Thoughts on getting an extra 1911 barrel.

[357mag357]

I am looking to get an extra barrel for my Smith & Wesson 1911. I know the owners manual states I should only replace it with a factor barrel but what are your thoughts? I am sure S&W has to say that in the owner manual. So if I can replace it what brand of barrel should I get? I have the 1911 with a 5 inch barrel with fixed sights. Thanks.

http://www.smith-wesson.com/webapp/...selected=tech&isFirearm=Y&parent_category_rn=

 

[Jim Watson]

Are you willing to pay a gunsmith to fit it, or have the knowhow to DIY?
Modern made 1911 mutants are not as interchangeable as real USGI weapons and drop-in parts do not always do so.

If the answer is yes, my gunsmith prefers Kart.

But why?

 

[357mag357]

One to shoot lead and the other the shoot unleaded.

 

[weisse52]

One to shoot lead and the other the shoot unleaded.

?????

Do have concerns that shooting lead is going to damage the barrel in some way?

I shoot both in my 1911's without any issue, and have for well over 30 years.

 

[rcmodel]

One to shoot lead and the other the shoot unleaded.

Thats Crazy Talk there!

All you have to do is clean it once and awhile.

Good lead bullet loads should not lead the barrel at all.

We've shot thousands of rounds through 1911 Match guns with no leading.

If you have money to burn on an extra barrel, buy practice ammo!

rc

 

[2nd 41]

We've shot thousands of rounds through 1911 Match guns with no leading.
If you have money to burn on an extra barrel, buy practice ammo!

I agree with this. Enjoy what you have. Wear it out and then replace it with a new factory barrel. You will most like sell or trade the pistol before it wears out.

 

[BlindJustice]

FWIW - I have a S&W 1911 5" Bbl. stainless steel w/fixed sights. I also have a Bar-Sto barrel in .400 CorBon "Drop In" made for a Colt 1911.
I got the link set #1-#5 from Wilson Combat - #3 being the standard
length, #1&#2 shorter, #4&#5 longer - none match up with the
barrel to slide release/lock pin. So, I've got the Bar-Sto
shelved until I get a Colt Series 70 for a project 1911.

Just my experience,

As far as I know, S&W puts an excellent barrel in the gun
stock.

For the O.P. - buy a .45 cal Lewis Lead Removal kit.

Randall

 

[rcmodel]

I say again.

Properly loaded lead bullet .45 ACP ammo won't lead the barrel.

rc

 

[357mag357]

Lets put the leaded and unleaded bullets aside. If you were going to replace the barrel would you stick with a factory barrel or an aftermarket? If aftermarket what brand does anyone recommend? Jim W likes Kart. Any others?

 

[2nd 41]

I'd use a factory replacement. I'm satisfied with what's in there now. I'd do it again. Also basing that on the fact it will simply drop in and I can DIY.
EDIT...looks like you bought a quality 1911. Invest in a action job and shoot the crap out of it.

 

[putteral]

I have never had any leading in any of my .45's and I only shoot cast!
Agree totally with rcmodel!