1911 9mm conversion easier but expensive

[JPG]

I recently purchased a RIA 38 Super to join the others in my 1911 family. My intent in buying a lower priced GM was to use it a a learning platform to make upgrades to the pistol. One of my goals was to create a 38 Super/9mm swappable 1911.

I recently sold one of my 1911s and I had cash burning a hole in the pocket and I was looking for 9mm stuff.

I purchased a genuine Colt product complete with box and manuals - a 9mm conversion unit. It is beautiful, dark Colt blue, with all Colt parts.

My first test fits were basically successful. The unit fit my S70 GC without a problem but the ejector is a std 45 size. It fit my 1991 SS Commander with out a problem, but a dust cover gap.

The fit to the RIA 38 Super frame was a little more problematic. The ejector nose was tweaked more toward the centerline causing a drag, so I straightened it and the slide slipped on. I thought this was the end, but no it was not. The RIA thumb safety would not engage, it hits the slide. I look in my parts box, I have a Brown extended safety, a little work and it works fine. The sear is blocked without movement and it snicks into place. The last item is the slide overhangs the frame a little.

Range testing soon.

The expensive part is the conversion cost me more that the complete pistol. The offsets are that the conversion has good sights, the finish is great and it's all Colt.

 

[schmeky]

Good luck. I did basically the same thing, but bought an Essex slide and drop in 9mm barrel. Later upgraded to a Match barrel.

The biggest problem I have had is with extractors. I finally broke down a bought "Colt" extractor and now mine shoots great. Mine will feed anything and now it seems as though the extraction issues I've had in the past are solved.

Excellent way to practice, practice, practice, with more affordable 9mm ammo. The 1911 makes for a light recoiling 9mm platform. Let us know how it shoots.