Israel Arms M-5000 1911

[Pegwedge]

Howdy folks. I've had the opportunity to pick up an Israel Arms M-5000 1911 at the pawn shop I work at. I've never owned a 1911 before but I can get this one for a decent price so I thought I might take the leap. I've been researching and googling everything I can about before I pull the proverbial trigger, but I still have a few unanswered questions.

From other sources I've found that some were made in Israel and some in the Phillipines. Apparently the ones made in Israel are supposed to have the Star of David stamped in the frame and slide, which mine does. However, the Blue Book we have says nothing about them being made in Israel, just the Phillipines. I realize the Blue Book isn't the end all be all source of information on guns, but it made me question it.

Also, I plan on this being a project. I'm not going to throw hundreds of dollar into a $300 gun by any means, but I was wondering if anyone knew if standard 1911 parts would be interchangeable.

So does anyone have any experience with these guns? Thanks in advance folks.

 

[Realbigo]

The Isrealies had a fair share of pistols made in the Phillipines, some 1911, and HiPowers were sold here as Charles Daly. I bought a CD 1911 about 5 years ago despite the negative comments I heard and read, because the one I examined seemed to be just fine. I never had a single issue after a good 200rd break in, and only replaced the internals, because I got a good deal on Colt Springs and parts. It still has the same frame, and slide, and it's still my favorite pistol. If I ever see one of their HiPowers for a good price, I'll jump all over it.