Aluminum 1911 frame source?

[rbernie]

It doesn't look like either Essex or Caspian offer aluminum-based 1911 frames. What are my choices for a frame source if I want to craft an alloy-framed Commander in 9mm?

 

[Jim Watson]

Les Baer.

 

[rbernie]

Yeah, I looked at Les Baer, too. The web site only shows a AL-frame with a 45ACP feedramp and no custom line item to mod that.

Do you know if they offer the AL Stinger in a 9mm cut?

 

[Mgraff]

you could have it cut for a ramp barrel to get rid of the .45 feed ramp.

 

[rbernie]

Now *there's* an idea I hadn't thought of - thanks.

 

[Dean Taylor]

I have 3 Alluminum Caspian 1911 frames (new). One is a .38 Super and the other 2 are .45. I will have to think about if I would sell one. If you do not come up with another source feel free to email me. They are easier to work on than Titanium.

Dean
[email protected]
410-952-7848

 

[Mgraff]

rbernie-
a ramped barrel might be perferable if you are shooting hot loads in 38 super or 9x23 or any other "hot" 9mm type caliber due to the full case support they offer. Just a thought.

Dean ---
If you want to part with a .45 AL frame let ME know! I'd be very interested. Good luck with the new Patriot class, BTW the Shortsword is AMAZING!!!

Thanks
Mark

 

[stans]

Ramped barrels in aluminum receivers are also a good idea if you are shooting hollowpoint ammo. The sharp edges where the jacket meets the hollow cavity can scratch and gouge the aluminum feed ramp. Another solution is the installation of a steel feed ramp insert.

 

[rbernie]

Thanks to all for the feedback - I think that y'all are on to something here with the ramped barrel idea.

Dean - please PM me if you decide you'd like to sell one of the frames. Thanks....

 

[halvey]

You may want to just buy a used aluminum 1911 and sell off the topend. Sometimes guys get a lot just for the top.

 

[rbernie]

That was actually Plan B - buy a mass-produced AL-framed Commander and do the work to make it into a 9mm. That would *still* be less money than buying a Les Baer frame and doing the same conversion.

I wonder if a Caspian Ti-frame is worth the look-see? I've heard of issues with the Ti galling in some fashion?

 

[Jim Watson]

I went the Mixmaster route. I wanted a light weight full size 9mm 1911, I thought it would be The Answer to IDPA ESP. But Caspian had quit making aluminum receivers and Les didn't want me making a smallbore out of one of his. So I bought a Springfield Lightweight .45 and a Loaded 9mm and swapped uppers. I now have my 30 oz 5 inch 9mm and a functional stainless .45. It took some gunsmithing beyond the upper and ejector exchange, but they both now shoot. Project made possible by the fact that both SA LW .45 and all SA 9mm have integral ramp barrels. Not my favorite thing, and they were not the same in detail shape and dimension, but FLG handled it.

I know of one titanium Caspian receiver in regular use. It hasn't galled but I don't know what the finish is on steel slide and titanium receiver. It is only about 5 ounces lighter than steel, which is less difference than aluminum makes.

 

[HSMITH]

I wonder when Essex stopped making Al frames? I build a couple in the early 90's. Not a great frame by any stretch but they were workable.........

 

[rbernie]

According to an email I just got from them, they stopped making them about two years ago.

 

[BluesBear]

Or find a used Colt LW Commander in 9mm or .38 super and build from there.

There are still quite a few of them floating around out there since they made them for about 40 years.

 

[stans]

I wonder when Essex stopped making Al frames? I build a couple in the early 90's. Not a great frame by any stretch but they were workable.........

I can think of two reasons. First, Essex quality was lacking, especially in past years, and that hurts sales. Second is durability, aluminum 1911 frames do not last as long as steel, so there were probably complaints about the aluminum frames.

 

[rbernie]

Or find a used Colt LW Commander in 9mm or .38 super and build from there.

I've seen (and bought) Combat Commanders in 9mm, but I've never seen a LW Commander in 9mm. I just presumed that they weren't out there.