Ok, I just applied for my FID card and a pistol purchase permit yesterday. (I live in the PRNJ) I'm relatively new to firearms and would appreciate any help anyone can give me. Before I buy I do plan on firing a .45 ACP 1911 to make sure that is really what I want but at this point, I really like the history of the gun, the aesthetics (not my main reason but it helps) and the ergonomics. (I have an airsoft version right now which is supposed to be a 1:1) I have a friend who has one so I'll have to see if we can setup a time to go shooting to make sure the .45 ACP is right for me.
That said, I initially discounted it because when I was looking at them, I first saw prices of greater than $1k... a little out of my budget. I then stumbled upon the Springfield MilSpec and GI model which seemed to be more in my price range. I was thinking something in the $600-$700 range though could probably go a little higher if there was good reason to. (But I'd rather not go above $900)
I'm leaning towards the MilSpec because of the high-profile three dot sights. I know from shooting my airsoft version that the old style sights can be a pain. I also figure the polished feed ramp and lowered and flared ejection port wouldn't be a bad thing to have either.
I also wouldn't mind tinkering... I have a general tendency to take things I own apart and fiddle with them and I have a feeling that I would probably do the same with this. The one thing I was thinking of trying was to fit a beavertail grip safety on it. Think this is do-able for someone with no metal working experience? (I've read that I may have to do some filing) I've done woodworking, just no metalwork.
So does this sound like a good plan or should I choose something else as a beginner? Should I look at another 1911? I'm open to suggestions and from what I understand, I may have about a 4 month wait to make my decision. :banghead:
And yes, I know, I know... I should get out of NJ... I'm working on it.
That said, I initially discounted it because when I was looking at them, I first saw prices of greater than $1k... a little out of my budget. I then stumbled upon the Springfield MilSpec and GI model which seemed to be more in my price range. I was thinking something in the $600-$700 range though could probably go a little higher if there was good reason to. (But I'd rather not go above $900)
I'm leaning towards the MilSpec because of the high-profile three dot sights. I know from shooting my airsoft version that the old style sights can be a pain. I also figure the polished feed ramp and lowered and flared ejection port wouldn't be a bad thing to have either.
I also wouldn't mind tinkering... I have a general tendency to take things I own apart and fiddle with them and I have a feeling that I would probably do the same with this. The one thing I was thinking of trying was to fit a beavertail grip safety on it. Think this is do-able for someone with no metal working experience? (I've read that I may have to do some filing) I've done woodworking, just no metalwork.
So does this sound like a good plan or should I choose something else as a beginner? Should I look at another 1911? I'm open to suggestions and from what I understand, I may have about a 4 month wait to make my decision. :banghead:
And yes, I know, I know... I should get out of NJ... I'm working on it.
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