Posted: 4/23/2011 12:17:49 PM EDT
So, I've decided to take the plunge into the world of the 1911  I've been thinking that it might be fun to buy a relatively lower end 1911 from a reputable company (I'm thinking a Springfield Mil Spec) and upgrade it over time as I see fit. I figure this would keep my initial costs down, and it would be a lot of fun and give me a personal attachment to the pistol itself. Is there any reason I shouldn't do this? Would it be a better idea to simply get a nicer 1911 right off the bat, like a Springfield Operator? Thanks all!
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| I have just now dug into the 1911 world myself. I was going to do what you are mentioning but realized that in gunsmithing fees and aftermarket parts I might as well buy one that pretty much had everything that I wanted. Needless to say I now own two Colt 1911's and they are for the most part how I want them. They are pretty easy to work on but for me I like warranties and if something happens I can just send it in and be done with it. Hope that helps. |
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I think doing things in this order is good because you will get to know the platform better.(than if you buy a factory "souped up" gun)
Then when you buy a higher end gun down the road, you'll already have made the mistakes (that we all make learning) on a less expensive gun. Greg makes good points in his post, about higher cost in the end, but also getting exactly what you want. (this way is much more expensive in the end) To me a fixed up basic Colt or Springer is cooler than any of the "factory semi-customs" made by anybody. I'm not nockin' any factory semi-customs, because they are awesome. Just saying that there's something cool about a basic pistol fixed up for you. Good luck and let us know what you end up with. BD |
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Like has been said .. in the long run your probably going to spend more money on modifying one versus just buying a higher end gun with the options you want but on the other hand you will learn alot along the way.
I have done this several times now mainly with a quality used but a little abused gun purchased relatively cheap so I had some room to spend and not be totally upside down in the gun ... each one I've done I went a little farther into it till finally I got the nerve up to do a complete rebuild including fitting a new barrel. I personally would recommend it if you have the desire to learn more about the platform. |
Saving money in the long run was never really a goal of mine here, so much as having a gun specifically tailored to my needs. Most of the above statements are pretty much exactly what I was looking for, I just wanted to check in with those who know more about the subject than I do. Thanks guys! 
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Quoted:
Saving money in the long run was never really a goal of mine here, so much as having a gun specifically tailored to my needs. Most of the above statements are pretty much exactly what I was looking for, I just wanted to check in with those who know more about the subject than I do. Thanks guys! Now that I own two nice colts I do intend to buy a basic model like a GI Springfield and do to it what I want. It might even turn out better than what I have now. Good luck to you. |