First 1911 .45

[JRX]

Hi,
I've just purchased my 1st .45 - and also first 1911 style pistol, I’ve got a couple of Glocks but have always wanted a .45 and especially a 1911 style .45 which i now by chance got for a bargain.
This is a 70 series Mk IV Government Model, stock original, pistol. It is old with wear and tear.
What mods would you suggest I make to turn it into a very reliable and accurate shooter?

 

[mrbro]

It may already be, I'd shoot it first then decide. If you must spend some more money right now, extra mags are always good.

 

[JRX]

True - the seller did say that it shot "dead straight"... but I'd still like to "pimp" it a bit... make it look nice although accuracy and reliability is priority.

 

[gohogs93]

No way to know whether or not it's reliable until you shoot it yourself but if we assume it is, then get a nice set of grips. Best and cheapest way to "pimp" a 1911. if you want it to look more modern then you could get a skeletonized hammer and trigger and also a beavertail grip safety. but that starts to get pricey very quickly.

 

[2wheels]

Shoot it! Shoot the heck out of it before you even dream of "pimping" it out.

Once you know the gun inside and out you'll have a better idea of what you want to do to it, if anything.

If you go out and slap a bunch of aftermarket parts on the gun before knowing the gun, there's the chance you might actually cause reliability issues. You'll end up blaming the gun and not yourself for modifying it.

 

[JRX]

I hear what you are saying and that is what I'm planning on doing, was thinking of putting at least 2,000 round through it to get a "feel" for the gun. I will however have to buy mags as i bought it with only 1.

 

[2wheels]

That's good to hear. I really can't tell you what mods to do, that depends on you and what you want.

I personally haven't modified any of my 3 1911s, I don't like to modify my guns unless I see a clear need for it, but that's just me.

 

[NMGonzo]

Used patina on a good running gun is nothing to be ashamed off.

 

[Furncliff]

These look good and make a big difference in control.

http://www.pachmayr.com/american-legend-grips.php

 

[mrbro]

Mine wear these.

http://www.pachmayr.com/signature-grips-wo-backstraps.php

Utilitarian, but effective.

 

[kyletx1911]

Used patina on a good running gun is nothing to be ashamed off.

here here

 

[dewalt-2]

First thing to do is give it a fresh set of springs. A new extractor wont hurt, but you'll have to tune it. Check the barrel bushing fit, if it's really loose get a new one and have it fitted.
These things will get you the best reliability/accuracy. After that, the sky's the limit on modifications. Personally, I'd leave a 70 Series alone, with the exception of a sight change if you don't like the original setup. Next is magazines, original Colt and Metalform work well for me. Best of luck, you have a fine pistol.

 

[Nacho Libre]

Nice buy on the first 1911. If the Colt is all original/stock, I would keep it the way it is if it shoots good.