4in Upper on a fullsize frame 1911??

[AF_INT1N0]

Hey All,

I was considering replacing the the 5'' slide on a springfield Armory 1911A1 loaded to have a 4'' slide.

I also wanted to refinish it..

What would I need to do to replace the upper on a 1911??

 

[10-Ring]

I think you could do that but...as with the commander sized 1911s, the dust cover is a tad shorter than the gov't models, thereby precluding your from being able to interchangeably use your slides....i think

 

[ugaarguy]

Not sure on the specifics, but Old Fuff explained to me that the internal dimensions are signifigantly different when I asked a similar question. So the short answer is no; gov't slides on gov't frames, and commander slides on commander frames - unless you get the gov't frame cut for a commander slide.

 

[SnWnMe]

The dust cover is shorter on the 4" IIRC.

 

[Magnumite]

I purchased a full size frame pistol with 4" upper way back. It was not a well done conversion. I corrected it, got it running and let the top end go. It is now a full size gun and runs like a top.

Long story short, not a good idea unless you really know what to do.

The front of the rails on a 4" frame gun are set back more.
The barrel lower locking lugs are shaped differently and the outside barrel is relieved back farther, closer to the chamber.
I believe the slide recoil spring tunnel back face is set farther forward on the slide along with the
grooves in the slide.
The barrel bushing is shorter.
Shorter recoil spring guide and plug.
Shorter, stronger recoil spring.

If you want a 4" 1911, a Colt 1991 is a good price/dollar. I'd go that route first.