than one for a 9x23.

[WonderNine]

Anyways, now when you say you've got a BM in your pants it could mean something entirely different! :D

[firestar]

Anyways, now when you say you've got a BM in your pants it could mean something entirely different!

Good one!:D Such an unfortunate name for such a neat little pistol.:eek: I was toying with the idea of changing my screen name from "Firestar" to "BM" but I thought better of it.:D

[mtnbkr]

I got mine today. The finish is rather poor. I'd guess it's 80%, but thin over all. The grips are intact though. That's ok, because I plan to refinish it anyway. Otherwise, the condition appears to be fine. No frame peening, etc. As soon as I shoot it, I'll post the results...

Chris

[santai]

Hey Guys,

I've been watching this thread for a while, but finally broke down and ordered a Star BM from AIM tonight. It sounds like I should expect the finish to be rough but the mechanics to be good. Are there any Do-it-yourself refinishing kits or do I need a gunsmith ? Any known CCW holsters would be helpful. Found the firing pin spares at http://www.e-gunparts.com as someone suggested, item # 715790, $13.35. Extractor, item 715800, $16.05. Anyone know of any replacement grips that will work ?


Thanks,

santai:D

[Stephen A. Camp]

Hello, sir. You might contact Mr. Eric Larsen at Holsters By Eric. I think he'll make a holster for your pistol to your specs if desired. I don't have an address right at hand, but a search would likely provide the information.

Best.

[mtnbkr]

A Galco FLETCH for a 1911 Commander is a good fit as well. The snap is a tad loose (1/4" - 1/3" too large), but it's close enough.

Chris

[Ant Mod]

http://www.donttouchme.com/star/index.html

Lots of information about Star pistols including the BM. In the information section they discuss many of the questions asked here.

[Stephen A. Camp]

This might be a bit late as you've purchased the pistol, but here's an old "range report" on the Star BM.

Hello. Though a design no longer produced by anyone and with spare parts hard to find, these are pretty good little handguns considering that they can frequently be found for under $200 in new or like new condition.

An all-steel pistol w/fixed sights and a 3.77" bbl, they offer no frills, but offer all you "need" in an inexpensive carry pistol. First, they are flat and thinner than most guns on the market. This measures 0.84" thick. The rear sight's a simple blade while the front's a serrated ramp. It comes "throated" from the factory and this one has fed most rounded type JHPs with no problems. An exception is Remington's 124 gr Golden Saber which simply will not feed in this pistol. Other Star BMs might do fine.

Finish is a reasonably even blue with no thin spots and the one-sided, enlarged thumb safety is for right-handed shooters. The stocks are plain, brown, checkered plastic or hard rubber; they are flexible, but not "soft."

Here's a picture of the pistol and one notes a removable bushing ala the 1911, although this pistol comes with a captive recoil spring and a FLGR. It also comes with a magazine disconnect, but that doesn't affect trigger-pull and this single-action automatic comes with a quite useable trigger out of the box.

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid27/p0aca792524bc10d49187029c32a9bb66/fd78507d.jpg

The guide rod is visible in this picture as well.

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid29/pe7b2c800a8991ceef6f1c8d46f0924e7/fd58a19f.jpg

Note: The Star BM's bbl comes with but one locking lug. Steel on Star pistols is traditionally "soft" compared to other handguns and one can see the heat-treated areas on the slides in many cases. Recoil springs are not so easily changed/replaced on these pistols and for these reasons I do NOT recommend much use of +P ammunition. None was used in today's test for that reason and the fact that spare parts are tough to find.

Shooting: The following rounds were fired today as they're commonly used by many 9mm shooters. Today, due to weather and wind, all groups were fired at 15 yards standing w/2-hand hold. All rounds are 10 rnd groups.

Ammunition: Two 115 gr ball standard pressure ball rounds were used, Winchester USA and Fiocchi. I also fired one group with Federal's legendary "9BP," their standard velocity 115 gr JHP.

Here are the results. Left to Right: Winchester, Fiocchi, and Federal.

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid29/p22bfebe96920aa687425ff4fc6b26058/fd58a01c.jpg

All of the rounds impacted slightly high and to the right. Part of that could've been me as I found the front sight somewhat hard to keep centered in the gun's "tight" rear sight notch. The gun was never intended as a target gun, but groups pretty darned well for its size and "adequate" sights.

Recoil was minimal. There were zero malfunctions and cases were tossed about 7 to 8' to the right and slightly forward from this handgun.

Observations: For a carry gun, there are many out there that are lighter and a bit smaller, however not based solely on this session, but some years of use, the Star BM does have reliability and decent accuracy. While it IS heavy by today's standards, it's also inexpensive and offers 9x19mm power in a Makarov-weight pistol that is slimmer and trimmer.
Again, I don't recommend +P in this pistol, but could sure understand a fellow wanting to test the gun with it and use it for carry and very rare shooting. I suspect that would be OK.

Hopefully, this report might be of interest for someone wanting a "car gun" or a defensive piece of at least "adequate" caliber that doesn't cost an arm and a leg.

Best.

[mtnbkr]

I shot my Star BM for the first time today. I ran a box of Winchester "white box" ammo through it. I had to failures to extract, but otherwise, it ran great. I'm typically a poor shot with "new to me" guns. Most handguns shoot to the left for me, as did this one. It was a bit high at 10yds. Here is the results of two mags into a target at 10yds.

http://home.mindspring.com/~mtnbkr/Target1.jpg

I think with some more practice, I can cut the group size in half or better. The trigger felt great. Coming from a DA revolver and semiauto world, it was quite a difference. The sights aren't bad for indoor shooting. If it continues to shoot high, I may cut the notch in the rear a tad deeper. I also need to drift the rear sight to the right a bit. I like this gun though, it is fun to shoot.

Chris

[axeman_g]

Does anyone know if a 1911 ambi safety can be added to the B or BM models?

[mtnbkr]

No parts interchange between 1911s and Stars based on what I've read multiple times.

Chris

[Mike Irwin]

Looks like it's going to be a fun gun for you, Chris.

You'll have to bring it to the range next time we go together so I can shoot it better than you... :D

[mtnbkr]

<grumble grumble> should've left your brakes disconnected and let you take the test drive alone... :D :neener:

Chris

[Mike Irwin]

OH GOD IT WAS HORRIBLE! I STEPPED ON THE BRAKES AND NOTHING HAPPENED!

Luckily I was able to slow down by sideswiping a silver Pathfinder, and come to a complete stop by smashing into the side of a black Altima...

Phew.

I wouldn't want to be the owner of those cars...

:)


Uh, why are you pointing that shotgun at me?

[mtnbkr]

I'm glad I don't own a Pathfinder. As for the Altima, that's what we bought it for.

Speaking of which, Michelle got an assist on a deer kill the other night. She popped a deer on rt28. Deer slide over to the other side of the road and was finished by another driver who didn't even bother to stop. Only thing broken on the Altima was a turn signal.

Gotta take her hunting this year... :D

Chris

[Mike Irwin]

It's a Toyota, they all look the same to me.

What is it, a Forerunner? It's not a Land Cruiser...

Glad to hear that she wasn't dinged.

Deer can do a LOT of damage to both cars and people.

[mtnbkr]

Harumph.

A Pathfinder is a Nissan, not a Toyota. You insult me sah, I demand satisfaction.

since I can't shoot anymore, we'll have to find another way to settle this

Yeah, she was lucky. She had just pulled of from the light when the deer jumped out of the darkness. :eek:

Last time she hit a deer, it did over a grand's worth of damage to her car. I tell ya, she's a better deer hunter than I am. :banghead:

Chris

[Mike Irwin]

You might be a redneck if you've ever hit a deer...


On purpose...


You want satisfaction?

Try sitting on a can of brake cleaner! :neener:


To get this completely back on topic (yeah, right...)

What ammo did you shoot the Star with? The whitebox hardball? Or was it white box JHP?

[AUTIGER04]

Concealed Carry Handguns 2004. Has an article starring "The Star BM 9mm".;) On your magazine rack NOW.

ps Thats the method I use for hunting also.:D

[Penman]

Teh safety on teh Star actually cams the hammer out of engagement with the sear, a better system than the 1911. If you take off the grips, be careful with the safety lever. On my PD, the grip kept the safety from moving to the point where the spring that provides the safety detent tension would be released. I think the same applies to the B series. If only Colt or Kimber would produce a 9mm on this pattern!

[santai]

;)

[Ant Mod]

Has anyone had problems running different kinds of ammuntion through their star? What has everyone had the best luck with?

[Stephen A. Camp]

Hello. Mine will absolutely not feed Remington Golden Sabers. It works fine with other ammo. I normally carry either Federal 115-gr std. pressure 9BP or Federal 124-gr Nyclad HP. It's worked fine with other ammo, but balks with the Golden Saber.

Best.

[mtnbkr]

Concealed Carry Handguns 2004. Has an article starring "The Star BM 9mm". On your magazine rack NOW.

That's one of the info sources that prompted my purchase. :)

Mike,

I'm using the stuff we got at the show that weekend. It's hardball.

Chris

[Mike Irwin]

Burned up a bunch of it through my High Power on Saturday...

When I get my PSP we'll schedule an afternoon at the range!

[santai]

I recieved my Star BM today. Took it to the range and liked how it handled. The magazines need to be pulled from the grip though. I had read Stephen Camp's post about removing the magazine disconnect, so I gave it a try. I still have to pull the magazine, with some force , to unseat it. Did I get a clunker ?

Thanks,

santai


:banghead:

[Ant Mod]

I still have to pull the magazine, with some force , to unseat it.

I have to do the same with one of my magazines even after taking out the magazine disconnect. However the other magazine I have literally shoots out when I hit the mag realse, so its more than likely your magazine.

[extremefishin00]

Are the newer Star pistols constructed of softer steel, or are they up to the present standards?

Chris

[mtnbkr]

Are the newer Star pistols constructed of softer steel, or are they up to the present standards?

Softer steel with spot hardening according to Stephen Camp's article(s). It shouldn't be a problem with standard pressure loads. Mine doesn't have any peening or damage to the internals that I've noticed in a quick teardown and cleaning.

I'm going to try and hit the Richmond gunshow this Saturday morning. If you want to meet up, I'll bring my Star so you can check it out.

Chris

[extremefishin00]

Hey Chris,

I won't be able to make it to the show saturday because of work:(, but I'm going to try to go there with the gf on sunday if I can make it back in time. Thanks for the offer though

Chris

[Stephen A. Camp]

Hello. I like the Star pistols, but really don't recommend much +P in those before the Firestar pistols. This would include the Model B, BM, BKS, BKM and others of that genre.

Best.

[wardog]

Went down to my local shop to pick up my BM. According to AIM, they are in "overall good condition". I think that description is pushing it. Man the finish is rough! Gun seems tight though. My dealer said he sold some that he got from SOG, and the condition was very good. Guess I should have paid the $150 they wanted instead of the $130 from AIM. Oh well, live and learn.

Anyone know what a rebluing costs? I thinking around $60-$75? Parkerizing maybe?

[Mike Irwin]

Wardog,

Why bother?

The BMs really strike me as pretty good candidates for the "beater gun of the year" award -- a gun you really don't mind if it gets absued and/or a little rusty...

[mtnbkr]

What Mike said, or....

A good way to learn how to renew a worn gun. Reblue it yourself. Make new grips for it, etc. That's what I plan to do. I'm going to use it for a platform for Novum Solutions' Blue Wonder cold blue. What I've read sounds good, now I want to see it in action, but not on any gun I care about. The kit is only $40 from Brownells. If I don't like the gun afterwards, well, it still functions and can't be any uglier than before.

I bought mine as a project gun. I want to see how nice I can make it look and learn how to work on 1911 style guns (yeah, I know it's not a 1911, but the basic functionality is similar).

Chris

[santai]

----Ant Mod---- Thanks, it is the magazines. I called AIM and they said if I send them my mags they'll send me replacements.

Has anybody used the Novum re-blueing product mtnbkr mentioned ?
That would be an inexpensive way to go. I also want to replace or restore the trigger. Mine is pretty beat up.
Anyone know of a replacement rear sight that would fit ?


santai

:rolleyes:

[wardog]

Mike,

I see your point. A "beater" is what I had in mind. OTOH, I think it just deserves better.

Chris,

I'm going to look into that do-it-yourself bluing kit. Sounds like a good project.

[Mike Irwin]

"I think it just deserves better."


You certainly can't argue with that.

How about Brownell's self-lubricating spray-on finish?

I've seen a couple of guns done with this stuff, and if you take your time and are careful, it looks really good.

[mrapathy2000]

home parkerizing is easy. if you want a step above that you can apply the brownells teflon moly bake on finish after you parkerise the parts.

I wouldnt waste the time or money on cold blueing or real blueing. parkerizing is cheap and easy to do and if you blast the parts with glass beeds 80-120grit the results will be nice. heck just glass beeding the parts leave nice flat finish.

[Ukraine Train]

For CCW, do you guys think that the Stars being single action only is a big disadvantage? I think I'd be a little nervous carrying it cocked even with the safety on.

[mtnbkr]

Plenty of people carry single action autos cocked and locked. SA Autos MUST be carried with the safety on if it is cocked. If you don't feel comfortable, don't do it. I don't.

Chris

[jacketch]

I picked up one at the show today in Richmond. It was a little rough around the edges but overall not bad for the price. Although I too bought it for a beater gun, I couldn't resist and reblued it when I got home. It's not perfect but I'm happy. If it shoots as well as everyone says I'll be pleased.

I always wanted to say "next time I go to the range I'm going to take a BM":D

[wardog]

Got a chance to shoot the new (to me) Star BM today. Didn't get a chance to do any formal accuracy tests, but it's a shooter. Good trigger, solid feel, and went bang every time using CCI Blazer and PMC FMJ. Even with the finish being rough, I consider it a good deal for $129.

[makarov1989]

I too just got one of these and fired it for the first time today. I had one FTE out of 100 rounds of Win ammo. I don't know why it jammed and I couldn't get it to do it again by either limp wristing it or holding it extra firm with both hands. I'm thinking that it hasn't been shot in at least 10 years and it may be working out some of the creaks. I cleaned and oiled it before I shot it but I went very, very light on the oil and may have missed some spots. It felt like the locking lug and the outside of the the bbl was bone dry when I took it apart to look for the cause of the one jam.

I still give a used gun 200 rounds to work out the bugs before I decide if it is reliable. If it jams again after another 100 rounds, I will look for a fix.

The good news is, it is a really accurate 9mm! It shot 3" to the left at 25' but it was putting them in a ragged hole that was less than an inch (center to center). It has one of the best triggers I have ever felt on a centerfire auto. The trigger is outstanding! It is light and crisp and beaks clean with zero takeup. I have felt other Star BM triggers that were not as good so I think I got an esp. good trigger. That is probably why I can shoot it so well. This trigger would put most Kimber and Colt 1911 triggers to shame!

I just got done "adjusting" my rear sight so I hope it is hitting dead on the next time I shoot the gun. For the little bit of money I paid for this gun, I think I got a deal. It is accurate and fun to shoot and is like a 9mm Colt Commander. I have always wanted a 9mm Commander but the price kept me from doing it on a gun that was only going to be used at the range.

[jacketch]

I ordered the Star BM firing pin (#725790, $13.35) and extractor (3715800, $16.05) from Numrich Gun Parts Corp. (866 686-7424 or www.e-gunparts.com ). They arrived in five days so now I have spare parts for this fine little pistol.

[AUTIGER04]

You found parts? I was holding off until later. But Now Im going to have to buy a Star!!;)

Anybody see the article in Handguns Annual 2004? Featuring Spanish pistols "Star" included. Nice read.;)

[santai]

I have a couple of questions.
1. How much disassembly is required to use one of the DIY home Parkerizing kits ?
2. Where would I take it to be sand blasted/glass beaded ?
3. Has anyone improved/replaced the sights on their BM ? If so, what did you do ?
Thanks.


santai

[makarov1989]

I second all of santai's questions.:)

[BevrFevr]

Lots of places that still "etch glass" for windows and stuff like that may be able to use one of their little sand blasters to do it.

just guessing though.

-bevr

[jacketch]

Some auto shops and most machine shops have sandblasters.

Today while waiting at the pharmacy for a prescription I read the article in Concealed Carry magazine ($9.99:eek: ) and they did a very good write up of the history of the Star pistols and the BM in particular. I'd like to find out more about the 10mm Ultrastar.

[santai]

Hey,
I'm looking for spare magazines for my Star BM. Numrich has them for $27.85 each :fire: I think I saw them somewhere for $12-$15, but can't find the site. Any suggestions ?

Thanks,

santai

[mtnbkr]

SOG had them for around $15 last time I looked.

Chris

[santai]

Thanks. I'll call SOG on Monday.

santai

[nvcdl]

I got a Star BM at a gunshow this weekend, picked out a nice one for $139.

Stripping it I notice that the window in the frame the slide stop goes looks has what appears to be a saw cut into it looks almost as if is was done as a field mod.

I know Colt did something similar with the Delta Elite to eliminate frame cracking in the area.

Do all BM's have this cut?

[Ant Mod]

Do all BM's have this cut?

Mine has it and I have no clue what it is. At first I thought it was a crack. However I then observed the same thing on other guns.

[mtnbkr]

Mine has it too.

BTW, mine was shooting very high at 10yds with Winchester value pack ammo. I used the emory wheel on my dremel tool to deepen the slot in the rear sight and widen it a bit. It brought my POI down a bit and cut the group size in half (I'm a horrible shot with semiautos, especially when the sights are hard to see). I need to cut it a touch deeper, but with some practice, I'll get decent groups out of it. I can't complain about this $140 gun otherwise.

Chris

[Matthew_Q]

Great you guys. Just great. Now you got me wanting ANOTHER pistol. What is a man to do around you guys???

I checked on AIM's website, and they don't show any more, so I checked Gunbroker, and found that a dealer up in Fort Worth has some, so I shot him an email. His price on GB was $144... I asked what his price would be and if he could hand pick a nice one for me. I'll just swing up there on some weekend soon. I'll find this thread and get some of the parts you guys found (at least one spare of each). If the pistol proves to be reliable, it may potentially be a carry peice...

Updates will be posted!

[mtnbkr]

Re: reliability

I keep having extraction problems with mine. Sometimes, it'll go 100+ rounds without a hitch, other times, it'll malfunction several times in 50 rounds. It was running good the other weekend. When I went to clean it, I detail stripped it and really cleaned the nooks and cranies. I paid special attention to the extractor and the groove it sits in, attempting to eliminate my 1 in 100 extraction issue. Now, it's 1 in 30 (at least for that session). Maybe I got it too clean :p Could have been a bad batch of ammo, but I didn't buy this gun to shoot expensive stuff through it. I'll try to pick up a new/used extractor in the future. We'll see...

Chris

[nvcdl]

Glad to hear others also have the cut - mine didn't appear new so I figured was done as a field mod to prevent frame cracking.

[jacketch]

Mine also has the cut in the side over the opening where the slide release goes. This looks standard and from what everyone reports, it appears it is.

Mine has been very reliable, 450 rounds without a hitch. The extractor looked like it had been replaced; it had a very new look to it. If you continue to have problems you might want to try the extractor (#3715800, $16.05) from Numrich Gun Parts Corp. (866 686-7424 or www.e-gunparts.com). This is an easy part to replace from reports. I think Stephen Camp may have had info on how to do this on a thread on the 1911Forum. I'll search and see if I can find it.

Check here for extractor info on the BM:
http://www.1911forum.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=26433&highlight=camp+star

[nvcdl]

They may be getting to the bottom of the barrel - at the Dale City Gunshow I managed to find one with about 85-90 finish and no major flaws. The same dealer had one with about 50% painted finish remaining and one with about 70% finish with a good amount of pitting on the slide.

[JERRY]

damn, i think maybe i should have not gotten my makarov and got a star bm instead...... same price, even cheaper, and ive always want a star bm. no kidding.

[Matthew_Q]

How is the take-down on one of these? Is it like a traditional 1911 with a guide rod? Is there some goofy thing that needs to be done?

I'm seriously thinking about getting one or two of these... I LOVE the 1911 and it's design, and I think the PERFECT carry pistol would be a scaled down 1911 in 9mm. (hint hint Colt and Kimber and SA, etc!)

n/m, I found an exploded diagram: http://stevespages.com/jpg/ipb-star-bm.jpg

Looks like the guide rod just screws out, then takes down like a traditional 1911...

[makarov1989]

I just recently shot my Star BM after adjusting the rear sight and I found that not only is it shooting to POA but it is also an amazingly accrate gun! I shot the first true one hole group of my life. I am talking about a 5 shot string all going through the same hole! Not a ragged hole but a 9mm sized hole! I saved the target and I will be taking a pic of it soon. I am so happy.

This gun actually outshot my S&W M-19 with a 6" bbl! I don't know if it could do it from a standing postion but I would be surprised after seeing what it can do from a rest. It has a great trigger and I think that is why it is so accurate.

[Terminus]

Aaaaaargh!!! I waited too long. Both SOG and AIM look to be sold out, judging by the fact that the BM's are no longer listed on their sites.

Next time, I'll seek forgiveness rather than permission from the wife.

[Terminus]

Oops. SOG still has them - just not listed on "handguns" page. Sorry.

[makarov1989]

SOG has them and they are on sale! One for $139 or two for $129. Get two, you won't regret it. For the price of an extra mag, firing pin and extractor, you can almost buy a extra gun!:what:

[jacketch]

"Looks like the guide rod just screws out, then takes down like a traditional 1911..."

You don't have to unscrew the guide rod.

After removing the magazine cycle the slide twice to ensure that the gun is unloaded. Pull the slide all the way back and lock. Remove the slide lock by first pressing from the opposite side of the gun and pull the slide off the front of the pistol. The GR and spring assembly can be lifted out of the slide. Move the barrel forward slightly and rotate the bushing to remove barrel/bushing.


I'm glad to hear others are pleased with their Star BM's. I am begining to think BM stands for Ballistic Machine:D

[Ant Mod]

Looks like the guide rod just screws out, then takes down like a traditional 1911...

it doesnt take down exactly like a typical 1911. If i ever get motivated I will scan the manual and the instructions on how to take it down.

The best i can explain it is this way...

Move the slide back and lock it with the safety. if you look there is an extra notch in the slide for this.

Then puch the slide lock mechanism out by pushing on the right side of the gun.

Once this is out, the slide can be moved forward and it slides off the frame.

To take the barrel out, you remove the guide rod and spring by pulling on it in the direction of the front so it clears the chamber, then remove.

Then rotate the barrel bushing until the lugs on it can allow it to clear the slide and pull off.

The barrel then slides out and you are done with the slide.

Everything on the frame is held on by pins and screws.

Its actually really easy and can be done in a few seconds.

[mtnbkr]

For those of you trying to replace the recoil spring, here's how you do it.

You have to find a way to grip the end that contacts the barrel bushing without doing any damage. I pushed the spring and follower down and wrapped some duct tape around it. Then, I grabbed the duct-taped end with a pair of pliers and turned the other end (the part that goes against the chamber end of the barrel) with an adjustable wrench and turned it off. It's threaded for it. I replaced the spring, screwed the end back on, removed the tape, cleaned it up with acetone (duct tape leaves mucho residue), and used extra fine sandpaper to polish out the few "tooth marks" left by the pliers. I haven't fired it yet, but I expect no problems.

BTW, the new spring was about an inch longer than the old one.

Chris

[Ant Mod]

Why did you replace the spring? Were you having problems and now are hoping this solves them? Just curios since I have a BM as well, I just cant cure my failure to extract at times problem.

[mtnbkr]

I want to see if it'll make it shoot a bit smoother. It shoots fine now, but I want to see if a new spring will make it shoot "softer".

Chris

[extremefishin00]

So, now that everyone's had a chance to play with their Stars, would you feel confident carrying it as a defensive weapon?

Chris

[Stephen A. Camp]

Hello. I've owned a Star Model B, BM, and Model 28 for quite a few years and have no problems toting any of them for serious purposes.

Best.

[Ant Mod]

So, now that everyone's had a chance to play with their Stars, would you feel confident carrying it as a defensive weapon?

Personally no. I bought one BM that would not extract at all, every shot failed. Took i tback and they gave me another one. About one round in two magazines fails to extract. I would not depend on this gun as a CCW or to defend myself.

[nvcdl]

I wouldn't heistate to use my Star as a defensive weapon. It seems to be very well made.

[Matthew_Q]

If you see my post about my BMs, one is tight, one is looser than a two dollar who... wait... it's just... loose.

The first one fires good and functions, but gets about 3 FTEs per 100 rounds. It feeds ball OK, but I haven't been able to try any others.

The loose pistol's extractor gets a GOOD grip on the shell. Based on how it throws a snap cap out compared to the other, the extractor is much better. I may try to swap them, and use the loose pistol as a parts source. I would like to have two up and running... but we'll see.
(BTW, the ejectors are solid and look like there's NO wear on them)

I also figured out why (partly) the loose pistol is loose. Recoil spring guide washer (see the figure I posted on page 4) is too thin. Basically, it doesn't space the guide rod assembly back far enough from the muzzle. If I can get the dang assembly APART, i might could find a washer that might fit the bill... In addition, the slide does have a some side to side play... pinching the slide might help. (how do you DO that anyway??) It will surely be a project....

[Matthew_Q]

HA... I found a simpler way to make the loose one tighter!!

I just took both apart and compared a couple things between them, and I noticed on the tighter pistol, the guide rod is screwed into the guide head, but not all the way! The loose pistol's rod is screwed in ALL THE WAY. If I can loosen it up a few turns, voila, instant tight. Get it to the right depth, and get some loctite in there. BAM. Fixed. Well, that, and pinching the slide to tighten it up....

kewl.