[Retired AF CE]

Serious 1911 collectors are only interested in original-condition pistols. Restorations rarely ever rise above the level of a shooter-grade example. Exceptions are the rare guns like an early Colt Navy or a Singer. Having said that, it's your pistol so do whatever you want to it if it will improve the pride of ownership.

I was thinking about getting a second slide that was fully hardened so I can safely shoot it. I wouldn’t think that would be a problem.
What do you think?