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Build kit

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3.6K views 22 replies 13 participants last post by  Korum  
#1 ·
Since TISAS will market a build kit for sale, how about TISAS make a video using their build kit, to show how it is done and what tools you really need for this specific kit. Not everyone is an expert or possesses lathes micrometers etc. Not all are looking to make a 2 or 3 k gun. Yes I know you can buy a built one for that price or less. That is not the issue but give a guy with average ability with some tools and average chance to build a 1911x
 
#2 ·
That would be cool, but Tisas 1911s are standard spec guns. There's dozens of videos showing how to do everything with them already. Also, fitting is a piece by piece affair. Different for each project. If there's any minor fitting needed there won't be a way to demonstrate that in a single video, and again, how to do everything is already out there.
 
#3 ·
My point is use this kit, show how to do it. Then someone like me can say, nope don’t have the tools, talent or time to build this. I know of other videos, but use this specific kit. And if you need an expensive lathe or micrometer or whatever, you are not surprised.
 
#4 ·
As the frame is 100% you won’t be doing much to it. You might need some lapping compound to make the slide move correctly. Some sand paper , small files , stones , you would need a 1/16 punch a 1911 fitting block small hammer small tools like screwdrivers and misc. a good caliper would be a good idea. Some light oil. And a good knowledge of how the parts fit together in a 1911. And if you get stuck a good camera to take pictures of the problem and post them on this site for helpful information. Don’t expect it to just fall together. And when it’s done and time for a live fire test. 1 expect there to be bugs. 2 Start out with one repeat one round in your magazine chamber aim fire check for proper functions. 3 Next load 2 repeat 2 rounds in your magazine chamber aim fire check for proper functions aim fire second round Check for proper functions. Warning building 1911‘s can become very addictive. Don’t be afraid to try it’s a great hobby. 1911’s Forever.
 
#5 ·
I am a rank and file amateur but after 3 years of learning more and more I can build a decent pistol. I started by trying to tune extractors! Then the next thing, and the next... After learning to peen and refit frame to slide for less rattle, I imagine having a Caspian setup to fit will be gravy on the biscuit! There is enough information here on how to fit damn near anything. There are tons of skilled persons and utter pros here that are more than willing to guide and instruct in damn near any aspect of the 1911. I have many multi-page threads of fitting extractors, sears, grip safeties, barrels, etc. that started because I asked a question. It is an addiction and I wish I had found this 20 years ago! I told my wife that I wanted a high end 1911 for my retirement. Still do, but my goal is to build a $10,000 1911 myself. I have ten years to learn for that time! LOL.

Start with a good base gun. Like a Tisas - my best started as a on sale 320 buck A1 Service Special that ran fine after extractor tuning. I decided to build it up. It is an amazing pistol now! Not perfect by any means, I made some small errors on the grip safety, but I learned tons and tons. Don't rush, get tools, enjoy it, and don't be afraid to ruin a part - you will.


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#7 ·
The Tisas Builder Kits require an intermediate working knowledge of gunsmithing techniques and understanding of the 1911 platform to assemble. Fitting of the frame and slide will require attention to detail and special tools or supplies. We recommend 800-grit lapping compound followed by Flitz polishing compound for fitting the frame to the slide.


Frame/Slide Lapping Info:


The slide and frame should fit with no resistance and move freely with little pressure. Apply thin layer of 800 Grit lapping power to the frame rails and hand cycle the slide back and forth until parts move with out resistance. Wash or clean the parts with a soapy water and repeat till desired fit is accomplished. Repeat with Flitz Polishing compound and repeat cleaning process, then lubricate the parts as needed to prevent corrosion until finishing.


Other small parts may require minor fitting to ensure proper fit and function as needed. The use of a Dremel or other powered rotary tool is not recommended and all fitting/polishing should be done by hand with manual tools.


There are various books, videos and online resources to guide you through the process and we suggest educating yourself properly or having a competent gunsmith assist you with assembly.


Tools Required:


  • 1/16" Roll Punch (To Install Front Sight Pin)
  • 5/64" Allen Wrench (Install Rear Sight Set Screw)
  • Medium Flat Head Screwdriver (Install Grip Screws)
  • Small Flat Head Screwdriver (Install Magazine Release)
  • Brass Gunsmith Punch Set (Driving Various Pins or Detents)
  • 1911 Sight Pusher (Install Dovetail Sights) Using Hammer and Punch may damage the sight or slide and is not recommended
  • 1911 Grip Bushing Tool (Install Grip Bushings)
  • 800 Grit Lapping Compound (Lapping Frame to Slide)
  • Flitz Polishing Compound (Finishing Lapping Frame to Slide)
  • Dish Soap or Mild Degreaser ( For Cleaning Parts After Lapping)
  • Blue Thread Locker (Secure Grip Bushing Only and Small Set Screws, DO NOT THREAD LOCKER GRIP SCREWS!!!)
  • Small File Set (Remove burrs and other minor material for optimum fit)
  • CLP or Gun Oil (Lubricate Parts for Function and Corrosion Resistance)
  • Finish (Cerakote, Duracoat, Gun Blue or other Finish to Protect Metal Parts)
 
#22 · (Edited)
GlockLeg posted: "no dremel?"
Yup! One of my buddies [may he rest in peace] from the 'Nam became a fair to middling gunsmith. One of his famous sayings was: "More guns have been ruined with Dremel tools than anything else!" That being said, almost any surface [except barrels, I wouldn't weld on a barrel] on a 1911 can be welded up if the users Dremel went too far. But welding can create other problems.