rebuilding a 1911

[chink]

I have an cheap 1911 which I bought 6 years ago as a 21st birthday present for myself. I didn't have money then and I still don't have money for a real quality pistol. What I do have is an early model Charles Daly 1911 that shoots decently but could probably use some work. After taking the whole thing apart early in the spring I thought Maybe I should redo all the springs. But then I thought, the barrel linkage pin doesn't too small for the hole (or the hole has become too big), the barrel probably has 7,000 rounds through it and should probably be replaced soon. That made me think, maybe I should just strip the whole thing down and and replace everything but the sites, because they aren't causing a problem. I don't see this being too difficult.
Any thing I should look out for?
Any vendors I should stay away from? or any vendor recommendations?

 

[skwang]

I have never priced out the parts required for rebuilding a 1911, but I would guess that quality components would get spend fast. Would it be possible to trade your tired 1911 and some cash for one that is in better shape? You would know you have a quality piece, and not have the headache of messing about and refitting an old (warn out?) gun. On the other hand rebuilding your 1911 could be a fun challenge.

skwang

 

[Jim Watson]

Assuming the gun works well enough to suit you, I think I'd put in an oversize link pin ($5.50 from Brownells, .154" or .156" diameter) and new springs and resume shooting. Barrel life should be way over 7,000 rounds, Elmer Keith notwithstanding. You can plow a lot of money into rebuilding an inexpensive gun like that and not have a lot to show for it. And it is not just a case of reassembling the gun with new guts, most good parts require knowhow and tools for fitting.