Custom 1911 Build Frame/Slide Question

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kostyanj

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I'm looking to build myself a 1911 and was wondering which frame/slide manufacturer to go with. I've been looking at Caspian arms as I've heard that name thrown around a lot. Is there something better?

For now this is going to be a range gun with the possibility of becoming a competition gun later on. I was thinking of making it in either 45 (to be true to 1911) or 9mm but I'm leaning towards 45.

Any help/input would be appreciated.

Thanks
 
Are you a gunsmith, or are you getting a gunsmith to build it for you?

If you are having a gunsmith build it for you, I suspect your gunsmith would have a preference for what parts to select. I would let him choose the parts unless you have a particular part you must have.

If you are planning on building this yourself, a word of warning...the 1911 is not a Glock and it is not an AR. Parts will not snap into place. There are no drop in parts on a 1911. Expect file or grind every part in order to get it to fit.

If you are still intent on proceeding on your own, this article may be helpful.

http://how-i-did-it.org/1911-project/

You may want to read the "Lesson's Learned" section first.
 
I'm two years into my first 1911 build. Caspian parts are the way to go. They are closer to got than the mutt type builds.
 
Be aware that Caspian caters to pistolsmiths. That means that some of the specs (where holes are drilled) might be a bit off, because they know that a custom smith will know how to correct for the variances. This bit SIG in the rear when they sourced their 1911 frame and slides from Caspian when they started production of their GSR.

For a first build, I'd highly recommend a functioning 1911 to start with and adding whichever up grades you're interested in...maybe something in the mid-priced range like a Springfield TRP or Range Officer.

I've also heard good things about Fusion kits where they offer a fitted barrel as part of the kit
 
Be aware that Caspian caters to pistolsmiths. That means that some of the specs (where holes are drilled) might be a bit off, because they know that a custom smith will know how to correct for the variances. This bit SIG in the rear when they sourced their 1911 frame and slides from Caspian when they started production of their GSR.

For a first build, I'd highly recommend a functioning 1911 to start with and adding whichever up grades you're interested in...maybe something in the mid-priced range like a Springfield TRP or Range Officer.

I've also heard good things about Fusion kits where they offer a fitted barrel as part of the kit

I'm going to be doing the build myself.

So from your post, I guess you're recommending fusion over Caspian?
 
So from your post, I guess you're recommending fusion over Caspian?

If I remember right, Fusion sells the kit with a pre fitted frame to slide and barrel. You add everything else. Probably better idea if this is your first build. I hear the barrel is a PITA to fit...
 
I would choose Caspian over Fusion but if you want to build a really nice 1911 go with a Baer frame and slide. You will be amazed at the result.
 
I would choose Caspian over Fusion but if you want to build a really nice 1911 go with a Baer frame and slide. You will be amazed at the result.
Would you recommend having them fit their barrel as well?
 
So from your post, I guess you're recommending fusion over Caspian?
I'm not sure where you're reading that.

I don't have enough experience to recommend the Fusion kit, but I have enough experience with Caspian parts to know that I wouldn't be able to make the needed adjustments when the parts aren't within normal specs. After having seen what it takes to correctly fit a barrel in a 1911, I wouldn't attempt it at all.

What I'm recommending is starting with a working 1911
 
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