[h4444]

I'm torn.

Sitting in a case calling out to me is a Colt 1911 with a 52XXX series serial number. It is USGI, in fact an elderly gentleman brought the gun in on consignment to sell. Supposedly, he has had the gun the last 60 years or so....I know the guys at the shop well and trust that they aren't yanking my chain.

It was manufactured in 1913 from what I've seen. All original, but the finish is essentially gone. In fact it looks darn near like a stainless. There are two small patches of pitting on the right side of the slide,,,just a smidge in the front strap, and the original bore looks to be in pretty good shape. The gun comes with two other barrels he had purchased later on for matches.

She functions well, has a lot of character and has a $600.00 price tag.

Thoughts???

I'm torn, I'm not sure how I would raise the funds.....I would probably have to part with at least a rifle of mine or maybe one of my new 1911's, but I'm not sure I want to trade my new shooter on something I may just have around to look at.

With the finish in the shape its in would you shoot it if you bought it? I doubt I would want to risk it.

Help???

 

[Redzone]

It sounds like the owner fired it plenty. Even the earliest 1911s can fire well. You may need to replace springs though. And get a newer magazine for reliable feeding. And use the best condition barrel. Basically it is an oldie for a shooter or collector or both. I think you must decide if its worth parting with one of your guns for this one. I can tell you the triggers are heavy in unaltered condition.

 

[POINTERCOP]

If the manufacture date is 1913, and the price is as quoted, this is worth the investment just to HAVE. Plus it should be made shootable with minor mods. A find.

 

[Simian]

I would buy it just for the fact that $600 isn't bad for a shooter. There shouldn't be a problem with shooting it if it is in working order. It's tough buying as a collector unless you know what you are looking for. When I picked up my USGI I got it for around the same price and thought that even if it wasn't all original I am not really losing out. Besides it is a piece of history! Hope the rambling makes sense!

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Simian

NRA Life Member