[Vernice]

I am considering having Clark build my next .45. They can use Caspian frmes and slides which I like. They also can weld on a "slide guide" which I have never heard of. Can anyone here explain it to me? Thanks>

Vern

 

[RickB]

It's a small yoke welded to the far end of the dust cover. Two set-screws are positioned so that tightening them puts upward, and because they are angled, "centering" pressure on the slide. If the slide/frame fit loosens, a small adjustment on the screws tightens it again. I think the screws bear directly on the recoil spring tunnel of the slide, and there must be some sort of work done to the slide to suit. I think there is a thread going already, with some pics; search "Giles slide" or "Giles guide".
Edit: it's actually on that other 1911 forum.

 

[Magnumite]

If the frame and slide are oversized in the rail areas, that would negate the need for the slide guide. Just have Clark's fit it tight, but right.

 

[Kamerer]

If you are using Clark, and one of their barrels, consider using a ramped model if you ever have any desire to play with 45 super or possibly 460 Rowland. It's a much stronger design, and having the that cut in your frame makes hot loads almost worry free.

It does limit "drop-in" barrel choices if you want to change later, but a ramp can be pinned into the frame and you would never know the cut is there. I have one caspian with a ramped clark, now about to get fit for a 460 Rowland, and another with the cut but pinned-up at the moment.

If you have no desire for "more" power, it might not apply to you. But since you are going to them, it's worth discussing.

 

[mes228]

Clark

I've owned several custom 1911's. The most reliable, accurate 1911 I've owned was a Springfield worked over by Clark. That includes Baer and Wilson guns. The Clark would feed anything, all the time, and would shoot. I mean really, really shoot! It did not have the extra slide modification/package. Personally, I think Clark is the "best available". Don't see them much here in Virginia. If my new custom 1911 does not run, that's where I'll probably send it.

 

[AngelDeville]

I was wise enough to send my first 1911 to Clark many moons ago, and it worked so well I only recently purchased a second 1911.... and it's going to be heading to Clark as soon as I save up a few$$$$.

 

[Bladeandbarrel]

Clarks does not make fancy or even pretty guns. Their guns tend to be simple and less detailed than other makers but mechanically there are few better. I have owned a few and they worked like sewing machines.