which custom platform to go with?

1026 Views 4 Replies 4 Participants Last post by Dave Sample, Nov 10, 2001

eze

Discussion Starter · Nov 9, 2001

first I wanted a norinco but learned that since I live in CA that is out of the question. then I wanted colt sistema but heard that the hardness of the steel is not that good and now I just don't know what I should do.

I have just decided to get a 1911 and customize it. but I don't know what platform to go with. my dilemma is that since it is my first time I don't want spend to much money but if I would manage to do a good job I don't want the result to be mediocre because of the quality of the platform or if I do a mediocre job I don't want to be able to blame anything but the quality of my work.

also, I was planning to convert it to a 9mm but I have heard so many different claims about that. one article (in combat handguns i think) claims that all you need when it comes to parts are new barrel, bushing and springs. others clam that it is a whole lot more complicated than that.

should I go with a 9mm platform and if so, will this give me fewer and more expensive options?

I would appreciate any help I can get.
/erik

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John Forsyth

· #2 · Nov 9, 2001

Two questions:

What are you going to use it for?

How much money are you planning on spending?

For not much money, in relation to a custom built gun, you could get a SA Loaded in 9mm, a Colt 1991 in 9mm, and be set up fairly well. Another option is to buy a 1911 in .38 Super and have it rebarreled.

If the pistol is a .45 and you want to go to 9mm, I think you are asking for a lot of challenges. It can be done, all it takes is time and money.

------------------
John

"And by the way, Mr. Speaker, The Second Amendment is not for killing ducks and leaving Huey and Dewey and Louie without an aunt and uncle. It is for hunting politicians like (in) Grozney and in 1776, when they take your independence away".
Robert K. Dornen, U.S. Congressman. 1995

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eze

Discussion Starter · #3 · Nov 10, 2001

I can spend about $400-500.

I want to use it for target shooting only. so I guess maximum accuracy in the goal rather then 100% reliability.

I wouldn't mind a used gun as long as it doesn't effect the end result.

thanks Johon

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Howardk

· #4 · Nov 10, 2001

Eze,

Do yourself a favor and take John's advice. Apart from the barrel, bushing and springs, you'll also need a new extractor and ejector. The feed ramp is steeper on a 9mm frame, which means that you may have to recut the frame. By the time you're finished the costs could be well over $400-500 and then you won't be sure the gun is reliable. In the end, it's cheaper and safer to buy a new or used 1911 in 9mm.

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Dave Sample

· #5 · Nov 10, 2001

You should be able to find a nice used 9mm at a store or gun show that would be in your price range. I always recommend a Star 9mm but no one in the Forum seems to care for them. I just saw an add for them for $195.00 and was tempted to buy one. They are a 1911 style about 7/8ths the size of a government model 45 ACP. No grip safety and a slightly different trigger set up but they are priced right and fun to play with. I find them to be better than I can shoot them for accuracy and they are reliable out of the box. I prefer the 38 Super version but the 9mm is fun to tinker with. At least when you destroy one, you won't lose as much.

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