1911 life span

[Blakenzy]

How many standard pressure rounds is a USGI m1911-a1 expected to last? On average that is. Assume spring replacement is done when necessary. And, what happens to one when it reaches is end? Does it just blow up or what?

 

[Dobe]

Without rebuilding, you may get 100-150K. I've heard of more.

Signs of fatigue are cracked frame and or slide, and worn lugs.

 

[mljdeckard]

remember, the government never bought any new 1911 frames after WWII. My arms room still had them in 1992. It's just a matter of upkeep. I am no expert on how many of them cracked and died, but I have to imagine it wasn't many, or the government would have bought more of them between 1945 and 1986.

 

[10-Ring]

If you're shooting standard pressure rounds and you change out springs every 10,000 rounds, you'll have that gun for a LONG LONG LONG time