Narrowing it doen

[GeneH]

Narrowing it down; MIM

Hello,

Quite a few folks chimed in when I asked which 1911 they would get with two separate budget options: $600 and $1000.

The below were people's choices. Now the new question: To your knowledge, which of these use metal injection molding for the main parts? From what I read, all RIAs and the STI Spartan are using MIM parts. Also, from what I read, the Colts and DWs seem to not use MIM parts, but I am not sure.

I am not asking your opinion on whether I should or should not worry about MIM parts. I simply want a short answer, like, "from your list, you are correct, only the three mentioned use MIM parts." Or, "XXX also uses MIM in the frame."

Rock Island Tactical (MIM parts - yes)
Rock Island Match (MIM parts - yes)
STI Spartan (MIM parts - yes)

Springfield Armory Mil-Spec
Springfield Armory GI45
Springfield Armory Loaded
Dan Wesson Classic Commander Bobtail (the "CBOB")
Dan Wesson Pointman 7
Colt M1911 WWI Reproduction
Colt Series 70 Reproducion
STI Trojan
Para GI Expert

Thank you very much,
Gene

 

[GeneH]

well, I re-read the forum rules and didn't see anything forbidding bumping threads. So I am bumping this because I really would like to know the answer

 

[loop]

To my knowledge no one uses MIM on the frame or slide. I could be wrong, of course.

But it is the small parts for the most part that are MIM.

My issues are that if you buy a 1911 you want standard 1911 parts to fit. That will not be the case with Springfields. There are a number of parts that are out of spec.

If it were up to me I'd buy one of the Colts. There are no questions about MIM or cast or being built to spec. Resale value is also much higher. You won't lose a dime if you buy a Colt. Anything else is to some degree, a gamble.

And, to all the Dan Wesson fans - I really like them too. They just don't have a rampant Colt on the side.

 

[ugaarguy]

All STI pistols use some MIM internal parts. Para uses MIM small parts and investment cast frames & slides. Most Colts, other than the ones you listed, actually do use some MIM small parts.

The vast majority of the Springfields use MIM internals. Springfield's frames and slides are forged by IMBEL of Brazil, and they're absolutely top notch. Yes, the frame tangs are a little shorter so you have to use a slightly different radius (.220" vs .250") on beaver tail grip safeties, but all the major makers offer their beaver tail grip safeties both ways.