[Bob F.]

Got one, had some problems, maybe fixed (maybe). Should I trade it off? Anyone have much experience with the Rock Islands??

It's not my carry gun, have a Glock 19 for that!

[tomkatz]

Lots of discussion on them here...........tom

http://www.thehighroad.org/showthread.php?s=&threadid=40643

[10-Ring]

The RIA might be a nice first gun, but not one I'd look to as a base to build up a nice 1911.

[joshlm]

probably depends on what the problem is and what your expecting out of the gun.

[Bob F.]

OK, thanks for the replies, esp the ref to the other threads. Looked over the current threads before I posted. Made me feel better. Seems like differing opinions (LOL). I have the compact with Novak sights, beavertail safety, & Commander hammer. I widened the rear sight notch and smoothed the trigger face (don't like a grooved trigger).

Had it at the range with factory ammo-UMC IIRC. After 3rd shot the slide locked back, I thought. This gun has a full length recoil spring guide rod. The bushing had cracked and the spring and rod was all wadded up inside the spring bushing. Took 3 tries to get teh right part, ofc in Las Vegas, Nevada, even. Talk about a roll of the dice!! Later, had it jam back once again when the spring end protruded out the front. The bushing and slide section that encloses it is now very slightly out of round. I wonder if I had the spring in wrong the first time. My old series 70, GM Colt never had that problem, 'course it didn't have a full length guide rod either!

Happy with the functioning and accuracy. Actually won the first combat match I shot with it, night match on "Main Street. Did have to smooth some edges on the lug, link and guide rod end to keep from getting blood all over the gun after field stripping. My camera's not working at the moment so you'll have to take my word on looks. Actually, found out I like the smooth wood grips and frame. Really sweaty hands might make me rethink that.

Again, thanks for the feedback. Think I'll shoot it some more.