what kinds of 1911 parts can i tweak?

[Quadkid]

Hey all,

I was wondering what kinds of things i could do to my older Springer 1911 Standard (comparable to the GI or mil-spec) that doesnt require any gunsmithing? I have knowledge in metal working, but id rather not mess with the gun if i dont have to.

Examples of things i would want to change are new backstrap (checkered, maybe a mag well), extended slide release/retaining pin, and maybe a SS barrel bushing. Can these be done with minimal amounts of fitting?

Also, i saw a company sells compensators that just replace the barrel bushing. Are these reliable at all? Worth it? Effective? I mainly use mine as a target gun, but also keep is on my nigh stand for PD.

thanks

Sean

 

[rcmodel]

All of the things you mentioned are basicaly drop-in parts.

Things that require fitting include the hammer, sear, thumb safety, and grip safety.
And of course match barrels & bushings.

There is no good reason to replace your barrel bushing with a stainless "drop-in" one unless you get a match bushing and fit it to the barrel & slide.

Extended slide stops often cause more problems then they cure.
The standard slide stop works just as designed if you use your left thumb to operate it as the new mag slams home.

The drop-in barrel bushing comps are mall-ninja crap.
The .45 ACP doesn't run enough muzzle pressure to really make a comp of that type effective. And the ones I have seen are sloppy loose all the way around.

rc

 

[Drail]

Once again rcmodel tells it like it is. +1

 

[Quadkid]

hey, i appreciate all the info. Looks like Ill be saving money. hah.