Posted: 9/26/2008 9:34:04 AM EDT
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Would you pay $395 for a Argentine 1911. I know the magazine numbers do not match, but I am not sure about the frame and slide. It has the airforce emblem on it. Doesnt look to be refinished, but the barrel could be newer. What do these old colts go for? Whats the best way to tell if it is in good shape. I do not know if I would purchase it as an investment, or as a fixer upper. |
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Sistema Colt? yes, unless it's in real bad shape. Ballester Molina? maybe. Have to see it first, but probably. Make sure you know what it is. The Sistema Colt is an Argentine produced licensed copy of the M1911. The Ballester Molina, LOOKS like a 1911 on the outside, but has a different fire control system and no grip safety. |
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I beleive its a sistema. It did have a grip safety. It functioned fine. Operation felt smooth. The trigger was a bit spongie. The barrel was dirty, but seemed to be ok. I looked to see if the magzine numbers matched, they did not. I forgot to see if the frame matched the slide though. I do not beleive it has ever been refinished. Does that help? I also think the grips were origional, I am going back to the shop today for closer inspection. Is there anything i should be sure to look for. Im not real experienced in old 1911's yet. Thanks |
| Ok, numbers match. It is a sistema air force. Serial numbers put it from 1952 production. doesnt rattle. Barrel has no roll marks and does catch on the slide occasionally. finish is about 80%. Mag release needs some work. All markings are very crisp. Worth $395? |
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IBTOMBBOI1994AOP..... (In before the obligatory my buddy bought one in 1994 and only paid..............}  There were a bunch of those that came in a year or two ago and sold like hotcakes. After they dried up, the price went up to just about what you're talking here. I don't know about an investment but a lot of them have been transformed into nice looking shooters. I think O_P bought a couple and coated them with something and did pretty good. |