The answer is 1911...or is it?

[Rikkijustmike]

I have a friend that built a 1911 out of GI parts. He bought a receiver, but I guess he Johnny Cashed the rest from Uncle Snuffy.

What are your opinions of a weapon like this? I think I'm going to buy/trade for this. Please let me know what you'd be willing pay if you were in my shoes...

 

[RP88]

we'd need to know features, brand of parts, how much it has been used, and its overall condition first. It can be anywhere between $300 to $3,000 depending on what 1911 and what features it has.

 

[Rikkijustmike]

Spitballing

He says that he fired like two magazines through it after he built it. Other than the receiver, he says that all of the parts are GI colt.

The gun is pristine. I looked at it briefly and held it. No rattle. The magazines that he is including are new as well. Nothing fancy as far as sights or other upgrades. Pretty much plain Jane...

 

[Ruggles]

Sounds "iffy" to me. I mean a homemade 1911 out of stolen parts from the government just oes not sound like a "deal". On the other hand if the price is great and you are willing to task the risk then.......

 

[SSN Vet]

it all depends on ..

1. the quality of the parts he used

&

2. the quality of his workmanship.

could be a Frankenbuild

could be right up there with the big name customs

whatever you do... learn how to function check the safety features on a 1911 and make sure the gun is not an accident waiting to happen.

 

[Strahley]

I'd rather buy a $399 Rock Island than that Frankenbuild

 

[PigButtons]

Have you shot it yet?

If he won't let you shoot it first, I'd pass. Unless of course you are a master smith or something like that. Getting the timing of the barrel lugs just right is not for the novice. Yea 1911's are supposed to be made of interchangeable parts, but some fitting is usually required.

A new Rock Island that will work out of the box, (or the company will fix it free, and they have one of the best CS out there) is about $500 NIB.

So I'd shoot at least a box through it or look elsewhere.

 

[SSN Vet]

View attachment InspectionChecklist.pdf

here's a used 1911 inspection check list that includes the major function checks

 

[czrami9]

I agree with the Rock Island comment. Items that are meant to handle small explosions and stay together....I prefer to know they came from a proven manufacturer.

 

[Rikkijustmike]

Went and shot it today. Great shooting weapon. Got a lot of compliments at the range. The guy knows what he's doing. He's not quite a master gunsmith, but he did a GREAT job in construction. Got the gun shop owner to check it out by asking what he could sell me. He told me that I should get better sights, but everything else was preference. I'll try to post a pic soon.

I traded my Springfield XD 9 Sub Compact and $100 for it. I'm happy with the deal. I'm going to finish my box of ammo in the morning and then clean and oil it.

 

[Blakenzy]

he says that all of the parts are GI colt.

No rattle.

2+2=5?

 

[Gunfighter123]

BTW , Colt WAS NOT the only one making parts for G.I. guns from 1911 - 1950s.