Question on Norinco 1911

[Nordeste]

Yes, yes... I know. That horse's already been beaten up some. And believe me, I've done my part and read a bit about it. I know the goods and bads already.

Facts, I can get a NIB .45 ACP 1911 for some 330€, the "Sport" model, with beavertail, three-dot sights, extended mag release, skeletonized hammer and trigger. Hard to resist. I know they're made from quality steel, they make a good base for custom guns, etc. I even read something about making sure it was made in China and not in Turkey. Looks like the Chinese ones are the good ones. And I've been yearning for a 1911 .45 ACP for a long time. I want one. I want it bad. I deserve it.

What concerned me was that I also heard something about some units having locking problems when going into battery that had something to do with the slide-to-barrel fit. Now, that's a different animal. I have never bought a gun without having it in my hands beforehand, and even though I can order this pistol online and have it delivered to my nearest police station (where they'd take care of the paperwork), I think I'll find an excuse to get to Madrid (where the gun shop is and some four hours drive away) and actually see the pistol I'll buy.

Now, the questions. Apart from looking for the obvious rattling noises when shaking the pistol up and down, what other things should I pay attention to, tests or checks to be done, or symptoms to look for, so as to make sure that I won't get a lemon?.

 

[Old Fuff]

Several years ago there were some (but by no means all) Norinco 1911 style pistols that had a problem with the barrel that resulted in a headspace problem. Over time and use this caused the recoil lugs on the barrel to batter and peen the matching slots in the slide. The recommended solution was to have the headspace checked, and if the slide would close on a "no-go" gauge buy a new barrel if the slide wasn't badly worn.

This was substantually covered in various threads in this forum, and likely can be found using out search feature and the key words "Norinco" and "headspace". (leave out the " " ).

Shortly after all of this happened our goverment prohibited further imports from China, but for different reasons. Consequently I have not kept up on developments, but presume they corrected the problem. However if they haven't the issue is serious.

 

[BCRider]

Here in Canada we can easily get new Norinco 1911's. And all you've said is true. But unfortunately it's equally true that the quality control isn't all that tight. So while chances are good that you'll get one that is proper in most ways there is still a 1 in 3 to 1 in 5 risk of getting one with a tight or loose slide to frame fit. They are what they are.

But if you're willing to get one and run the risk that you'll have to get some smithing on it to fine tune things then you'll end up with a great gun after the dust settles.